Galneryus – Between Dread and Valor Review

If you’re not familiar with the nipponese Galneryus, just imagine going back to the early 2000s euro-power metal scene, where neoclassical was the cournerstone of the genre. Add virtuosos playing each instrument, specially axeman and founder Syu, and top with Japanesse vocals that of course will sound like they are straight outta your favourite anime (After all Masatoshi “Sho” Ono is the voice in songs for animes such as Hunter x Hunter or Dragon Ball Kai).

The 40 minutes in the new LP are varied and great overall, with clear standouts “Run to the Edge” and “Bravehearts”, closing with a Galneryus version of a track by their own vocalist. The production and choice of keyboards sound old school, with trumpet-like parts reminiscent of Celesty and choruses ala Rhapsody or Angra. The raw sound in both guitar and drums help with the twenty years trip back in time due to the CD not being as over produced as most albums nowadays.