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DAMIEN THORNE
"End of the Game" (Self-produced; 2011)
Reviewed by R. Scott Bolton
I’m often puzzled by the complaint by so many rock journalists about the lack of guitar leads in hard rock/heavy metal songs. It’s not that I dislike guitar leads, it’s just that I don’t understand why others put so much importance in them. Then comes along an album like "End of the Game" and suddenly I begin to see the light.
On "End of the Game," Damien Thorne incorporates incredible leads into the songs – not just as breaks but actually in the song structure itself -- and that creates a sound that falls somewhere between Judas Priest, Megadeth and Iron Maiden (and other bands of that type) with a different, perhaps more modern, edge. The riffs are awesome and the vocalist – while not Rob Halford or Bruce Dickinson – is strong enough to really deliver.
If you want an album that kicks your ass old school style, but still has a modern kick and enough leads to really sink your teeth into, this album might be what you’re looking for.
For more information, check out http://www.damienthorne.com.
"Haunted
Mind" (Self-produced; 2005)
Reviewed by Snidermann
This is my first experience with Damien Thorne. I've heard of the band but, until I did a quick search on the Internet, I didn't realize they'd been around since 1983 and that they were from the Chicago area.
Frankly, I was surprised at the quality of the band's sound, especially since it's been so long since they last released a CD. "Haunted Mind" has an Iron Maiden-like sound, full of guitar-driven power metal that is head and shoulders above most of the newer bands out there.
Practically out of the blue, Damien Thorne has hacked its way into my regular play list and continues to surprise upon repeated listenings with its complicated, well realized metal charisma. For my money, Damien Thorne stayed away far too long.
Damien Thorne: Ken Mandat - guitar; Tattoo Frank - vocals; Mike Browz - drums; Rick Browz - bass.
For more information, check out http://www.damienthorne.com.
Rating Guide:
A classic. This record will kick your ass.
Killer. Not a classic but it will rock your world.
So-so. You've heard better.
Pretty bad. Might make a nice coaster.
Self explanatory. Just the sight of the cover makes you wanna hurl.
Copyright © 2011 by R. Scott Bolton. All rights
reserved.
Revised:
04 Mar 2024 13:27:28 -0500.
