Live In The U.S.A.

Frontiers

By far one of the most prolific bands to emerge in the Power Metal genre is Germany’s Primal Fear led by veteran Sinner bassist Matt Sinner and former Gamma Ray frontman Ralph Scheepers. The band never ceases to amaze with their direct in your face approach. Monster riffs, lush melodies and make your hair stand on in charisma are what drives the band and absolutely nothing compares to the raw energy provided in the live experience. For many years I had hoped to see these guys do what they do live and in the last year I was privileged to have caught the show not one but twice. Considering that this was their first tour of the states I felt it was only right to get my fill. In a surprise move by the band, they recorded a live album aptly titled Live in the U.S. A. from this tour and I must say it truly captures the vibe presented from actually being in attendance.

From a production standpoint Live in the U.S.A. is incredibly powerful with the right blending of bottom and high end. For those of you who have killer sound systems or surround sound with a nice sub this CD is best when cranked to 10. Covering an assortment of material from their back catalogue as well as some new gems there is something for everyone here. Favorites include “Killbound”, “Nuclear Fire”, Six Times Dead (16.6) “, the highly emotional epic “Fighting the Darkness” which features guest vocalist Pamela Moore (Queensryche: Operation Mindcrime) and the bands unambiguous anthem “Metal is Forever”. Of special interest is the acoustic laden “Hands of Time” which showcases a very different side Primal Fear and is highlighted by the trade off vocals between Scheepers, Sinner and Henny Wolter.    

As live albums go, and I’ve never been a huge fan of live recordings, this one ranks very high and I am undoubtedly very impressed with the end result. In addition to the release of the live CD the guys also have released a live DVD called 16.6 All Over The World to coincide as well. So for those who’s like the visual representation be sure to check that out also.

-Priest