Five years after their fine “Valiant Sentinel” debut album, Valiant Sentinel return with their second full-length release. Titled “Neverealm”, it arrives to shake up the stagnant waters of Greek power metal! Dimitris Skodras and his crew deliver a top-tier power metal record—high-level work packed with killer songs that every fan of the genre will love. Musically, “Neverealm” is a prime example of melodic power metal: heavy metal driven by strength, melody, brilliant guitar work, a massive rhythm section and outstanding vocals. Veandok gives the performance of his life, Skodras plays like there’s no tomorrow, and Frederik Ehmke pours his soul into the drums. I could describe Valiant Sentinel as Greece’s more melodic answer to Iced Earth (just listen to songs like “War In Heaven”, “Neverealm”, “The Underdark”, “Mirkwood Forest” and “The Battle of Hornburg”, and you will agree with me). Beyond that, the new album carries influences from both European and American power metal bands. Lyrically, Valiant Sentinel dive into fantasy themes, inspired by Tolkien, role-playing games, and more. The blend of lyrics and music—combined with the passionate performances of every member of Valiant Sentinel—creates a dynamic, melodic heavy metal result. The album also features two notable guest appearances that add extra weight to the final product: Zak Stevens (Savatage, Circle II Circle) and Laura Guldemond (Burning Witches). In short, Valiant Sentinel rise with this sophomore album as the ultimate power metal heroes, which are bringing a refreshing and invigorating breeze to the Greek metal scene.
♦ 8,5/10
Dimitris Zacharopoulos
