Welcome back metal fans - this time we’re checking out US west coast power metal act Helion Prime, with their new release “Terror Of The Cybernetic Space Monster”, due out from AFM Records on August 31, 2018.
I’d heard the 2016 self-titled debut from Helion Prime, and thought it was an impressive effort, albeit something of a diamond-in-the-rough. The concept of a “science metal” band was one I found intriguing, and that amalgam of nerdy lyrical themes meshed well with the catchy, uplifting power metal Helion Prime offered up. Helion Prime’s new album “Terror Of The Cybernetic Space Monster” builds on that foundation and advances it significantly.
I’ll touch on a few highlights. After the spooky opening atmospheric “Failed Hypothesis”, the album segues into the dynamic crusher “A King Is Born”. This track is a brilliant intro, giving fans the origin-story of band mascot Saibot in dramatic and colorful fashion. New singer Sozos Michael exudes strength and passion on this one, giving the fantastic storyline a punch of emotion.
There are plenty of great tracks here, including the melodic “Spectrum” and charging “Bury The Sun”. Perhaps my favorite song is “Atlas Obscura” which delivers a killer verse and a catchy, flavorful chorus. Not all tracks are favs, but even those that don’t register top marks are well-crafted, and there’s certainly no filler to be found here.
The final song and album title track is the longest of the effort. A segmented, epic affair, this power metal tour-du-force provides the listener great pacing and storyline in the closing act.
As much of a fan as I am of former Helion Prime singer Heather Michelle – and I consider her one of the top up-and-coming singers in North American metal – after multiple listens I have come to the conclusion Sozo’s voice may be better suited to Helion Prime’s music. Mostly because his vocals so drip that European metal texture; you can hear that this guy fits comfortably in the tradition of power metal crooners like Michael Kiske and Roy Khan.
I continued to be blown away by the musicianship of Helion Prime guitarist Jason Ashcraft. In an era where too much is often viewed as mpt enough, Jason doesn’t have to overwhelm us with a barrage of riffs to display his axe prowess. It’s clear a lot of time and thought went into devising these tracks. This is considered composition and songwriting!
In summary, I’m very impressed with the quality of this new material from Helion Prime. This band is developing their sound, and seeming to be finding their niche. Two big thumbs up to Jason and the Helion Prime crew for an outstanding sophomore effort. One of the better metal albums so far this year and a must-purchase for power metal fans. Helion Prime’s “Terror Of The Cybernetic Space Monster” is available from AFM Records, via all the normal online outlets.