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Angra
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Vinnie Apicella
Angra, for all intents and purposes, a new band, a new beginning-"Rebirth."
The remaining guitarists, Kiko Loureiro and Rafael Bittencourt, two-fifths of
the original band were left with the daunting task of having to carry
on after the rest of their band decided to walk away sometime after
the release of their last "Fireworks" LP in '98. Many in Metal circles had
a right to leave them for dead, satisfied with their
previous accomplishments and ready to unleash an altogether new project for
the future. But such did not happen and thus against the odds
"Rebirth" was. born. Necessarily, Angra went about the challenge of carrying
on by giving rise to an impressive past, one that carries with it
an excessively heavier baggage than had more recent works to in effect
not only bring fans a new version of the band but one returning to
their roots that many longed to hear from again. "Rebirth" capitalizes on
the strengths of the core members and showcases the talent of new
vocalist Edu Falaschi whose rise-above vocal dexterity harbors images in
the manner of an early Helloween, Pink Cream 69 or Stratovarius, featuring
a potent range that's quickly accessible during those more subtle
moments. The songs indeed carry on with their Power Metal origins, mixing
well with the more updated and up-tempo effects consistent with the
many European heavyweights with Angra's expectant Brazilian twists
and classic melodies. Highlights include but not limited to the
battle-ready "Nova Era," and its "Angels will arise-back to life"
significance; the slower sensuousness of "Heroes Of Sand;" and the brilliant
eight-plus minute two part "Unholy Wars" which takes us on a lyrical
journey appropriate enough to close out our work here for an impressive
return to prominence for a once hollowed band having stormed
through expectations-"The battle is over, but the war still rages on!"
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