Crescent Shield - The Stars of Never Seen (Cruz Del Sur Music) - Back
Formed in the year 2000, Crescent Shield are a Los Angeles based traditional/power metal band, whose members have been active in a host of other bands over the last decade or so. “The Stars of Never Seen” is Crescent Shield’s second full-length album and it picks up right where 2006’s “The Last of My Kind” left off.

What you are getting is a solid traditional heavy metal album with lots of memorable riffs and melodies. Crescent Shield’s forte is methodical, driving mid-paced riffing, balanced with some slower more melodic sections and the occasional burst of speed. Vocalist Michael Grant has a big booming midrange that when used right can add a larger than life quality to the songs. Grant is at his best when the music is slower, and he is given room to open up his voice. He manages well enough during the album’s more up-tempo sections, but the man’s voice is simply not made for rapid-fire delivery.

Much like label mates Pharaoh and Slough Feg, Crescent Shield remain relatively obscure yet manage to out do many of the genre’s heavy weights with each release. “The Stars of Never Seen” is a very good album, with a few stunning moments and I recommend it to fans of traditional heavy metal and power metal.

Rating:
84

Reviewed By: Garett F.