25/08/03

GAMMA RAY / SKELETONS IN THE CLOSET

This was recorded in 2002 in Barcelona and Strasbourg with a set chosen by fans from the bands website and is chock full of Gamma Ray classics. Taking their inspiration from classic Iron Maiden and Judas Priest, this is Power Metal to the max and the sheer energy of the concert is captured very well indeed, it makes you feel that you are actually there.

The Maiden comparison is aptly demonstrated by the track "All Of The Damned" that actually starts off with a classic Steve Harris type bass line and could easily have come from any Maiden album, but that’s not to say that Gamma Ray don’t have their own identity because they do. There is some great songs on here, "Armageddon", "Heart Of The Unicorn", "Razorblade Sigh" and "Heaven And Hell" to name but a few, if you are not too familiar with Gamma Ray’s 13 year career this would be a fine place to start.

I must also give a big thumbs up to the designer the booklet as it is very lavish, with over 170 photos in it and gives you something colourful to look at while the CD is spinning, well done.

TOTAL PLAYING TIME CD 1 =48 mins + 9 TRACKS, CD 2 = 54 MINS + 9 TRACKS