Review by Paul Hutchings for MPM
For fans of power metal, I’m sure that the sixth album by the Italians will be another addition to be filed under the word ‘Epic’. For there is a feel of grandeur and pomp about their sixth album from the opening track Lightning in the Sky through to the title track that closes this release.
Taking a slightly darker approach than previous albums, there is still a buoyancy in their playing which sits as a key ingredient to any band playing this genre to a standard necessary to sit in the top tiers. And whilst Frozen Crown are not yet rubbing shoulders with the likes of Helloween and Blind Guardian, there is an assured quality that certainly puts them not that far behind.
Much of this is due to the power of drummer Niso Tomasini who anchors every track with an assured performance. The variation in Giada ‘Jade’ Etro’s singing also provides plenty of interest. Her change in tone and delivery during the opening trio of tracks, for example, sees her powerful clean vocals lead the harmonies of Federico Mondelli and Francesco Zof in classic choral style.
Iris is a sneaky cover of the 1998 hit by the Goo Goo Dolls. A curve ball to be sure but delivered in a way that would lead you to believe it’s one of Frozen Crown’s own compositions if you didn’t know.
Epic storytelling is of course, the realm of Power Metal bands, and Frozen Crown ensure that the blueprint is faithfully followed. Winter Hearts races along at breakneck speed, a mix of Jade’s soaring vocals and some contrasting gruff roars providing everything that you could want.
Grab your sword for a good singalong throughout this album. There’s a slower, melancholic song in River of Time, whilst Through the Fire provides fans opportunity to really give it some gusto. And the title track sees further vocal duels between Jade and Federico, in an all-out aural assault that concludes an album that will delight Frozen Crown fans. Will it pull in additional interest is up to debate of course. One of the more niche genres in the UK, this is an album that will no doubt rouse the legions of across European lands. But, if you want your power metal crafted and brilliantly played, look no further than The Legend of the Six Kings, for it ticks every box.
