Formed way back in 2001 in Sweden, this band has just gained worldwide release for their debut album. Having already been released in Sweden in February this year (reaching #36 in the charts) its clear to see and also upon listening to this album that there is an air of excitement around this band.
The opening track ‘Shadows’ immediately has me drawn in. It’s not so much the labels tag of melodic power metal, but this is simply good music, with a few progressive arrangements. This leans towards the sound of Queensryche between their two most commercially successful albums (Operation Mindcrime and Empire) and Andi Deris period Helloween. Vocalist Samuel Nymen is quite something; there is powerful, passionate and competent delivery of every line. When this is backed with the slight progressive/epic arrangements these are good things to be had. ‘I Am’ provides another stab at accomplished metal with a strong melody running throughout. Although the vocal register is high, there is no weakness normally associated with male vocals trying to bite off more than they can chew.
Production is pretty solid too; this was handled by Tobias Lindell (mixing duties) famous for his work with Mustasch and currently recording the new Europe album. ‘Human Nature’ brings out some great riffs from Henrik Stenroos, in fact all the music is pretty tight and metal to the bone with plenty of variations of drumming patterns; thankfully not the standard simple rhythms that some bands achieve. This album I feel would sit well with fans of Dream Theater and all similar bands, I only state DT because they are the most recognisable name, there are other bands out there who are more comparable. ‘Dreamers and Fools’ ups the tempo to more Euro Power Metal with some high-pitched vocals on the chorus that builds with each minute. The epic glory that is laid down on this track takes me back to when I first heard ‘Heaven Can Wait’ by Gamma Ray.
Not to take anything away from Manimal (did the name come from the WASP track?) there are comparisons to be had, but the album does make it through on its own merits. These are talented musicians with some excellent execution of thoughtful arrangements and obvious hero worship to some great bands. This is a well-rounded album of metal. For the first time in a long time, I could not listen to this album whilst trying to work, I had to stop what I was doing and listen to this on its own, it grabbed by attention so much. I am sure that it will be the same for you.
http://www.manimal.se
http://www.myspace.com/manimalsweden
http://www.afm-records.de
