Search - Byrd :: Anthem

"THE" METAL ALBUM OF 2002

08/26/2002

(5 out of 5 stars)

"Ex Fifth Angel/Atlantis Rising guitarist James Byrd returns under the moniker 'Byrd' for his second release in two years - ANTHEM. The album sees Byrd retain the talented line up of vocalist Michael Flatters and multi-instrumentalist Brian Hutchinson that worked to stunning effect on last years 'Flying Beyond The 9'. 'Anthem' sees the basic symphonic metal approach of 'Flying Beyond The 9 built upon with more guitars, aggression and a wider range of styles. This is one very powerful album with a production that makes everything crystal clear, bombastic and sonically pleasing. The basic style of the album can be seen as a mix of Byrd's trademark virtuoso guitar and overall sound as heard on 'Crimes Of Virtuosity' and 'Flying Beyond The 9', but taken to the next level. 'Anthem' displays a very cohesive set of songs than all work incredibly well as one sonic movement. Yet set the cd player to random and you are guaranteed a treat wherever it stops, this album really is that good. There are a lot of musical styles on the album which range from rampant neo-classical 'Only Love', to Deep Purple/Rainbow esque rockers 'Messages From Home', to AOR style balladry 'Some Day' . This is then completely mixed up by the Pomp attack of 'Omen', and full on metal brutality of 'Killing Machine'. There really is something for all rock fans no matter what your taste in sub genres. On the guitar front Byrd has outdone himself again. His tone is the clearest it has been and whilst showing restraint on the solo front, there are enough fretboard adventures to please the most hardcore guitar nut. This is album is certainly worthy of a purchase, and with the right record company promotion has the quality to see Byrd head from the underground to the major rock appeal. 'Anthem' shows that James Byrd is one of todays most talented writers and performers so do yourself a favour and check 'Anthem' out a.s.a.p."