Hrom – Legends of Powerheart Part II (Harmony of Harmonies Power Metal)
Hmm it seems I must take a former opinion back, though I think maybe not? I can’t remember much other than the fact that I’ve ripped on power metal for years because few can make it work. The reasons are too varied to consider in full here, but to be brief you’ve got the overemphasis on fantasy and sci-fi themes, the ridiculous costumes, the stale quasi-poetic vocals, you know the symptoms. Power metal is a disease. But sometimes it’s the opposite of disease, whatever that is exactly. I guess it’s Hrom?
Legends of Powerheart: Part II is obviously the second in what might be eventually a longer series, and apparently there’s some connecting story. The lyrics are dense, and far more poetic than the usual power metal puke, so thankfully you’ll only notice the beautiful harmonics and catch a few words now and then. Thus, okay, they’ve already succeeded in breaking the mold. Following this, the sound is the next important detail, and perhaps the most, for power metal tends to surround itself in epicness to the point of smothering the listener and turning them into a full-time LARP fanatic. Hrom, however, are more subdued yet craft with conviction, focusing on harmony and creating a sound reminiscent of 8-bit RPGs, yet it’s metal. They’re also not afraid to work with minimalistic approaches, creating a thoroughly enjoyable listen that refuses to budge and thus never bores. More pls.
Written by Stanley, Devourer of Souls
Hrom – Legends of Powerheart: Part II
Hoove Child Records, Independent
Cover Art: Allison Kay
4.5 / 5
