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| Byrd "Anthem": Independent Review
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Byrd
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Review of "Anthem"
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By: Ronny Elst
ames Byrd became a real legend when he formed the band Fifth Angel.The Fifth Angel
debut album was a true classic in the epic melodic hardrock genre and in an instant
James Byrd was one of the most famous guitarists from the 80's.Regretfully James
left after the first Fifth Angel album and formed his own band James Byrd's Atlantis
Rising.The self titled debut was a nice record but vocalist Freddy Krumins was
definitely not as good as Ted Pilot (Fifth Angel vocalist).In the early nineties
James released two highly aclaimed instrumental albums which were strongly
influenced by the great Uli Jon Roth.In 1996 James released the album "The
Apocalypse Chime" under the name of The James Byrd Group and two years later "Crimes
of Virtuosity", which was maybe the most diverse album that James ever released.
In 2001 James made one of the best decisions of his life forming a band with Brian
Hutchinson on keyboards and Michael Flatters on vocals.Under the name Byrd the album
"Flying Beyond the 9" was released through Lion Music.Almost every editor loved this
album and this was definitely no surprise because the melodic hardrock mixed with
symphonic and neo-classical influences sounded fresh and inspired.Not only James'
guitar escapades sounded better than ever but also Michael Flatters was one of the
biggest new vocal talents of the last couple of years.Now we got the new album
titled "Anthem" and again the melodic, symphonic and neo-classical elements are here but I personally think that the songs are even better than on "Flying Beyond the 9".
My favorite songs are "Omen" , "All I Want", "Killing Machine" (maybe one of the
best songs James ever wrote), "Thank You" (just listen to the guitar solo on this
one!) and "The Price of War".
"Anthem" is another classic in the making and together with the Fifth Angel debut
album this is probably the best album that James ever released.Very recommended!
Rating : 9.5/10
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Ronny Elst / Metal Coven
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Vol. 16, No. 6: Apr.-May 2012
