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March 2023

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Rockford Heroes, The: Edge of the Silverthorn

Melodic Hard Rock/AOR

4.5/5.0

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Unsigned / Self-released / Free Download
by Craig Hartranft,  02.21.2013

The Rockford Heroes was created by guitarist Jonas Arvidsson, of the now defunct metal band VII Gates, and vocalist Dan Hultstrand. After two EPs the band releases their first long player, Edge of the Silverthorn. While not wishing to pigeon-hole the Heroes, the band generally draws their sound classic melodic hard rock and metal across the last several decades.

The Rockford Heroes:: one hand in pocket.

Essentially, Edge of the Silverthorn is loaded with strong melodies, hooks, and groove. This formula is spiced by strong clean vocals and ripping guitar work from Arvidsson, and supported by a tight rhythm section. Here and there they add a touch of piano and synths. It's the fundamentals, and that's what makes the album sound great.

Then there's two sides to Edge of the Silverthorn. Early, in the first three songs, The Rockford Heroes lean more to the AOR side of melodic hard rock. The signature song in this gathering, and possibly for the entire album, is No Reason to Believe, as soaring arena anthem. The following five songs are definitely heavier, nearing the metal side of things, yet without losing the ear-friendly catchiness and groove that the AOR undercurrent provides. Gold Encircles the Altar defines this. But for a pure barn burner, the short Capricious Arrows rushes along with both heaviness and speed. If there's a flaw it's that the album is too short; even with eight songs, it clocks in at only 37 minutes. However, this can be easily overlooked because you can download the entire Edge of the Silverthorn album for free at the band's website. I encourage you to do so. You won't be disappointed. Very recommended.

With Edge of the Silverthorn, The Rockford Heroes mine the best of melodic hard rock and metal, wrap it up it an AOR package, and deliver an entertaining album. Even better, you can download it for free. So do it.

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Formed 23 years ago, Finland's Excalion has had a turbulent musical career. Before releasing a trio of albums between 2005 and 2010, they had personnel changes. Currently, only the drummer and keyboard ... [ Read More ]