• Showcasing numerous melodic heavy metal facets - A review of Phaeton's ''The Sign of the Curse''

    Phaeton - The Sign of the Curse (2017)

    Phaeton is another Russian quartet that keeps the spirit of heavy metal alive. While the genre is overlooked or even neglected in other countries, Russia has quite a few young heavy metal bands influenced by Russian pioneer groups like Aria, Black Coffee and Legion. Phaeton certainly doesn't reinvent the genre with The Sign of the Curse but the band plays with genuine passion and focuses on eight consistent tracks without any lengths.

    The record kicks off brilliantly with the rhythmic stomper ''Adrenaline'' that does its name justice. It's refreshing these days to open a record with a straightforward tune that gets to the point without unnecessary introductions or overtures. The song represents everything classic heavy metal should be about: a vivid rhythm section with tight drum play and an audible bass guitar, powerful guitar riffs, elaborate guitar solos, melodic clean vocals and epic lyrics. 

    The second tune ''Towards Destiny'' is slightly slower and more epic and might have the most memorable guitar melodies and the strongest chorus on this output. This song wouldn't be out of place on any classic Aria record. The more you listen to this song and the album in general, the more you will get into the songs and remember them which underlines the efficient songwriting.

    ''Following the Dream'' comes around with dreamy keyboard melodies before it evolves into a highly melodic track with great guitar melodies and soothing vocals. The song shows close affinity with the European power metal genre and could also come from Stratovarius even though the galloping main riff is clearly inspired by Iron Maiden. This mixture works very well and the song proves that one single appropriate longer overture per record can actually be efficient.

    The closing ballad ''Phantom Dream'' might be too saccharine for heavy metal purists and rather reminds me of romantic hard rock ballads in the key of Bonfire. However, the piano play and the keyboards are played emotionally and skillfully while the vocals are performed with emotion and inspiration. It's not a bad idea to close a record on a smooth note, especially since the record opens with a bang.

    In just eight songs, Phaeton shows many different facets of the heavy metal genre and proves that it is still relevant nowadays. The Sign of the Curse is emotional, entertaining, inspired and a true hidden gem for melodic heavy metal fans. The Russian lyrics and vocals add even more authenticity to the release. This album clearly is one of the best genre releases this year and one should give this quartet a chance and keep an eye on it.

    Final rating: 78%

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