LEVEL FIELDS – 1104

The debut from Germany’s Level Fields is described as an inspirational journey for Metal fans spanning Doom, Thrash, Prog and US Metal. Backed by a clean production and mix, the bands compositions travel from genre to genre rather than all at once.

Level Fields runs counter to the wall of sound chosen by many bands. “Disowned” and “Enough” lead with doomy riff slabs which are allowed time and space to ring out. Melodic touches add lift and contrast. Backing vocals and spoken word impart an other-worldly feel and play well against the bold riffs. Sandwiched between these two “Truth Bringer” showcases compelling riffs, lyrics and adds an organ for additional depth. Unfortunately a strained vocal performance prevents this song from being truly outstanding. After an uninspiring three song midsection, the album’s remaining two songs take a high speed detour onto the autobahn. Firing off at the pace of standard Power Metal fare, “ReMarquezable” burns itself out before reaching the two and a half minute mark. While it demonstrates another side of the band, it contrasts so strongly with earlier material it feels like it belongs on a different album. Closer “Extra 1104” recounts a train derailment where passengers are boiled alive by boiler water from a burst engine compartment. Complete with graphic narrative lyrics and shredding guitar riffs suitable for the horror, the song is not for the squeamish.

While “1104” doesn’t break any new ground for Doom, Thrash, Prog and US Metal, there a moments of mastery for each which are worth a listen. The strength of the album is the guitar on the Doom Metal influenced tracks.

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TRACKLIST (Highlights: 1, 2, 3, 8)

1. Disowned
2. Truth Bringer
3. Enough
4. Get Over It
5. Womb to Tomb
6. Growing Old
7. ReMarquezable
8. Extra 1104

LINEUP

Marco Ahrens – guitars, bass, keyboards
Alan Tecchio – vocals
Andreas “Theo” Tegeler – drums
Clint Arent – bass