Crystal Eyes launch their sixth album “Chained”.  Following the steps and styles of Iron Μaiden, Judas Priest, Helloween and many other metal gods, Crystal Eyes successfully maintain the classic heavy metal sounds.  Originally formed in 1992 but their music career officially started in 1999 with their debut album “World of Black and Silver”.  They have an impressive band resume they continue stronger than ever.  With talented vocalist Nico Adamsen, who had joined the band by 2006, and Fredrik Nordstrom on the mixing board, Crystal Eyes are on a steady road.

Solid song writing that easily can be identifies with great classic heavy metal. Nothing unexpected or any distortions of modern metal. There are riffs that bring to mind the roots of heavy metal and the bands that made it grow as a genre.  The album consists of nine tracks and with titles like ‘The Fire of Hades”, “Waves of War”, and “Shadow Rider”, I must say I was intrigued.  Upon listening to the songs I understood what they are all about and I really enjoyed it.

The first song, “Ride the Rainbow” has elements of Helloween vs. Iron Maiden.  It the guitar riffs that clearly state their influences.  “Fires of Hades” and Shadow Rider” are the songs that stand out. A little bit of Black Sabbath comes to mind amongst many other audible influences, and Running Wild fans check out “Waves of War”!

If you don’t like bands that create music inspired by the past and that stick to those musical recipes, than you might want to check out something else. On the other hand, you will be missing out on other good characteristics of the album.  For those who don’t mind hearing music that has “already been done”…Then blast this album!