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Audiovision: Focus

Melodic/Power/Heavy Metal

Rating: 4.0/5.0

Ulterium Records
www.myspace.com/audiovisionsweden
www.ulterium-records.com
Review: Craig Hartranft,  04.11.2010

Christian Rivel (Narnia, Divinefire) is hardly the one to stop still; he's always got something going down. In 2005, Rivel established Audiovision (Kansas reference?) as a side project from Narnia. With the demise of Narnia and Divinefire, Rivel surfaces with Focus, Audiovision's sophomore release. Expect a sometimes heavier version, but no less melodic, version of Narnia. Focus is more power metal with Rivel sounding more like Ronnie James Dio in his prime in the Eighties. With his versatile vocals, Rivel is bolstered by a grand supporting cast which makes this a bombastic and entertaining melodic hard rock and heavy metal work. As a sampling, Invitation, The Son Will Come, the subtle Fruit of Love, and the majestic The Way are blistering and enthralling works that entertain and satisfy.

Additionally, without bias, compromise, or equivocation, Christian Rivel displays his Christian faith in every song. Mr. Rivel has always been authentic about his allegiance to Jesus Christ, the Lord and Savior of the world. This is against other modern bands, mostly American, who obscure their Christian faith (if it really is) in nebulous self-centered lyrics and hardcore metal. Mr. Rivel has the unique ability to combine exciting traditional melodic metal and rock with true Christian faith. For this he is to be commended.

But this 'begs the question.' Can heavy metal and Christianity coexist? Absolutely. Heavy metal has always been a stumbling block, offensive to most. This is just like the Gospel of Jesus Christ: offensive to most everyone, all that do not seek the Truth. Christian Rivel's Audiovison is solid melodic metal with a vibrant message. Can you handle it? Highly recommended!

Note: All Amazon advertising in this review first benefits the artist, then Craig Hartranft also receives a residual. Click, and thanks for your support.

Christian Rivel's side project Audiovision, and the sophomore effort Focus is solid melodic metal, with a definitive and eternal message.

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