Balance Of Power – Fresh From The Abyss

Reviewed by: Blake Mossey

Review Score: 8

The founding members, bassist Tony Ritchie and drummer Lionel Hicks, are now joined by the band’s new lead vocalist, Hazel Jade, as well as guitarists Chris Young and Adam Wardle. These new members have taken over from former guitarists Chris Masimore and Stoney Wagner, who collaborated with the band on the upcoming album Fresh From The Abyss.

Balance of Power is a melodic/progressive metal band from the UK, formed in 1995. Their debut album was released in 1997. Fresh From The Abyss is their sixth studio album, marking 21 years since their last studio release.

Predominantly exploring themes of life and death, Fresh From The Abyss is a compilation of songs that either capture a singular moment in time or offer a broader reflection on the expanse of time and space, as well as the experiences of living and dying.

The album begins with ‘Last Man Down,’ an excellent representation of the band’s essence, featuring a robust opening that transitions into an almost 70s vibe, complete with a memorable chorus and impressive riffs.

The following three tracks embody the band’s more melodic metal style, with ‘Never Be Here Again’ highlighting Hazel’s vocal talent and the band’s skill in crafting complex song compositions.

Then, on the next three tracks, the band shifts into a higher gear with heavier riffs and a slightly increased tempo that enhances the power metal vibe. The standout track for me is ‘Abyss,’ which is the album’s heaviest song. Hazel’s vocals are particularly fierce and venomous, adding an evil tinge to her voice that really drives the song. ‘Velocity’ and ‘Deadlands’ maintain the band’s heavier edge, which will surely please long-time fans.

The album concludes with the seven-minute epic ‘One More Time Around The Sun,’ a heavily melodic track that once again highlights the band’s talents and Hazel’s vocal prowess.

Balance of Power has returned with a terrific album that melds melody with powerful metal. Long-time fans may need time to adjust to the female vocals, but Hazel’s performance is stellar, featuring lots of great riffs and solos throughout the album.

Album Available April 19th on Massacre Records. PRE-ORDER HERE

DISCOGRAPHY:
1997 – When The World Falls Down
1998 – Book Of Secrets
1999 – Ten More Tales Of Grand Illusion
2001 – Perfect Balance
2003 – Heathen Machine
2005 – Heathenology (Compilation)
2024 – Fresh From The Abyss

Album available April 19th on Massacre Records. Pre-Order album here.