PHENIX - SACRED FIRE - BRENNUS
French newcomers Phenix are the sort of group who do not come around often any longer. Basing their sound on pure and unmuddied heavy metal, Phenix is clearly Iron Maiden-inspired. A closer listening points at comparisons with Metal Blade's Jacob's Dream. Beyond the oddly designed CD cover and a below average - for an album anyway - sound Phenix is a band employing vocal harmonies and melodic and smooth leads. The drumming is uneventful and in need of a spark or two, but fans of the aforementioned bands will clearly enjoy much of what is transpiring here. There are many quieter moments too and the band is not shy about employing acoustic guitars either. Check out The Keepers Of The Sacred Fire and the instrumental song Submarine Assault.