Katagory V
The Rising Anger
Nightmare Records
7.5/10
This Salt Lake City outfit focuses on the type of melodic metal that was first popularized by bands like Fates Warning and Crimson Glory. On “The Rising Anger,” the group straddles the line between hard-driving melodic rock and modern power metal. “Liberated Minds” offers plenty of great guitar licks, all the while making the vocals of Lynn Allers the center point of attention. The off-time china boy crashes by drummer Matt Suiter gives the song a bit of finesse on “The Elitist,” his performance bringing much to the table in terms of natural skill.
Katagory V has the ability to shift gears convincingly. From forward-driving melodies to dream-state streams, the band tackles a variety of musical themes, while maintaining a consistent melodic quotient. With so much attention being placed on European progressive/power metal acts, it can be easy to forget that a good number of American artists still embrace classic metal themes, but it’s true. Consider Katagory V as being right up there with the rest of the pack. This quintet has an affinity for strong melodies and definitely fit into the thinking-man’s metal category.
Production-wise, the record is sound, but could use a tad more heft. Having said that, the mix is still very workable and does much to showcase the respective abilities of the individual band members.
You’ll hear touches of Dokken in songs such as “Will You Remember,” but Allers’ voice is deeper and more on an even keel. Bassist Dustin Mitchell employs some slick fills here and there in the band’s music that separate him from the bass drum and allow him to show a bit of his own musical prowess. Meanwhile, Chris Morell and Mark Hanson are a good team, doubling up at times for impact and during others, forming a nice counter-balance of strength and harmony.
“The Rising Anger” is a good showing from a band that obviously has a lot of musical talent. Fear not, there’s plenty of headbangable material amidst the melody. For those who admire bands like Savatage, this young act should be considered as being of note.
Written By: The Thrash Commander
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