Ελληνικά
Genre : Heavy Metal
Country : Sweden
Label : Metal Blade Records
Year : 2014
This split includes the alliance of two of the hottest names in heavy metal at this time. Ram and Portrait share many common characteristics. They are both derived from the country phenomenon in metal music, the dear to us all Sweden. They make records under the same ‘roof’, the always likeable and with enormous talent of adapting to the metal movement of every period, Metal Blade Records. Even musically, both bands are moving in the same context, with Ram exhibiting a more « in your face » Judas priest style, while Portrait does it with a more evil mood, but without the packed ‘Mercyful Fate’ scent of their early work, although it hasn’t fizzled completely.
Regarding the content now, we have three songs each. A new song from each band, a cover/swap of Ram playing Portrait and vice versa and a tribute to a classic song. ‘Savage Machine’ is Ram’s new song, pretty dynamic, characteristic writing sample of the band but without being something special. Ram continues with the cover of ‘Welcome to My Funeral’ of their compatriots, played a little slower than the original. Overall a sympathetic adaptation, with the band catching the original atmosphere and with Oscar Carlquist sound like King Diamond more than ever. Also very nice is the cover on ‘Creatures Of The Night’ of Kiss. An admittedly safe choice after going to track that fits the style of the band.
Portrait on the other hand presents ‘Martial Lead’ but unfortunately fail to convince us. The band in my opinion sounds less inspired in contrast to their early stuff. They try hard but all they achieve is a nerveless piece that has nothing to do with their dangerous past. Indifferent is also the cover of ‘Blessed to Be Cursed’ of Ram but they surprise us at the end with the Exciter cover! ‘Aggressor’ although I didn’t expect much, fits the style of the band perfectly. Without doubt one of the best covers I’ve heard. Amazing vocals, razor sharp guitars, it is flawless from all aspects, a speed metal bulldozer that leaves nothing standing.
Making a split is a must for underground bands that want to be heard, offering the consumer a tempting package. It’s a win-win for both sides in the end. The thing is that this release has no meaning whatsoever. I would prefer to see these songs as bonus on their upcoming releases or uploaded on the internet for fans to hear them. Especially from the moment the musical content is too mediocre in its entirety.
2.5/6
