Overlorde - Overlorde 2000 Demo

Year of Release: 2000
Label: independent
Catalog Number: n/a
Format: CD
Total Time: 15:07:00

Formed back in 1985, this band created quite a stir in the underground scene with the release of the now much sought after 5-song EP. Sadly, they never emerged from cult status and disbanded three years later. Fortunately the band reappeared in 2000, twelve years later and teamed up with vocalist Bobby "Leather Lungs" Lucas (ex-Seven Witches/Exhibition) and together they have recorded this 4 track demo.

Overlorde play true US-power metal with a clear breath of early 80s nostalgia. The music is rather fast paced with Mark Edwards solid guitar work being the driving force. The vocals range from the mid-to-high register and Lucas definitely has a solid pair of lungs, that's for sure. His voice is very suited for this music. I could have done without the occasional [high] pitched squeals though, but I know fans of the band absolutely love that, so it might be just me. I don't know. I have to admit that this is not my favourite metal genre but Overlorde's true, unpolished sound does have a certain charm and appeal to me. The songs need some time to get into but all 4 tracks are of good, strong quality with opener "Blackness" as the standout track. The production is also well balanced, but lacks some depth and power. Being a demo and an independent band I'd say it's just above average quality. I think the simple, genuine sound suits the music really well.

In these days of Helloween and Rhapsody clones, Overlorde comes as a breath of fresh air to the genre. Certainly it's not for everyone's taste, but either way, this is good implacable traditional power metal. With a few more quality songs like these to show for, closing a deal should be within reach.

Similar To: Early Queensryche, Crimson Glory and Judas Priest

[This review originally appeared May 2003 at the ProgPower Online review site -ed.]

Tracklisting:
Blackness / Hell Hath No Fury / Ogre Wizard / Metallic Madness

Musicians:
Bobby 'Leather Lungs' Lucas - vocals
John 'Kong' Bunucci - bass, lead and backing vocals
Mark 'M.E.' Edwards - guitars, backing vocals
Dave Wrenn - drums

Discography:
Overlorde (ep) (1997)
Overlorde 2000 Demo (2000)
Return Of The Snow Giant (2004)
(plus appearances on metal compilations)

Genre: Progressive-Power Metal

Origin US

Added: January 17th 2005
Reviewer: Bjørnar Bevolden
Score:
Artist website: www.overlorde.com
Hits: 2735
Language: english