BALANCE OF POWER – Fresh From The Abyss

It’s been 21 years since Balance Of Power released their last studio album Heathen Machine, leaving fans in the lurch. The long wait is over, and it’s definitely been worth it, as the new lineup and album may be their best so far.  Founding members Tony Ritchie (bass) and Lionel Hicks (drums) are joined by the band’s phenomenal new lead vocalist Hazel Jade, as well as guitarists Chris Young and Adam Wardle. Both guitarists have since taken over the reins from Chris Masimore and Stoney Wagner, who helped create/record the new album.

Back With A Vengeance

Written before, during and after the pandemic, the band took a more organic approach, testing themselves with new and different ways of writing their material. Largely about life and death, Fresh From The Abyss is a collection of songs that either stops the clock and points to a moment in time or stands back and encompasses the vastness of time and space, and living and dying.

Final Notes

Balance of Power – Fresh From The Abyss is a great example of a band at the top of their game. Hazel Jade’s vocals are powerful and captivating. The guitar work is crunchy, precise, and just plain awesome. The rhythm section kicks ass, keeping the band driving hard throughout the album. The production by Toby Jepson and Lionel Hicks is top notch. The album is a great listen all the way through, abounding with Heavy Metal earworms like “Monster” and “Last Man Down”. This album has it all, and is so far one of the top releases for 2024. Check it out, pick up a physical copy, and support this band. You’ll be glad you did.

Lineup – album

• Hazel Jade – Lead Vocals
• Chris Masimore – Guitars
• Stoney Wagner – Guitars
• Tony Ritchie – Bass, Vocals
• Julien Spreutels – Keyboards
• Lionel Hicks – Drums

Lineup – Live

• Hazel Jade – Lead Vocals
• Chris Young – Guitars
• Adam Wardle – Guitars
• Tony Ritchie – Bass, Vocals
• Lionel Hicks – Drums

Fresh From The Abyss – Tracklist

1. Last Man Down
2. Never Be Here Again
3. Monster
4. Rage Of Ages
5. Abyss
6. Velocity
7. Deadlands
8. One More Time Around The Sun