ALPHA
TIGER – Man or Machine (2011)
Sonic Attack Records
“Man or Machine” is the debut album of the German
metal band ALPHA TIGER, or more precisely their first release under that name.
Until early 2011 the group was known as SATIN BLACK, and under that moniker
they put out the album “Harlequin” in 2008 and the demo “Martyr’s Paradise” in
2010. The name change also brings a change of direction: where SATIN BLACK
leaned towards a thrashier sound, ALPHA TIGER play U.S. power metal with a
number of European power metal elements, a combination that gives the album a
classic yet fresh character.
The album makes a very strong impression. The vocals
of Stephan “Heiko” Dietrich are outstanding, powerful and expressive, and they
carry the melodies with confidence from the first track to the last. The guitar
work is equally impressive, with inspired riffs and melodic leads that give
each song its own identity. The album is consistent throughout and has no weak
moments, yet a few tracks stand out clearly: “Starrider”, “Against the Time”,
“Karma” and the title track “Man or Machine” are the highlights and are bound
to leave a lasting impression on any listener.
So far it is the best album of the year in my view,
and a safe choice for every fan of classic metal, who should not hesitate to
pick it up. The band has made a promising start under its new name, and the
next release is awaited with great anticipation.
A final word on the artwork: the cover is a pleasure
to look at. It is handcrafted in spirit and avoids the sterile,
computer-generated look of many modern covers, which suits the music inside
well.
Ioannis Kaskamanidis
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