Traditional heavy metal with a rough side note - A review of Fate Breaks Dawn's Fate Breaks Dawn

Fate Breaks Dawn is a young independent heavy metal quartet from New York. Some of its members have been involved with genre giants like Ross the Boss, Riot V and Mike LePond's Silent Assassins. The band's self-titled extended play offers five energetic heavy metal tracks inspired by genre veterans such as Judas Priest and its albums of the late eighties and early nineties.

The most remarkable thing about this release are the strong vocals. Versatile drummer and lead vocalist Mike Cotoia convinces both in the lower registers and in the high-pitched screams as he gives the songs charismatic energy. The backing vocals by bassist Michael J. Mahoney provide even more passion. Some fierce growls at the right moments further add atmosphere and diversity.

The song writing refers to traditional heavy metal standards with a few speed metal passages. Those who are referring to the group as power or thrash metal band are obviously entitled to their opinion but I would disagree. The band's style isn't catchy and melodic enough to qualify as European power metal or fierce and galloping enough to be described as American power metal. Their style isn't as fast and relentless as thrash metal either. What we get here is a convincing contemporary interpretation of classic heavy metal trademarks.

The band shows plenty of potential but the songwriting is a little bit generic. The songs are lacking infectious choruses, memorable melodies or surprising twists. This release is solid as first strike but the quartet has plenty of room for improvement.

In the end, Fate Breaks Dawn's self-titled debut extended play should please fans of traditional heavy metal. It should particularly appeal to those who are looking for traditional trademarks with a rough and juvenile side note. The contemporary interpretation with diversified vocals marks the quartet's greatest strength to stand out among so many other heavy metal revival bands.

Final rating: 70%