• 1
• 2
• 3
• 4
• 5

Helms Deep is yet another new band jumping into a pool already full of bands playing '80s-influenced, traditional heavy metal. Their approach is characterized by pumping guitars with an epic streak, so bands like Omen, Manowar, and Savatage make good reference points. The singer has a fine voice and can hit some really high notes when called upon. In some songs, his high wails sound a bit like Jon Oliva ("Serpent's Eye," "Treacherous Ways"), and on "Sorcery," when you combine them with the slower pacing and Jerry Fogle-esque guitar tone, I can almost hear Cirith Ungol. The songwriting is overall quite good, and I especially like when they back up a catchy chorus with some sweet twin-guitar work, like on "Fight or Flight." While Treacherous Ways, the band's debut album, didn't really blow me away, I think Helms Deep offers a lot to digest and I expect it to be a grower, so plan to invest a little more time soaking up the metallic goodness Helms Deep offers.