Italian power metal band White Skull, now on their tenth studio album, has had a tumultuous journey in the music scene. Initially releasing albums on Underground Symphony, their breakthrough came with the 1999 release “Tales from the North” on Nuclear Blast. The band’s evolution continued with subsequent albums, facing challenges to break into the top tier of power metal bands. Their partnership with Dragonheart Records has brought stability over the past decade, but their latest album “Will of the Strong” may not be enough to attract new devoted followers.
Featuring twelve tracks, “Will of the Strong” showcases White Skull’s signature bombastic power/heavy metal style, characterized by gritty vocals and conventional musical elements. Lead guitarist Danilo Bar shines with flashy arpeggio solos, adding depth to tracks like “Grace O’Malley” and the title track. Keyboardist Alessandro Muscio contributes lightning-fast heroics in “Lady of Hope,” incorporating Italian language narrative passages and Gamma Ray-inspired hooks.
However, a key drawback of the album lies in the repetitive double kick tempos that make many of the faster songs sound alike. Federica De Boni’s vocals, though possessing a gritty quality, sometimes lack the necessary charisma, as evident in tracks like “Metal Indian.” The standout track “Warrior Spirit” breaks this monotony with its diverse dynamics, blending Far Eastern influences and acoustic elements into a compelling anthem.
White Skull’s musical proficiency is undeniable, but as they delve deeper into their career, there is a call for more diversity in their power metal approach. While “Will of the Strong” may appeal to fans of bands like Gamma Ray, there is room for growth and exploration within White Skull’s sound. Moving away from emulating bands like Rhapsody, the band has the potential to carve out a unique identity in the power metal landscape.
Ultimately, White Skull’s latest offering may not revolutionize the genre, but it caters to existing fans and those who appreciate classic power metal conventions. As the band continues to refine their craft, there is hope for them to expand their reach and captivate a broader audience with their future releases.
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