review: Solar Flare

Solar Flare

Solar Flare

23 May 2020

Solar Flare is traditional heavy metal fueled by the objective of writing anthems. It is tailor-made for supporters of do-it-yourself, classic-style local bands around the world; for those supporters of “little” bands that dedicate years of joy, frustration, work, dragging around their equipment to the rehearsal space and shows at the bars and house parties to bring entertainment with rock-based, singing heavy metal. Every song seems directed at making it stay in the listener’s mind after the album ends, achieved through melodic singing and catchy guitar. The singing is in the tradition of 70s and 80s rock, whether it’s Styx and Judas Priest, or Boston and Dio; for audiences appreciative of vocalists dedicated to the craft of singing. Of course, always sense for yourself if the voice sounds good to you. If your ears tell you that the voice is somehow annoying, then it’s a good reason to go with what one’s ears are saying. Here, the singing should be pleasing, not irritating, but you never know, some people’s ears hear things differently.

The sound quality stands out from the clinical computerized clicky productions; like on the drums, which here sound rather robust and real (Are they?!). The music sounds closer to a real, live band doing its work. It looks like they probably are able to reproduce the music live rather faithfully, apart from some background vocals and some guest keyboards (it seems like they are going to be needing a keyboardist!). Naturally, they don’t have the budget for the big Hollywood fancy-schmancy-nancy-and-tom-clancy production, but to the firm believers, the band will be welcomed with open, spiked arms. This is for those that believe in supporting DIY traditional heavy metal bands, not just the corporate bands like Priest/Maiden. It’s a solid, fun, rocking debut. Fans that like singing and rock anthems could find a good surprise from the state of Ohio. Nicely done!