Well, if this isn't quintessential Snakepit-stuff, I don't know what is! There's a Timelord-thread on the German board already, so let me take this opportunity to tell a few English-only people here about this excellent US-band from Virginia who have released their demo 'Dawn of dissent' just recently. Don't be put off by the no budget cover/packaging, because the six tracks on this CD-R put most official label releases to shame. 'Dawn of dissent', 'Aeons calling', 'Rebellion' (the bonus track on this disc), 'Sirens', 'The alchemist' and 'Cult of the dead' are prime examples of guitar-driven US power metal, laced with loads of technical wizardry (some amazing drum accents and double bass-kicking immediately command attention). Vocalist Matt Aub (who doubles on the axe with Aaron Richert) is in a league all his own, easily mastering mid- to high-range and never once letting the energy and aggression level drop off. The sixth and last tune on this killer demo is called 'Cult of the dead' and damn, it's an instant classic!
What amazes me most is the sheer intensity of these songs; these guys are more than just good musicians: they know how to write and fine-tune their writing. Especially followers of the 80s Texas metal scene will love this band to death - it's like bits of Helstar and Juggernaut (technical riffing, eye/ear for intricate details) are paired with vintage Vicious Rumors/Steel Prophet (melodies/harmonies). If, on their forthcoming full-length, they don't overdo the harmony choruses and keep those rough edges production-wise, Timelord should be capable of generating enthusiastic reactions across several underground niches.
And if this short review sounds suspiciously euphoric to you: order this demo and be convinced of its many qualities. This is major league metal. Spread the word on Timelord!
Check 'em out at MySpace:
<a href='http://www.myspace.com/timelordband' target='_blank'>Timelord</a>
P.S.
The bonus track 'Rebellion', especially, is a ripper that would've made a classic tune on any vintage Toxik/Helstar/Steel Prophet-album.
The full-length debut, entitled 'Regeneration', is slated for a fall 2006 release.