British legends Praying Mantis were always a part of the original NWOBHM scene, even though they were a touch on the lighter side of things when compared to contemporaries like Iron Maiden and Saxon etc. Much like Raven and Elixir, they never got the recognition they deserved in the UK, so they concentrated their efforts in Japan and the Far East. In more recent times, appearances at Bloodstock and the British Steel Festivals, both in 2007, confirmed their active status and gave everyone a chance to be proven wrong; these guys are gifted, make no mistake about it.
Opening tune ‘In Time’ is laden with melody and hooks all over the place. There is a mature, precise element to the song. Mike Freeland’s vocals are pretty much the best out there when you talk about melodic rock singers; powerful, soulful and oozing charisma. Some listeners will compare this to the melodic power metal that is out their in the market, I suppose this could be true, but then listen to the arrangement, there is much more going on. Still, this would appeal to melodic power metal fans to be fair and perhaps this is a marketing tool that could be used to good advantage (although not all of the album would hold true to this as its missing the constant ‘chugging’ palm muted guitar rhythm).
The guitar tone whilst being the lighter side of heavy, is also warming. That can certainly be proven during ‘Restless Heart’ that also amplifies a wonderful vocal melody leading into the chorus, and then there is the chorus itself; if you don’t feel like singing along to this then you must have had a lobotomy! Every note that is expelled is played with passion and a fulfilling sense of accomplishment. I was not expecting this from the album at all. ‘So High’ gets a little high octane, and I am wondering how high the vocals can go, I feel Mike will explode! The tune then belts away into a classic rocking statement with some blistering guitar fills and a cracking guitar solo, coupled with a great riff at the end of the solo. The basis of the album is simply strong arrangements, harmonizing toned guitars and a vocal range and melody that most singers would only dream of being able to produce; just check out the ballad ‘Turn the Tide’.
Sometimes albums come along that blow you away and discredit previous misconceptions of what a band will sound like with their latest release. This is a top quality album release from a severely underestimated band that deserves much more recognition for their efforts. ‘Sanctuary’ will surely move this bands profile into the limelight once again in Europe (and worldwide), keep an eye out for planned live shows coming this year and show your support to this band and buy this album.
http://www.praying-mantis.com
http://www.myspace.com/prayingmantisrock
http://www.frontiers.it
