DOMINATION BLACK – Judgement IV

Prepare for the Judgement

This week sees the release of the 4th full length album from Finland’s own Symphonic Power Metal band Domination Black – Judgement IV.  Since forming back in 2003 the band has come a long way through several line up changes, bringing them to 2020 with a very talented group of musicians. Vocalist Matias Palm shows his versatility on the album as he sings in several styles from raspy screamer, to melodic tenor and back again. The twin guitar attack of Teppo Heiskanen of Juuso Laitinen impresses us with precise, crunchy rhythms and tasty solo work throughout. Juuso Elminen adds that perfect blend of keyboards that makes the whole band shine, add to that the solid rhythm section of Lauri Eerola on bass and Ville Nissinen on drums and you have a great band.

Classic Power Metal

The album kicks off with the catchy – up tempo opener “The Judgement”, giving us our first taste of what’s to come. The vocals are melodic, the choruses are big, and the guitar work is stellar. “Obsession Master” follows with a more riff oriented, almost Thrash Metal sound that works well with Matias Palm’s raspy screaming style. “Centre of the Universe” gives us a more straight ahead dance beat, and is very reminiscent of Andi Deris and Helloween with it’s super catchy melodies and sing along choruses enhanced by beautiful guitar work. The production work by the band is first rate, showing once again that a band can often know what’s best for their music. The song writing is mature, giving us a well written and complete Power Metal experience.

Favorite Tracks

“Vat” with it’s galloping beat and harmony guitars gives tribute to classic Iron Maiden, and is one of this reviewer’s favorite tracks. “Beyond the Shadows” gives us an epic 7 plus minutes of power ballad combined with chunking breaks and as always smoking hot guitar work. Another favorite track is “This Endless Fall” with it’s high energy and foot stomping pace that keeps your head banging from start to finnish.

Final Notes

Domination Black is a band to keep on your radar, as they seem to get better and better with each album. Judgement IV is a great accomplishment, and a worthy addition to your album collection. If you’re a fan of Power metal in the style of Helloween, Stratavarius and Dynasty then you should definitely check out this record. You’ll be glad you did.

Lineup

Matias Palm: Vocals
Teppo Heiskanen: Guitars
Juuso Laitinen: Guitars
Lauri Eerola: Bass
Ville Nissinen: Drums
Juuso Elminen: Keyboards

Judgement IV – Tracklist

1. The Judgement
2. Obsession
3. Center Of The Universe
4. VAT
5. Though The World Perish
6. Beyond The Shadows
7. This Endless Fall
8. Master Of Deception
9. Empire Of Lunacy
10. In The Abyss