Maximum Metal Rating Legend

Stalker Zero Zone 2003 Independent Demo Release - Reviewed by IcedMojo

Track Listing1. My Mission 2. Zero Zone 3. Higher Price 4. I Will Fight Again

I was recently introduced to a demo by a group from Rio named Stalker. Unsure of what I was getting into, I gave “Zero Zone” a listen. Damn, this is just a demo? Other than the obvious production limitations of a self produced album, it is hard to believe these guys haven’t been together long.

In order to fully grasp the album, (as the entire demo has a common theme through out) I have to explain what the zero zone is. Actually, I think Vasconcellos Davis (Guitar) can better explain it: “Ok, about zero zone, its where, in the space, stays a new planet. A planet that represent hope for mankind, where we could start everything from the beginning but doing it right...”

While this is their first attempt with the current line up, Andres Andrade-Drums, Vasconcellos Davis-Guitar, James Galvão-Vocals, Thiago Mourão-Bass, Zero Zone marks Stalker’s third release. (Years of Death in 1996 and Lost Kingdom in 1997 are the first two).

The entire sound is one that reminds me of Steel Prophet, around the time of their start (Dark Hallucinations). Zero Zone is as unique a sound as I heard in a long time. Starting with the space theme, “My Mission” begins the journey of space and glorious guitar work. Continuing with the theme, this song really focuses on their keyboardist. But wait, they do not have one. That fact did not stop these guys from using samples and doing it great. What else can I say about Stalker, pure driven melodic power from start to end. Steel Prophet’s exploding sound and vocal workings wrapped in a different package. By the time the fourth song came on, which really blows you away with a pure adrenaline rush and well rounded melodies. My only thought was, damn, is this it?

Recently I was told all “power metal” was sounding the same. Stalker puts that cliché to bed. With a calculated powerful sound (ALA Steel Prophet) and melodies that send you to Zero Zone, they bring a style of their own. Watch out for these guys, they will blow you away too, and make a huge splash on the metal scene soon. Just on the songwriting and musicianship (not production, as I said, it is a demo), I would rate the album as a 9/10. They have all the talent needed but I feel as if they can take it a step further. A small detail is missing and oddly enough, I can’t put my finger on it.

--IcedMojo 01.30.04