Vibrantly crafted melodic progressive power metal - A review of Signum Regis' The Seal of a New World

A good friend of mine recommended Signum Regis to me and compared their style to Avantasia's early works. The band photo rather seems to suggest this band is imitating Sabaton. Both thoughts aren't exactly correct as Signum Regis offers melodic but gritty power metal with a few minor progressive influences in the key of genre heavyweights like Helloween. The Seal of a New World doesn't offer anything new but has been crafted with skills, energy and creativity.

The duels between guitars and keyboards are epic, melodic and technically appealing as they manage to add both energy and intellectualism. The rhythm section is powerful, precise and thunderous but could even take some more space. New Brazilian singer Jota Fortinho sounds energetic, juvenile and vibrant as he blends in very well. This line-up should develop, grow and stick together. One should note the intriguing lyrics and the outstanding cover artwork that underline the quality of this release.

The song writing is focused and never getting overwhelming but at times slightly predictable and repetitive with its genre tropes. The tracks take some time until they are actually stuck on your mind. Sometimes, it feels that Signum Regis hasn't found its very own style yet but a consistent line-up might improve things. Their Chinese colleagues Barque of Dante have very similar challenges. The production is a little bit direct and loud at times but invites to crank up the volume and let your neighbours discover some good new music.

Progressive power metal fans should definitely give Signum Regis a chance as this productive group from Slovakia has constantly been releasing acclaimed genre efforts for more than a decade now. Occasional listeners of this type of music should try out genre heavyweights like Galneryus first and support Signum Regis if they end up feeling hungry for more. The group has lots of potential and might exploit it to the fullest with better press work, a more influential label and especially a stable line-up.

Final rating: 75%