II Lords of Black 2016 Frontiers Records II is the 2nd release by Spanish Power Metal band Lords of Black and their first on Frontiers Records and is the follow up to their 2014 self-titled debut album was released independently. Lords of Black have a very classic Power Metal sound infused with guitar sound that is comparable to the likes of Ritchie Blackmore and Yngwie Malmsteen. This is also aided by Ronnie Romero’s strong, powerful voice which is reminiscent of Ronnie James Dio and Jorn Lande, whilst still sounding different enough to not being a straight up imitation. As with Lords of Black, guitarist Tony Hernando has produced II with ex-Helloween and current Masterplan mastermind, Roland Grapow. Between them, they have once more produced a great sounding album. Having a Power Metal veteran such as Grapow involved in the production of II has only added to the sonic quality and the overall feel of II, in particular the acoustic guitars that begin Ghost of You sound beautiful. II has plenty of dynamics to offer, the build-up through Malevolently Beautiful leading into Merciless sets the tone for the rest of the album. Merciless has some very nice keyboard sounds that eerily float in and out of the mix before drummer Andy C kicks in with a pounding double bass beat. Andy C is flawless throughout, his drumming is a powerhouse and is relentless throughout. C’s drumming is perfect for Lords of Black, providing the perfect anchor for new addition on the bass, Javi Garcia to lay down some great melodic runs. However, it is the voice dynamic voice of Ronnie Romero which steals the show for Lords of Black. Romero at times sounds so much like the late, great Ronnie James Dio that it is uncanny. Romero is another little guy with a big voice, just by opening his mouth, Romero can change the feel of song, from a heartfelt ballad to a soaring Power Metal surge. As well as singing for Lords of Black, Romero also fronts the reincarnation of Rainbow and as you know, Ritchie Blackmore doesn’t pick anyone mediocre to work with and that is not only a testament to Romero as a vocalist, but as a person. The craftsmanship of the songs on II is very good, however, in parts the album feels a little dragged out and stale but, Hernando’s playing throughout is second to none and the guitar solo from Ghost of You is breath taking. The song which follows Ghost of You is The Art of Illusions Part III: The Wasteland and has an opening minute that has a sound of 90’s Helloween, no doubt from the influence of Grapow at the production helm. Other highlights from II are the subtle piano notes which begin Everything You’re Not building into an extremely catchy song and possibly the best on the album to the Dio style swagger of Cry No More. The fact that music videos were produced for these songs sum up what Lords of Black are all about. II is a decent Power Metal album, it has its flaws, but songs such as Everything You’re Not and Merciless certainly make up for it. The musicianship throughout is flawless and in particular Romero’s voice. Romero is a fantastic gem in the modern metal world and deserves a lot more credit to his name, as do the rest of Lords of Black. II is a good start to life on a major label and can only signal Lords of Black going from strength to strength. 6/10 Adam Everything You're Not (Hernando/C.)
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