Ever since the inception of Seven
Witches in 1999 there has been many lineup changes, at least one per
album. Joining the founder and guitarist Jack Frost (ex-Savatage) this time
are drummer Jeff Curenton, bassist Kevin Bolembach (Non-Fiction), and lead
singer Alan Tecchio (Hades, Watchtower, Non-Fiction). Seven Witches’
“Amped” continues to have the classic metal sound they are know
for ripping. Nothing really to complain about, everything seems to be pretty
good all-around. Soaring power metal vocals are like the combo of Matt Barlow
and Bruce Dickinson. There is an assortment of nice guitar riffs that can
get you right into some tunes. The music also has energy and vitality for
most of this disk, but looses a portion when songs have more simple melodic
choruses. Not all the time, but something to mention nonetheless. Another
noteworthy mention is the unexpected cover of Billy Idol’s “Flesh
For Fantasy.” Nothing spectacular but it’s hard to out do an
original; it’s at least decent. My favorite tunes include “Dishonor
Killings,” “GP Fix,” and “Fame Gets You Off.”
Guitarist and founder Jack Frost also produced “Amped,” the
7th of his career. Overall this is more than a solid disc… I never
seem to be disappointed by a release that includes Jack Frost.
Rating: 82
Reviewed By: Jeffrey D. Adkins |
