GEORGE TSALIKIS
"Return to Power" (Pure Steel Records;
2021)
Reviewed by R. Scott Bolton
"Return to Power" is a big, old school,
chest-pounding power metal record that meets all the requirements: Epic guitars,
thunderous drums, soaring vocals, sci-fi/fantasy/battle-tinged lyrics.
The good news is that, if you're a fan of power
metal, you won't find anything more satisfying than "Return to Power." Tsalikis,
who was previously vocalist for Gothic Knights, Zandelle and Overlord, has a
killer voice that fits the genre perfectly. (And, in fact, re-joins with his
Zandelle drummer, Joe "Jofu" Cardillo, here). The production is crisp and
clear—as it should be on a power metal album—and the music sounds big and
anthemic.
There’s no downside here if this type of music is
your thing but, if you’re looking for something fresh and modern, look
elsewhere. I mean, there’s something to be said for "fresh and modern," but
there's a lot to be said about keeping old school alive as well, especially when
it comes to a genre like power metal.
For more information, check out https://www.facebook.com/GeorgeTsalikisSinger/.
Rating Guide:
A classic. This record will kick your ass.
Killer. Not a classic but it will rock your world.
So-so. You've heard better.
Pretty bad. Might make a nice coaster.
Self explanatory. Just the sight of the cover makes you wanna hurl.
Copyright © 2021 by R. Scott Bolton. All rights reserved.
