Battleroar
Age of Chaos

April 2006
Released: 2005, Black Lotus Records
Rating: 3.0/5
Reviewer: MetalChick

This is another interesting band from Greece. They bring forth what they call True Epic Metal, centering their songs around the fantasy world of warriors in battle and dragons and all that kind of Lord of the Rings type of thing, complete with samples of swords clanging and dragon growls. It has taken a few listens for me to get into it, but I’m starting to see some shining moments in what at first felt like nothing special.



I’m reminded strongly of Iced Earth’s NIGHT OF THE STORMRIDER. It has that somewhat primitive production sound and vocals that aren’t quite up to par. All you have to do is listen to “Vampire Killer” and you will hear the similarities. It is a strong song, though, with heavy riffs and ear-catching melodies. “Siegecraft” follows in that same fashion, but also has a cool vocal melody in the main chorus that’s pretty strong.



It’s the vocals that really do them in, however. He’s one of those singers that’s so close to being on key, but just doesn’t make it 100% of the time. The song “Calm Before the Storm” is indeed the strongest on the album as it is almost entirely instrumental. It’s a shame because I think Battleroar could really go places if they had a frontman as strong as the instrumentalists. I hope they continue forward with new albums, and I’ll definitely be there to check them out again.