Reviews
Axel Rudi Pell – Risen Symbol
With Risen Symbol, Axel Rudi Pell delivers his 22nd studio album, staying true to his signature blend of heavy metal and melodic hard rock.
With Risen Symbol, Axel Rudi Pell delivers his 22nd studio album, staying true to his signature blend of heavy metal and melodic hard rock. As expected from an artist with such an extensive catalog, the album boasts polished production and strong technical performances, but it also raises questions about creativity and cohesion.
The album opens with the instrumental track “The Resurrection,” a cinematic intro that feels somewhat redundant. While it sets the tone for the record, its transition into the next track, “Forever Strong,” is abrupt, lacking the fluidity needed to connect the two. That said, “Forever Strong” is one of the stronger pieces on the album, showcasing solid guitar work and a commanding vocal performance by Johnny Gioeli. The song encapsulates the band’s core strengths: catchy melodies, soaring choruses, and tight instrumentation.
“Guardian Angel” follows but suffers from a critical flaw: its awkward phrasing. The lyrics don’t quite match the rhythm of the music, creating an uneven listening experience. It’s a shame because the track has potential, but the mismatch diminishes its impact.
One of the album’s highlights is “Darkest Hour.” This mid-tempo track leans heavily into an ’80s-inspired aesthetic, offering a dose of nostalgia that feels authentic rather than derivative. It’s a piece that will likely resonate with long-time fans, reminding them of the glory days of melodic metal.
On the other hand, the epic, ten-minute-long “Ankhaia” stands out for different reasons. Its composition and atmosphere are reminiscent of early Rainbow, full of dramatic shifts and intricate arrangements. While undeniably impressive on its own, the song feels out of place in the album’s broader context. Its grandeur clashes with the more straightforward, radio-friendly tracks, making the overall listening experience somewhat disjointed.
The album’s production is impeccable, as expected from a seasoned artist like Pell. The guitar tone is crisp, the vocals are front and center, and the rhythm section delivers a punchy, dynamic foundation. However, no amount of production gloss can entirely compensate for the album’s lack of cohesion.
Risen Symbol feels like a mixed bag. There are moments of brilliance that remind listeners why Axel Rudi Pell has been a staple in the genre for decades. However, these moments are interspersed with tracks that feel formulaic or out of place. Fans of Pell’s earlier work or those with a penchant for ’80s metal will likely find something to enjoy here. Still, the album stops short of reaching the heights of his best releases.
Verdict: While Risen Symbol has its strengths, its inconsistency prevents it from achieving greatness. A respectable effort, but one that lacks the cohesiveness needed to elevate it to classic status.