Review by Stephen Pedicino
Ride the Sky……that name sounds familiar for some reason. Ah, yes!!! Track number seven from the debut album of the legendary Helloween!!! (Only a true dork would IMMEDIATELY make that connection). Incidentally, we have in this lineup former Helloween drummer Uli Kusch, who has been quite the whore in the metal community with his involvement in a plethora of other bands. And I mean whore in a good way!!! Ok……how about promiscuously talented musician?
New Protection begins not with a bang, but also not with a whimper. The opening title track is crisp but just lacks that certain oomph that I prefer to have with power metal. Next up is “A Smile from Heavens Eye,” a beautiful song featuring some majestically multi-layered keyboards. The music complements the title very well as it bears that type of uplifting power metal vibe which always lays a smile on my face. A good, powerful and melodic song that I’m sure most will find accessible.
“The Prince of Darkness” adds a boost of heaviness by featuring some double bass and stronger, chunkier guitars. “Break the Chains,” a more progressive song, also represents some darker elements of the album. One could draw a resemblance towards early Symphony X here. Keyboards are used heavily throughout the entire record, so if you’re a Motorhead/Slayer purist you might be turned off here. They are mostly ambient but some pretty impressive solos will cut their way through your speakers as well.
Ride the Sky did an excellent job in varying the tempos on this release. I’m almost inclined to classify this as progressive metal, as this is not the type of headbanging fury with an impetuous double bass. The songs are fairly complex and require a few listens to get into. The guitar solos are well done and also fit very well into the prog/power style. Thinking about it, the sound of the album resembles Evergrey quite well. Similarities could also be drawn between vocalists, as both are emotional and have good range.
It has its filler moments and may take a few listens to grow, but the music is good and showcases some very respectable skills. If you’re into Evergrey or Masterplan then you should enjoy this record very much.