Neon Fly
Clever Disguise

March 2009
Released: 2009, Independent
Rating: 4.0/5
Reviewer: Stu Occupier

Formed last year as the brainchild of guitarist Frederick Thunder drawing on classic rock influences from Led Zeppelin to Whitesnake and top European power metal bands Helloween and EdGuy, joined by some very talented musicians including Tamas Csermez known for his Geddy Lee impressions in the band ‘Permanent Faves’ and drummer Mauricio Chamucero who played on Dragonforce’s album Sonic Firestorm. This debut mini album also features a guest vocal from Tony Mills (TNT/Shy).

Quite stunning start, sure it’s pure Maiden inspired power metal with some great keyboard work (keyboardist is not credited for some reason), atmospheric guitar work and solid vocals, really catchy lyrics as well “I wish I could see the world I have painted” I can imagine 200 voices singing that with fists in the air!

“I think I saw a UFO” may have slightly silly lyrics about Elvis being alive but the song just kicks and is typical driving metal with some excellent riff work going on.

The last track “Ship With No Sails” starts with and is punctuated throughout with a great bass line, easily the best track here showing their progressive influences with some great timing changes, soaring vocals and acoustic guitar, sort of Opeth meets Helloween.

This may only be five tracks but each of them are perfectly executed with a style that you don’t normally associate with home grown power metal. By far one of the best discs I have heard in a long time and I would suggest that you check them out, the potential here is big, really big.

RECOMMENDED TRACKS: “I Think I Saw A UFO”, ”Ship With No Sails”.