(Power Metal) Symphorce - Unrestricted (Limited Edition) - 2010, APE (image+.cue+scans) lossless

Biography:

Some bands just don´t allow limitations or restrictions. Experiments are necessary for them to discover the depth of their visions. SYMPHORCE are one of those bands. The hard working group around singer Andy B. Franck (also Brainstorm) and guitarist Cede Dupont is known for only releasing first-class material as well as breaking stylistic borders and playing the hottest up-to-date Power Metal that one has heard in the last 10 years.
What better title could have been found for the new SYMPHORCE album than “Unrestricted”? It sums up the band´s attitude perfectly and is underlined by a scenario of breaking chains on the cover artwork. “Unrestricted” comes at you like a hammerfist wrapped into a velvet glove. Powerful, modern, melodic, traditional, angry and sensitive, all at the same time. Undoubtedly it is the most “catchy” piece of work that the band has ever created – and it´s all hits! This album is highlight-filled from start to finish, delivering a strong dose of gutsy Power Metal that whether lacks balls nor melody. Cleverly integrated electronic elements and the forceful executed and creative guitar work make SYMPHORCE something special amongst the Metal scene. “Unrestricted” was recorded in the Studio 22 (Ludwigsburg, Germany), mixed and mastered by Axel Heckert.
Already with their debut “Truth To Promises” (1999 – Noise Records) Andy and his band delivered a strong piece of work which immediately gained the band a lot of attention and fantastic reviews. Andy, guitarist Cédric “Cede” Dupont and bassist Dennis Wohlbold became the creative core of the band, producing razor-sharp riffs and catchy melodies as if there was no tomorrow. Following a tour supporting MERCYFUL FATE, the band released their sophomore album “Sinctuary” (2000 – Noise Records), which managed to spread the name SYMPHORCE even further. Both fans and press hailed SYMPHORCE as one of the most promising and hopeful bands of the future, and they were right… The last few line-up problems were solved when guitarist/songwriter Markus Pohl and drummer Sascha Sauer joined the band. After playing a number of shows and festivals, the band devoted itself to the creation of new songs.
Now working with Metal Blade as their new partner, SYMPHORCE recorded their following two albums, “phorcefulAhead” (2002) and “Twice Second” (2004) at the House of Music Studios with Achim Köhler (BRAINSTORM, PRIMAL FEAR etc.) producing. “Energetic”, “modern”, “with real bite” are just some of the descriptions that the worldwide press gave the band. Through tours supporting the likes of KAMELOT and GRAVE DIGGER, as well as several festival shows, SYMPHORCE established themselves as a first-class international live act. Despite the difficulty of following up the press’ and fans’ favorite “Twice Second”, SYMPHORCE delivered once again. Everybody, from the last few skeptics to the true “phorceheads”, was equally surprised: “GodSpeed” showcased a band that had become a staple in the music world of 2005. Working with producer Dennis Ward (ANGRA, PINK CREAM 69) at the House of Music Studios, the band created a modern yet timeless album, far beyond the confines of so called power metal. A tour with SONATA ARCTICA and SYMPHORCE’s US live debut followed, making the band a worldwide name. February 2007 was set for the release of “Become Death”, the sixth album, featuring new drummer Steffen Theurer. Produced by Dennis Ward and mastered by Achim Köhler once again, “Become Death” was a true and unexpected progression for the band. In 2009 SYMPHORCE then signed a new deal with AFM Records. With “Unrestricted” the band now ultimately climbs the metal Olympus!

I have to admit that I never really considered myself a fan of the German band Symphorce. They seemed like just another power metal act, and unlike most of the free world, I've never been a fan of Andy Franck's Bruce Dickinson impersonations. But Symphorce's new release, "Unrestricted," shows the band and me turning a new leaf.
After listening to "Unrestricted," I don't think you can really call Symphorce a power act anymore – the opening track "Eternal" runs the gamut from symphonic to sleaze to industrial, all in the first 30 seconds, but there's no power metal sound to be heard. What "Eternal" does sound like is a breathtaking opener that shows how diverse the band has become, and that is definitely a good thing.
I've also come to the conclusion that Franck's vocals are pretty good, when they go with the compositions. Just like no one in their right mind would ever call Dickinson's voice pretty, Franck's voice always seemed foreign to me in previous Symphorce music. This time though, it works amazingly well, probably because as a whole "Unrestricted" sounds a lot like Iron Maiden. Sure, a lot of bands have been influenced by Maiden, and occasionally you come across one that imitates them well, but "Unrestricted" actually made me want to pull out the old Maiden vinyls, particularly when I heard tracks like "The Last Decision."
This new release isn't perfect though, and probably its biggest downfall is the synths that open "Whatever Hurts" and "The Waking Hour." Both tracks sans synth would be pretty good, and "Whatever Hurts" does satisfy the power requirements for those wanting a more traditional Symphorce sound.
My personal favorites though are the rallying classic rock sounding "Visions" and the closer "Do You Ever Wonder." Heavier guitars, lower range vocals, and galloping tempos make these perfect choices for fans of metal with a classic feel.
Another good choice that shows how the band is developing and growing as a unit is "Until It's Over." This one is upbeat and more progressive, with an awesome breakdown. Still, it's got some mainstream appeal and makes you want to sing along.
The bottom line is if you're an established Symphorce fan expecting more of the same, "Unrestricted" probably won’t thrill you. But if you're looking for a good listen that effectively combines progressive and classic metal, this album is an excellent choice.
Highs: A diverse but effective blend of progressive and more classic metal elements.
Lows: A couple hokey synth intros, but they're quickly masked by chugging guitars.
Bottom line: A surprising new sound from a band known for its power metal sound, this one is a good choice for fans of classic metal.
Review written by Eccentricity for www.metalunderground.com

Andy B. Franck - Vocals
Cedric “Cede” Dupont - Guitars
Markus Pohl - Guitars
Dennis Wohlbold - Bass
Steffen Theurer - Drums