Τετάρτη 7 Μαΐου 2025

REVIEW: MASTER SPY – Maze Runner

 


MASTER SPY – Maze Runner


Stormspell Records


Power Metal with Substance and a Clear Identity


Canadian power metal act MASTER SPY are set to release their second album, "Maze Runner", and it's clear from the outset that this is a significant step forward. Scheduled for release on Stormspell Records on February 17, 2025, the album presents itself as a work that feels both rooted in tradition and decidedly contemporary within the power metal landscape.


The album features six core tracks, with an additional bonus track included specifically on the CD version. This bonus track is noteworthy for featuring Blaze Bayley, formerly of Iron Maiden, a collaboration that adds a distinct layer of character and weight to the recording.


MASTER SPY build upon the foundations of classic heavy and power metal, drawing on influences that are evident – you can hear echoes of bands like Stratovarius, Angra, Dragonforce, and Lost Horizon. However, they manage to avoid sounding dated or derivative. Instead, there's a palpable energy and a sense of purpose in their sound, suggesting a band that deeply respects the genre while clearly forging their own path.


Craig Cairns delivers a vocal performance on this album that stands out in recent power metal releases. He possesses the qualities of a strong frontman, demonstrating vocal agility and a genuine emotional connection to the material. The guitar work from Merk, Officer-X, and Christian Vidal is consistently strong, featuring a blend of memorable melodies, intricate solos, and impactful riffs that leave a lasting impression.



The rhythm section, comprised of Kostas Vass on drums and James Amelio Pulli on bass, provides a robust and solid backbone to the music. Pascal Lamanche on keyboards adds a layer of atmospheric depth, contributing a cinematic quality to the compositions. Each track feels carefully constructed, showing attention to detail while maintaining the necessary dynamism and emotional core of the genre.


While not a concept album, "Maze Runner" maintains a cohesive feel and a natural flow that keeps the listener engaged from beginning to end. There are no tracks that feel like mere filler; each song contributes meaningfully to the overall experience. Crucially, the music feels authentic. It doesn't sound overly polished or designed purely for flash. It’s honest and fueled by genuine passion.


"Maze Runner" serves as a strong reminder of the enduring appeal of power metal – its capacity for combining fantasy, power, melody, and genuine feeling. MASTER SPY demonstrate that they are more than just a band playing in a traditional style; they are a voice with a clear respect for the genre's history and a confident outlook towards its future.


Nick Parastatidis


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