Eye Empire – Impact

Label: Vertusent

Release Date: June 19, 2012

Rating: 9/10

Reviewed by: ToddStar

I was really excited when these guys self-released the disc Moment of Impact last year. I wrote a review of that disc at that time and gave it 4-1/2 stars. All this extra material and new songs garners the same number of stars on this review, but it is only because the material is just as strong as the tracks on that release. Again, as I reviewed the other disc previously, I am only going to cover the new material available on this 2-CD release.

“Moment” kicks off the new material on this release. What a killer track – no wonder it is the title track. I wish this had been a bigger part of the last release. The vocals here are great; you can hear the emotion in Carpenter’s voice. The musicianship of the band is very tight here as well. “Revolution” is another track that stands out. The vibe of this one is different from most of the other songs – this one has an 80’s feel to it, while rooting itself in 2012. The monster guitar solo is a nice touch. “Hopeless” comes along and has a very cool groove to it. The band is firing on all cylinders here. It isn’t overly aggressive, but is a SOLID rock tune. This is probably my favorite Eye Empire song. “Angels & Demons” runs the opposite direction form the preceding track. It is good, but doesn’t stand out for me. The vocals are cool and the music is heavy, but it just doesn’t leap up and ask to be noticed. “Obvious” is the final new track on disc one. This is very similar to the other tracks in its strengths. The musicianship is really demonstrated here, as the song takes different turns without sacrificing anything. The rhythm section is great here, as the bass and drums play a vital song in this song.

“Self Destructive” is another track that keeps the rock a little light. Carpenter really sings well on this song. Again, you can feel the emotion coming through in his vocals. “Don’t Lie to Me” is a song that I hope is not overlooked because it was relegated to the second disc. This tune has a strong melodic line woven through by the guitars and bass. The drums are pounding and perfect for the track, as is Carpenters vocal styling. This song is one of the best on the latter disc. “Inside The Light” closes out the new material on the last disc. It fits well among all the other tracks with its rhythmic, almost tribal, music. The song really showcases each member of the band in a different way. The disc also features three acoustic tracks: “Feels Like I’m Falling” – “Moment” – “I Pray”. Closing out the disc are two live tracks: “Idiot” – “Bull In A China Shop”.

These guys have one hell of a pedigree if you look at previous projects or associations. 2012 just may be the year of the Empire. Join me in ushering a new rock era; an era of Impact – this is Eye Empire.

http://www.eyeempire.com/

https://www.facebook.com/eyeempire

Tags: Eye Empire, Impact, Sevendust, SKH

Category: CD Reviews