Just when I thought I had grown bored with the genre known as Power Metal, along comes Sydney, Australia band Dragonsclaw. According to their biography, Dragonsclaw was conceptualized in 2007 by guitarist, Ben Thomas and inspired by the epic compositions and raw technicality of bands such as Symphony X, Adagio and Kamelot. Dragonsclaw remained an idea until Thomas could find a line up of like-minded metal virtuosos to bring his compositions to life. During this time Ben built up a local reputation as an up and coming six-string shredder, playing guitar with Sydney thrash metal band, Paindivision. Thomas was also featured as a guest guitar soloist on the Empires of Eden album's, “Reborn In Fire“ and "Songs Of War And Vengeance". New Zealand born vocalist, Giles Lavery, joined Dragonsclaw in 2010. He brings to Dragonsclaw an immense vocal range and a fine ear for catchy choruses and vocal melodies. Giles’ influences run deep in the ether of metal & hard rock music, from Iron Maiden, Judas Priest , Manowar and King Diamond to A.O.R groups such as Survivor, Journey and Foreigner.

   From the opening riff of the “Painkiller-esque” “Darkness Within” and lead vocalist Giles Lavery’s banshee-like scream, I was immediately hooked. The songs on “Prophecy” are played with passion and virtuosity. Lead guitarist Ben Thomas is a serious shredder who playing brings to mind 80’s bands Racer X and Cacophony. Meanwhile, drummer Alcides "Seed" Stowe powerful playing style is reminiscent of Scott Travis of Judas Priest. In the realm of power metal, a vocalist can either make or break even the most talented band. Luckily, Lavery’s powerful range and melodic sensibility is highly enjoyable. His upper register is awe inspiring at times.

     On the songs “Fight For Your Life”, “Angels in White”, and “Defenders of the Skies” Dragonsclaw is on full Metal assault. On “Prophecy is a Lie”, Lavery’s vocals take a more theatrical tone to great effect. The blazing “Life Through Anubis Eyes” is an epic headbanging masterpiece with a blinding solo section from Thomas and a greater emphasis on keyboards by Ray Marten.

     “Rising Power” continues Lavery’s piercing vocal wails in the fine tradition of Rob Halford or Geoff Tate (when he was actually a metal singer). Other great tracks include ‘Devil’s Fiery Dance”, the neo-classical “”The Unknown Horizon”, and closing track, the haunting “Revolutionary Suicide”. Dragonsclaw have renewed my faith in the future of power metal. Highly recommended for fans of Cage, Painkiller-era Judas Priest, and Racer X.

Rating: 8.5