Maximum Metal Rating Legend

Black Majesty - Silent Company - 2005 - SPV

Track Listing1. Dragon Reborn 2. Silent Company 3. Six Ribbons 4. Firestorm 5. New Horizons 6. Darkened Room 7. Visionary 8. Never Surrender 9. Better Way To Die

Silent Company marks the second release by this young power metal band who comes from the somewhat unusual location of Australia. Not exactly an area known for the style, but they do have Dungeon as well. At any rate, the first album was promising so I gave this one a spin. The sophmore release of a young band is always an interesting as it's often a telling sign of how long they'll be able to stick around.

I have to say that pretty much nothing has changed from the last album here. These songs could very well belong to the same release or songwriting session. Black Majesty certainly has a good sound with some heavy guitar and soaring vocals, but there is a bit of sameness about their music. They remind me a lot of fellow limb band Valley's Eve. Great sound but in the end not many songs stand out individually since they're so close to each other. Another comparison that comes to mind would be Iron Savior and wouldn't you know it?... Piet Sielk produced this one. But the blame can't be cast in his direction really because the first album had the same issue.
The production on this one is top notch and it's pretty pleasing the the ear in the general formula. The thing is I do think this band has to branch out a bit more with their third release or risk getting lost amongst the many power metal bands who seem to take this approach. A bit more variation in the vocal approach would be a help if the singer is capable.

Highlights: Darkened Room, Silent Company

Rating 3.0/5.0

--Stygian Steel 10.11.05