Judgement Day – Polar Shift

Label: Minus Head Records

Release Date: July 31, 2012

Rating: 8/10

Reviewed by: ToddStar

Normally I dig a disc with great vocals and meaningful lyrics, but who can argue with Symphonic Metal?  I am not talking about Swedish or European metal with tons of huge arrangements.  I am talking about cello, violin, and drums.  If you are a fan of Apocalyptica, you are really going to like this, as the different instruments lend themselves to different tones and layering.  Not to mention, these guys keep it strictly instrumental.  No guest vocalists or Metallica covers here.

These guys have been lovingly referred to as “String Metal” by fans and critics alike.  According to the press release, they used unfiltered violin and cello sounds, in an isolated wooden room with uniquely vaulted ceilings lending an incredible sound to the release.

It is hard to go song by song and give a detailed review of each track, as the music is all very emotive and attention grabbing.  The blending of the different instruments along with sound effects and layering creates a disc that is sure to please most metal heads who are willing to listen to something that doesn’t have lyrics or guitars.

If you get the chance, pick up this disc from brothers Anton (violin) and Lewis (cello) Panzer and drummer Jon Bush.

http://www.stringmetal.com/judgementday/

https://www.facebook.com/judgementday#

Tags: Instrumental, Judgement Day, Polar Shift

Category: CD Reviews