Axe Crazy is a traditional heavy
metal/speed metal group that hails from Poland (and is named after one of the
best NWOBHM songs ever, from the excellent band Jaguar). “Ride On The Night” is
their first full-length album, and is highly likely to appeal to fans of bands
like Skull Fist, Enforcer, and Axxion. Despite the sub-2 minute intro being a
galloping affair that worships Iron Maiden, most of this record is a high-speed
offering with tons of energy and enthusiasm. The guitar playing is certainly
flashy, though it doesn’t offer quite the same level of musicianship as many of
the aforementioned newer bands. Nevertheless, there is a lot of shredding
throughout “Ride On The Night”, even if the harmonized sections don’t feel quite
as tight.
The primary barrier for most listeners will
be Michael Skotnicki’s vocals. He’s a decent singer, and can offer an
impressive high-pitched wail, but his accent is fairly thick. This isn’t a
problem at all, but it is an acquired taste, and will likely take a few listens
to appreciate. In the speedier tracks, he fits in well, but it is difficult for
him to carry a more vocally driven song. Fortunately, Axe Crazy tends to use a
lot of speed. Some of these songs even
delve into the power metal realm at times with their use of melody. “Guardians
of the Light”, for example, has some great lead guitar lines underneath
Skotnicki’s singing at certain parts of the song, and the result is a track
that instantly stands out.
Upon first glance at the track titles, the
immediate standouts would be “Astral Tales Part 1 (Lost In Space)” and “Astral
Tales Part 2 (Star Force)”. To the band’s credit, they’re both very enjoyable
songs that do have a slight otherworldly feel to them, and the unique lyrical
theme sets them apart from many of their peers. But the true standout is “Magic
Power”, which is an atmospheric rocker driven by plenty of melodic leads. The
track opens with an excellent guitar solo atop some cleaner playing that sets
the stage for the epic melodies that dominate the song.
“Ride On The Night” is not a record for
those in need of innovation, but it certainly can’t be accused of copying one
particular band (especially not the one Axe Crazy is named after). There are
more than a few instances where the band does something just a bit different,
and even if this album doesn’t quite compete with the bands at the forefront
of traditional heavy metal, it is still a very competent and enjoyable release.
The constant charging pace results in an electric record that never once gets
boring. For this reason alone, “Ride On The Night” is a worthy purchase!
Highlights
"Guardians Of The Light"
"Astral Tales Part 1 (Lost In Space"
"Magic Power"
Final Rating
3.9/5 or 78%.
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