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FUTURESHOCK
Futureshock

Self-released (2022)
Rating: 7/10

I’m hearing a lot of relatively new bands that seem a bit weak in the vocal department, and German outfit Futureshock are no exception. Singer Adrian Seifert really needs to get his off kilter pipes into gear because they mar what is essentially a solid heavy metal album that has its roots firmly in the New Wave Of British Heavy Metal style.

After a single and a demo I expected an improved performance from Adrian on this album, but not only does he lack power and finesse I’d also suggest he’s bereft of passion. Tracks such as ‘Destruction Of Eternity’ with its steady gallop and ‘Leviathan’ with its pace, suggest a combo with some excellent melodies and good ideas, but a richer, warmer vocal style would really benefit the band.

Admittedly, a lot of bands from the dark ages of the 80s had similar vocal issues, but then again that’s probably why they faded into obscurity. However, when you hear a track like ‘City Of Witches’ with its superb riffs, or ‘Howling Winds’ with its Iron Maiden-esque trundle I just think it deserves more than a half-hearted vocal warbler.

Musically, this debut full-length opus is a very smooth ride. The twin guitar assault is awesome, the drums are clear and the bass grooves, but if these guys are to get the recognition they deserve then something needs to happen up front. At the moment Futureshock feels like a strong, yet incomplete football team lacking a striker with killer instinct.

Neil Arnold

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