Hanker is a band that upon my first listen (which was “Snakes
and Ladders”) I wasn’t sure what to make. They were labeled as a mixture of heavy
metal with a power metal edge, so I was excited to hear what they offered. The first
thing I noticed was that, they did not sound like your typical power metal
outfit. No symphonic powers driving the songs forward. No wailing or high
octane vocals. No mash of riffs, harmonies and solos that are so often associated
with the genre. In addition to not having any of the general power metal clichés,
in noticed that the band also doesn’t seem to fit any other sound to make a comparison.
It’s true that Hanker has elements of power metal, but only a splash. But,
then, you also hear a splash of progressive metal. There’s a little NWOBHM
sound and there’s a little classic 80’s US metal to be heard. It’s certainly not
your traditional sound, but make no mistake, this is exactly what makes Hanker
such a fantastic band. If I had to compare, I might say they have a little
Manilla Road mixed with Jag Panzer, but that’s more of an elemental comparison.
On Hanker’s debut, “In Our World”, you can hear all of these
elements pretty clearly. The guitar riffs fluctuate from song to song. On “Bloodbath
in Heaven” and “Fight the Light” you get the sense of good old fashion speed
metal, but the sound on “Disturbing the Brain” follow a similar twin rhythm of traditional
NWOBHM. Of course the progressive elements can be heard in a song like “In Our
World” where the guitar slowly builds until erupts into pure heavy metal bliss.
The drumming on the other hand, is pretty heavy, more so than your traditional sound
usually offers. They are powerful, yet they complement the softer elements the
band tend to offer.
As for the vocals, well they are yet, another sound that is
rather unique to the band. Pascal Cliché’s style is one that can only be
described as filled with emotion. He doesn’t have high octane yells, no
wailing, no symphonic voice. The man just sings and he does it with heart and
soul.
Anyone seeking a classic metal gem would be wise to seek “In
Our World Out”. It will definitely take more than one listen to fully appreciate
the band’s unique sound, but not that many. Fans of Progpower fans, NWOBHM
fanatics or just hose looking for some good old fashion heavy metal, in my opinion
will enjoy this album.
Highlights: “Bloodbath in Heaven” “Disturbing the Brain” “This
Could be Heaven” “Cradle of the Night”
Rating: 4.5
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