MORTON – Come Read The Words Forbidden

Rarely is there ever an exemplary Metal release out of the Ukraine. When one does comes out, listening to it is a must for all who appreciate Metal music. Morton is one of the fresh signings of the German AFM Records. Their debut album, Come Read The Words Forbidden, has already been out for a period of time but on a smaller local scale independently, but after their signing it was made widely available as it rightfully should.

This album in general is, as it would seem, all about playing it safe with Heavy / Power Metal that aims to be swift, highly accessible and bombastic in its sound all at the same time. Why play it safe? Due to the flow of Euro bands storming the scene with the mentioned elements, some might imply that they have already heard this kind of music over and over, time and time again. Therefore, all that remains is the quality of the material itself while not testing its uniqueness. Morton’s melodic Metal approach is analogous to what Helloween, Dream Evil, Kamelot and Rhapsody Of Fire among others have been following throughout their careers. Nonetheless, the Ukrainians cranked it up pretty well with their music and the end result turned out in their favor.

The album’s production process, mostly handled by the person that has been leading this venture from the very beginning, Max Morton, produced an impressive showcase of modern sound. Not that the direction was special in comparison to other acts of similar nature, but the quality is undeniable. Performance wise, you are looking at a class act. The twin guitar works decimate with power equal to great acts, Morton’s vocals are excellent as he has an amazing voice pattern matched to the best, while the rhythm section fulfills its role with elegance.

Although Morton provides well played material, it doesn’t come as a surprise as the songs’ structures pretty much follow the same line throughout the release. Most of them hit with commanding riffs that also convey the lyrical verses. The overall purpose was to be fluent and clear. That is why the songs are easy and straightforward if you can call it that. What’s a little bit odd is the usage of keyboards to intensify the melodic rhythm section. Furthermore, Morton had them used on short but rather atmospheric ballads that were more of a bridge between the tougher tracks.

Highly recommended on the list are the straightforward “Eaglemark”, “Black Witch” and “Sleeping King”. If you are opt to something dissimilar, check out the closing anthem of the “Weeping Bell” clearly a song that seems to have deep meanings. Words forbidden or not, you have to acquire this release, even if it is by “just another Power Euro band”.

Tracklist

1. Calling For The Storm
2. Eaglemark
3. Brotherhood Of Light
4. Sleeping King
5. Losing Faith
6. We Are The Shades
7. Oblivion
8. Grimoire
9. Burning Prisoner
10. Werewolf Hunt
11. Black Witch
12. Azrael
13. Weeping Bell

Lineup

Max Morton – Vocals, Lyrics, Composing, Mixing, Mastering
Roman Skorobagatko – Guitars
Alexander Rudnev – Guitars
Andrey Karpov – Bass, Lyrics
Dmitry Smotrov – Drums