CRYSTAL TEARS – Decadence Deluxe

Crystal Tears says it delivers high quality Heavy Metal with heart, soul and a dynamic blend of aggressiveness and harmony. Decadence Deluxe, their 5^th release, is described as inspired and fresh and was produced by R. D. Liapakis the vocalist for Mystic Prophecy.

Starting off with a scream, “Evil Vs. Evil” erupts with aggressive drumming often outpacing the rest of band. Despite the disparate pacing, the song provides spurts of infectious melody and a memorable chorus. Also, memorable are the brittle drums devoid of low tone and a vocal performance lacking melodic chops and incapable of sustaining notes with power. “Blindead” follows as a well-crafted slower paced song played with precision but plagued by sub-par vocals. Next is an obscure cover of “Heart Of A Lion” from Judas Priest circa 1986. While not exactly fresh, this was an inspired choice which suits Crystal Tears well and features the best vocal performance on the album. The remaining tracks provide diminishing returns. Many tracks contain moments of outstanding melodic guitar work but lack lyrical hooks and a powerful vocal delivery. The power ballad “Bleeding Me” features the vocalist closer to his comfort zone. Combined with some well-placed acoustic and electric guitar, this song is the high point of the second half of the album.

Based on the finished product, the vocalist for Mystic Prophecy was not the best choice for a producer. While Liapakis has the range and power to handle the arrangements on this album, this band’s vocalist does not. Crystal Tears might take more care to keep the vocalist within his capabilities and capture a better performance.

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TRACKLIST (Highlight Tracks: 1, 2, 3 & 7)

1. Evil Vs. Evil
2. Blindead
3. Heart Of A Lion
4. Where Angels Die
5. Death Haunts Forever
6. My Own Hell
7. Bleeding Me
8. Chaos Thy Name
9. Sick Of It All
10. Dear Insanity
11. Tears For The Dead
12. I’m 18 (bonus track)
13. Tie Your Mother Down (bonus track)

LINEUP

Søren Adamsen (vocals)
Kostas Sotos (guitars)
Máté Nagy (guitars)
Alex Chamalides (bass)
Chrisafis Tantanozis (drums)