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Powerworld: Human Parasite

Melodic Hard Rock/Heavy Metal

4.25/5.0

SPV/Steamhammer
www.myspace.com/powerworld
www.powerworld.org
By Craig Hartranft,  10.31.2010

Some details have changed for Powerworld's sophomore release Human Parasite. Of first interest, the band formed by ex-Freedom Call bassist Ilker Ersin has a new label, SPV/Steamhammer, and a new vocalist, Andrew 'Mac' McDermott (ex-Sargent Fury, ex-Threshold). However, possibly of greater significance is the divergent musical style.

While their self-titled debut (2008) could have easily been pegged as German power metal, Human Parasite is metal with a more melodic hard rock vibe. You can hear this immediately in the opener Cleansed by Fire, then most significantly in the next song Stand Up. Later, the songs Caught in Your Web and King for a Day both have a metal edge, yet are informed by a true melodic accessibility, a near arena rock sound. Then songs like Human Parasite, Children of the Future, and especially Tame You Demons (best track) invoke a pure melodic heavy metal sound, but turn on that easy and clever rock groove (without losing one bit of that aforementioned edge.) Frankly, one could suggest the latter one third to one half of this disc has a more 'metal' side. But that argument is in the ear of the listener.

Finally, throughout the musicianship is impressive, with strong performances making Human Parasite a well-rounded effort by all. Yet, large kudos must go to Mac McDermott whose significant versatility, maturity, and enthusiasm can be heard across the entire disc.

Though recognizably different in some ways from their debut, Powerworld's Human Parasite is definitely a greater work, showing greater musical maturity and accessibility. Quite recommended!

Though recognizably different in some ways from their debut, Powerworld's Human Parasite is definitely a greater work, showing greater musical maturity and accessibility.

Formed in 1999 by singer, songwriter, producer, and multi-instrumentalist Erik Martensson, Sweden's Eclipse is well into their third decade of making music. In the recent past, their recordings and reputation have ... [ Read More ]