Some closer attention to the song writing is required if Minotauro are going to create the big waves they'd like to.
The Italians have a pretty good track record when it comes to producing Symphonic Metal bands and Minotauro aren't about to let the side down, essentially playing solid power metal with the twin guitars of Roko Smailagic and Damjar Cahariga keeping it heavy while Rudy Berginc hollers in true power metal fashion over the top.
What helps raise their game is the inclusion of a big orchestral sound that brings bluster to the songs. Unusually, this orchestration is the real deal, including a genuine orchestra rather than the synthesised orchestration we're used to hearing on such records. The result is the symphonic part of their music really does have the power to stir up a storm at sea. Also, there are splashes of prog keyboards as on 'Taste Of Freedom' and 'Hero' that also add clout.
However, it doesn't quite tick all the boxes. Initially, it's hard to pinpoint but ultimately it's down to the song compositions themselves. The musicianship itself is good, and equal to countless bands out there, but the songs tend to hang around a bit too long, and don't stay long in the memory after they've gone and there's some repetition in song structure. It's often mid paced and would benefit from some neo-classical speed in places.
If you like power metal or symphonic metal there are points in this record such as opener 'The Idol' and closer 'Devil Sign' that you'll be keen on but some closer attention to the song writing is required if Minotauro are going to create the big waves they'd like to.
Duncan Jamieson
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