MAELSTROM

MAELSTROM's "It was Predestined" is epic power/thrash like you've never heard it. The EP is just a taste of what promises to be one of 2009's most ambitious full-length albums. The band formed back in the '80s, eventually breaking up with members moving on to play in SPOOGE, SOILENT GREEN, and CARBOMB. The planets realigned and MAELSTROM has reformed to drop jaws with this impressive shot across the power/thrash metal bow.

"Cinematic" is a word that has been used to describe "It was Predestined" and it is a fitting way to put it, as the EP is composed of not so much a collection of individual tracks as a sonic voyage across stormy seas. The quiet opening to "Arise" soon explodes into hard-hitting power thrash led by the unique speak/sing grit of vocalist Gary Vosganian, which make everything else seem that much bigger and bolder. Classical acoustic guitar, neoclassical guitar runs, thundering drums, and the soaring harmony vocals of Dawn Marie Macaluso are brought together in an utterly superlative manner. The power drive continues on "A Futile Crusade" as double bass punch propels the galloping rhythm and tough riffing that is soon pierced with eerie ambiance, acoustic speed picking and a solo that seems to cry out to the heavens. The sound of horses' hooves punishing the earth leads to more robust riffs, rhythmic gallops, and neoclassical flourishes on "Predestined" before turning into up-tempo thrashing and speedy vocalizing. Arpeggio sweeps and death growls accent the piece further. Tue Madsen ties it all together with gusto.

In all likelihood, "It was Predestined" barely scratches the surface of what we may hear on the upcoming full-length. Hard as I tried, I couldn't come up with a comparable sounding act. "It was Predestined" is heavy, all encompassing, and musically exquisite. The harsh wind hitting your face now will no doubt pale in comparison to the oncoming tornado.