EDGUY

Tinnitus Sanctus

Nuclear Blast/ CD

The previous German stars’ album „Rocket Ride” left many fans with somehow mixed feelings. EDGUY's music shifted from the symphonic power metal to definitely more hard rock oriented sound. So some long time followers missed that classic band's approach, Fortunately the number of those who appreciated the quality of band's work was much bigger, so Tobias Sammet and his comrades have risen to that indeed uneasy challenge.

„Tinnitus Sanctus” is another EDGUY's step on the path to rock'n'roll hall of fame. The absolute highlight of this album is Sammet's work. Tobias once again proved that he's one of the most talented singers of the modern scene. He left his sweet, power metal voice. and now he's a pure rock singer who may be compared to such a legendary giants like Bruce Dickinson or Bon Scott. Vocal lines and harmonies on that record are those of the world class.

From the very beginning of „Ministry of Saint” - which opens with keyboard sound reminding of DEEP PURPLE – to the end of humorous „Aren't You A Little Pervert, Too?” this guy shows how huge is spectrum of his vocal abilities and range of emotions carried with his voice.The other musicians' work is on a decent level, too. But of course there's no reason to sing their praises. Guitar solos are far from the most amazing works of famous shredders' but there's also nothing to complain about. The main factor which determines the quality of that recordings is a songwriting. We have eleven high-quality rock anthems. „Ministry of Sounds” is a solid rocker with ultracatchy chorus. Perfect opener I must say. Mid-tempo „Sex Fire Religion” with it's multitracked chorus – another band's trade mark – and a little DIO touch in the verse – Sammet's voice - continues the high quality work. „Pride of Creation” is more optimistic and reminds me a little of 80's. A perfect example of song that may make you smile. „Nine Lives” with another bombastic chorus is a straight ahead driving rock song with a melodic touch. The connection with band's past is more alive here. 'Wake Up Dreaming Black” - is it only me thinking of NEVERMORE right now ;) - and „Dragonfly” - that opens almost like BON JOVI's song - are another two hard rockers with melodies that won't get out of your head for a long time. „Thorn Without a Rose” a ballad which continues the work of such a tears' drawers like POISON or WHITE LIOON is followed by „9-2-9” a song that will force you to sing with Sammet. „Speedhoven” reminds a little of „Judas At The Opera” with it's more operatic and complex form. „Dead or Rock” kicks off almost like AC/DC classic, and makes me think that those guys too all that was best in hard rock and heavy metal history and mixed it up with their own touch of classy approach.

It'd be also a crime not to emphasize Sascha Paeth's organic and dynamic production that shines brigthly throughout the whole record. Good job. So finally we have a very solid release. I suggest to give it a chance even if you’re not the boggest hard’n’heavy fan in the neighbourhood. But if you like high quality, commercial – who cares? - melodic hard rock/metal, I'm sure you will be kicked in the ass by those talented guys.

9/12