Symphonic Power Metal: Fierine - Rise Through the Flames (2015)

46 / 100

Rise Through The Flames suffers from a mismatch between genre label, vocal approach, and musical execution.

Slovenia is not a large country, either geographically or in terms of producing metal bands. From a quick look, the only ones I can personally recognize are Within Destruction and Zorya. Fierine, meanwhile, is one of the groups that chose power metal as its main genre, releasing an album titled Rise Through The Flames in 2015.

Although it is specifically labeled symphonic power metal, this band does not emphasize the usual uplifting spirit associated with acts like Pathfinder or Twilight Force. From what I hear on the opening track, “The Corpses Shadow,” the music is closer to Powerwolf, particularly in its use of organs and a slower tempo. Klemen Kelih’s operatic vocals dominate the mix and feel more suitable for gothic/doom metal settings, as demonstrated on “Until the End,” “Out of Control,” and “Against the Odds.” Is that why the accompanying music fails to work optimally? I think so. Another possibility is his choice to sing in English rather than in a local language, which makes the delivery feel less direct.

The strongest track is “Fear,” which carries a Pathfinder-like feel, even though its symphonic elements are not particularly thunderous; the rest comes across as rather plain. There is also an opening line in the chorus of the ballad “New Tomorrow” that reminds me of another song, though unfortunately I cannot recall the title. If I am not mistaken, it most likely comes from a veteran Indonesian band called Dewa 19.

In short, Fierine fail to maximize their potential and would be better suited to operating in gothic/doom territory, or perhaps by making the decision to use a female vocalist rather than a male one, especially if their musical output remains mid-tempo or slower. Therefore, I do not wish to recommend this album to power metal fans of any kind. If you are curious, feel free to check it out.