Pulver - Kings Under The Sand

This is a nice album that starts off with some Iron Maiden style riffage that has a cool “bluesy” edge to it. There’s nothing all that complicated here, but the approach the band takes regarding the guitars is a great way to keep things fresh. To some it might sound dated and stale but, considering the number of bands who play this style of metal, Pulver seem to keep things simple yet noble with a great respect for the art in general. This band outshines a great deal of others for this fact alone. The solo work is pretty good as well. They aren’t extremely long but just enough to serve their purpose without sounding like they are trying to cram them down the listener’s throats. Oddly enough, there is a certain subtlety to them which causes the continuity and fluency of the guitars to be made whole.

The drum work isn’t that bad either. It does seem to be off a little at times and, to me, the snare sounds a little low, but all in all the style is fitting for this type of material. Despite this minor flaw, the ability of the drummer is without doubt and future releases should reflect this. The vocals are somewhat unique as they are not power, traditional, or even thrash style. It’s more like the styles of Nevermore, Iced Earth, Realm, and Dark Angel all mixed together. Presented in such a haunting fashion, it is the vocals that puts the cherry on top for this release. There have been vocalists who sound similar, but I don’t recall ever hearing someone quite like this.

This release was put out by Gates Of Hell Records and I would recommend it to anyone into the aforementioned genres or bands. Even if you’re into the more the more extreme forms of metal, I would still encourage you to give this band and album a chance. It embodies the true essence of metal. How it was, how it was, and how it always will be. The elements from the power and traditional forms compliment one another greatly and the edginess of the vocals really makes the statement as to the bands artistry and dedication to the genre.

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1. Rising
2. Phantom Hawk
3. Blacksmith's Lament
4. Kings Under The Sand
5. Qarînah
6. Warrior Caste
7. Alpha Omega
8. Curse Of The Pharaoh