Serious Black are back with a new album Rise of Akhenaton, just in time for the band’s tenth anniversary. This represents the second album for singer Nikola Mijic, who has really come into his own as he gets better with each release. Guitarists Bob Katsionis and Dominik Sebastian are the riff brigade, while bassist Mario Lochert and drummer Rami Ali cover the rhythmic landscape nicely. Now, about the songs…
From the jump I was instantly attracted to “Take Your Life”, “Silent Angel”, and “We Are the Storm”, a well-done triumvirate of bangers all in a row. “Shields of Glory” also boasts some of the heaviest chunky style riffs I’ve had the pleasure of hearing this year. With “United” the group delivers one of the finest power metal anthems known to these ears and it’s again, one of the album’s best cuts. The guys stay onboard the heavy train when it comes to the title track. This one should slay in a live setting.
Also, the cover song “I Will Remember” (originally done by melodic rock / AOR veterans Toto), is dedicated as a tribute to Mario’s father who died recently and is nicely done. The album closer “Metalized” was another winner and a fine way to end things. Once again. Serious Black have delivered a good one with Rise of Akhenaton. I guarantee all you power metalheads will dig this!
Standout Tracks: “Metalized”, “United”, “Silent Angel”, “Take Your Life”