Pagan Reign 'Gates of Hell'
Self Released, 2002
Gloon:
Gates of Hell is the debut full length release from Irish thrash/death-rockers Pagan Reign, and sees them further develop and evolve their sound from their 98 demo 'Bloody Memories'. The first thing of note is the new vocal attack, which now incorporates black metal rasps and more depressive wails than the almost hardcore, traditional rock yell of their earlier recording. This for the most part does add some more depth and variety to the mix however in my opinion it sounds a little off. The vocals used on 'Bloody Memories' suited the music and complimented the attitude being created, whereas the rasps and softly sung passages on GOH seem in contrast to their death/rock style. Quality wise there are some good tracks on offer, which highlight Pagan Reign's skill and song writing ability. 'Force of Will' sounds like the immediate flagship to the album and the almost ballad 'Worth Hating For...' shows their flare for the soft as well as the hard. Unfortunately where GOH falls down is in the production stakes, which is tiny and really hampers and works against what the boys have tried to do on this release. Apart from this Pagan Reign show a lot of promise and originality, and GOH is more than worthy of a second glance. Whack it on, crack a frothy and rock your day away, I know I did.
Favourite Tracks: Force of Will, Dust to Dust, Worth Hating For...
Rating: 6.5/10 |
