Richard HolmesMirror – Mirror (Metal Blade)
Genre: Heavy Metal
Lead by Tas Danazoglou – better known as the mastermind behind proto-thrash champions Satan’s Wrath – Mirror is a homage to Rainbow, Iron Maiden, Angel Witch and classic metal as a whole. Featuring Repulsion’s Matt Olivo on guitar, as well as Satan’s Wrath axeman Stamos K and drummer/producer extraordinaire Jaime Gomez Arellano, Mirror are more of a multi-national conglomerate than a band, a United Nations of sword and sorcery metal… and in Cypriot Jimmy Mavromatis, they have a man who was seemingly born to sing thunderous, fist pumping ditties like Galleon.
For all the band’s collective experience though, their debut is a mixed bag. When they get it right, as they do on Heavy King, Mirror are commanding, carrying you along with their infectious enthusiasm and making you party like it was 1981… the leadwork throughout is glorious too.
However, as is the case with many trad metal revivalists, the quintet often imbue their music with high drama and grandiose arrangements, but fail to replicate the majestic songwriting skills of their forebears, leaving you wanting to dig out your old vinyl, rather than press the replay button.
Still, Satan’s Wrath improved over time, and with their talented line-up, it’s a fair bet Mirror will too.
RUSHONROCK RATED: 6/10 Past Reflections