[TR24][OF] Manacle - No Fear To Persevere... - 2018 (Heavy Metal)

Standing Tall - 85%
Claymore312, May 8th, 2018
Manacle's first album has been long awaited. Despite setbacks such as not having a solid lineup until the release of this album, they have managed to pull through, and give us their long awaited debut.
Fans that have been with the band since the beginning, will note that four of the six tracks (Fight for Your Life, Tears of Wrath, Witches Hallow and Stand Tall) were released digitally about two years prior. These were the same versions of the songs used on the album, I did not find this to be a drawback because the tracks were labeled as a "preview" of this album when released originally. Also on this album, are: Live Fast, Die Fast and Journey's End. Both of which can be heard on earlier demos, but have been rerecorded for this album. There are no filler songs on this album, which is arguably why this album is shorter than most. However, I believe this gives the album more integrity, because this leaves the album to only have great songs.
On guitar is founding member of the band, Inti Paredes. The tone and writing of the guitar on this album are in the same vein as early Queensryche and Fates Warning. Within songs such as Tears of Wrath and Stand Tall, his versatility to change up riffs and licks while staying tight and melodic is well done. While in Live Fast, Die Fast its clear that he can also have fun with simple and classic galloping riffs.
Bass on this album was recorded by now former member of Manacle, Phil Labine. Labine delivers very punchy basslines comparable to early Exciter albums in both style and tone. In addition to this, the bass stands on its own and is very audible in the mixing.
Drums were recorded by Jake Gracie, now also a former member of the band. Gracie is an absolute powerhouse on this album. His playing style can be compared to that of Nick Menza, due Gracie's mix of furious playing while remaining very tight and precise.
Finally, there are the vocals of Kevin Pereira, who's performance on this album was outstanding. Pereira's vocal style can be compared to Michael Kiske or Bruce Dickinson. While influences from these great singers can be heard, Pereira's voice maintains a unique sound of its own while soaring above the music.
There are very few complaints to be made about this album. In my opinion, the negative elements are that some of the song lengths are a little longer than they need to be, which leads to some repetitiveness hear and there. As well, it would have brought a more fulfilling feeling to the album to have one or two more rerecorded songs. This would have given Manacle fans the chance to hear the bands other demo recordings in much better quality.
In conclusion, it is evident that Manacle is back in the game with a deadly debut, as well as a recently announced solid lineup to bring it to us on the road. This album does have its minor setbacks. However, with outstanding musicianship and songwriting, these setbacks fall through the cracks and allow for the enjoyment of a band on the rise in the Canadian metal scene.