Hallowed Apparition

Eidolon, originated in 1995, comes from Toronto (Canada). Being a four piece band, Eidolon plays what I personally call heavy metal in the early Iced Earth / Forbidden style. Hallowed Apparition is a huge improvement compare to Nightmare World (previous record). This time no keyboard ! It is total 100% heavy metal. Very very heavy !!! Sometimes reminding Judas Priest or Iron Maiden, sometimes reminding me Forbidden and Black Sabbath, the potential of the band seen on Nightmare World is even more evident on this one. This is quality modern heavy metal, pure and simple. There is a fair amount of riffs and melodies and I think this makes Hallowed Apparition an attractive album. Of course in this category of metal, the emphasis and spotlight always falls on the guitarist, who is expected to come up with tasteful licks and thrilling breaks and solos. My only complain is again the vocals. Brian Soulard has done also huge progress, but there is still some work to be done in order to totally erase the last "out of tune". Well made, inspired, convincing, extremely heavy, melodic and powerful. With each track a surprise, the production being excellent, which makes all 10 tracks even more richer. The competition in a scenario so rich in good bands may leave Eidolon in anonymity, but the band is following the right path (for my taste at least) and if next one sees the same improvement, Eidolon will be finally recognized. Congratualation also for the great cover art (again !). If you like heavy stuff (really heavy stuff), this one is definitely for you.