Debut album from the Queensryche inspired outfit.
Wiszdom Stone is the brainchild of guitarist Ray Luokka and tub thumper Brian Noonan, who, to their credit, have spent the past few years patiently putting together the quartet that has now issued ‘Rise’ – the band’s first release. And the album itself? Queensryche! The comparison is unavoidable, particularly with the pre- ‘Empire’ period, which, in itself is no bad thing, but you can’t help feeling that if Wiszdom Stone could just cut loose, they could really have something to offer.
As ‘Rise’ is clearly self-funded, the band can be forgiven for the production quality, which works against them. But the songs – well, that’s a different matter. There are some great ideas fighting to get out and the vocals are surprisingly strong, most notably on opener ‘Rise’ and ‘Unforgiven,’ where vocalist Andre gives us his best Geoff Tate impersonation. ‘Take This Cup’ is throwaway, but thankfully is the exception, not the rule. ‘Without Faith’ is a solid slow burner, whilst ‘The Battle Rages’ moves apace with its keyboard intro and driving backline. Eight minute ‘epic’, ‘Mourning Loss’ doesn’t quite live up to its own expectations, but in fairness, it’s a near miss, with the lousy production values letting the band down again. ‘Eyes Open’ reigns things back in, before ‘U Should Not Fear’ provides a solid closer, with its Maiden-like guitar driving ‘Rise’ over the finish line.
A & R men take note. Give this particular ‘Stone’ a polish and there’s a little gem waiting to be found.
B.A.Boon
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