Artaban’s Redemption – Broken Puppets

Artaban’s Redemption
Broken Puppets
Demons Records
May 21^st, 2021
29:02

Artaban’s Redemption was founded at the end of 2020 by Alvaro Weik, guitarist of the Spanish Power Metal band Unbound. Actually, it was meant as a personal project to release some songs composed last year. Five songs were produced and will be released as an EP in May. For the recordings, he received support from musicians who are also active in other well-known Spanish bands. There is a concept behind “Broken Puppets” – a futuristic story. AI-equipped machines rebel against increasingly selfish humans.

“Obsolete Tech” – that’s exactly how the opener sounds at the beginning. But don’t worry, the Spaniards don’t play Techno, but very melodic Power Metal. After the keys have briefly taken over the further introduction, riffs and double-bass attacks bang out of the speakers. This is where a good subwoofer pays off. And singer Ivan Giannini convinces with his clear voice.  Of course, mastermind Alvaro Weik shines on his six-string. Of course, there are no great changes in “Revolution”. Instead, the song starts as a straight Power Metal ballad. Here, keyboard sorceress Elena Alonso pushes herself more into the foreground. But the musicians must have an itchy skin, so it develops into an 80s rock anthem. Here, too, Roberto Cappa keeps pounding his drumheads. “Shutting Down” leans on the opener at the beginning, outdated technique. What follows is again metal of the 80s. The title “Time For War” sounds combative. The music as well. A big, ballad-like midtempo stomper, with slamming riffs. The keyboard carpets are omnipresent, but fitting to the sound. And Elena then also presents her solo on the keys. I already mentioned the brilliant guitar playing. “Never Again” is the furious finale of this EP.

When I read that “Broken Puppets” is a concept EP, I already had my doubts. But luckily all five songs sound fresh, heavy and are varied. Can you call Artaban’s Redemption a Spanish All-Star-Band? I think so. And these five musicians do their job exceptionally well. It makes you wish for a complete album. Keep it up!

Lineup:

Alvaro Weik (Unbound) – Guitars
Roberto Cappa (Dark Moor) – Drums
Francesco Ferraro (Freedom Call, Vexillum) – Bass
Elena Alonso (Lethargus) – Keyboards
Ivan Giannini (Vision Divine, Derdian) – Vocals

Track list:

• Obsolete Tech
• Revolution
• Shutting Down
• Time For War
• Never Again