The Summary Judgment Reviews:
Title: Of Human Bondage
Artist: Angel Dust
Label: Century Media
Release Date: 3/5/02

Rating: 4 Skulls
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    • Reviewed by Equinox (6/5/02):
    While Angel Dust may not fly around on the wings of dragons, conjuring elementals and rescuing fair maidens from the clutches of deranged sorcerers, they sure do know how to put together a high-quality power metal album. Of Human Bondage, the newest release from this talented group, is concerned less with the fantasy aspect of power metal and more on the heavy metal element. This material can certainly still be described as "epic," but it always sounds in control and not orchestral or operatic. Angel Dust play some very heavy, slower to mid-paced and straight-forward tunes, especially as far as power metal is concerned. They also mix in a few tablespoons of the delicate, sensitive stuff, changing styles without ever straying outside of the power metal realm.

    Lead singer Dirk Thurisch is one of the real highlights of this release, with his strong, confident vocal style. His versatility as a frontman is evident in his tasteful blend of soft, soulful singing, lower register, gruff aggressive tones and warm, unwavering choruses and vocal refrains. He may very well be one of the most versatile singers out there, even sounding like Chris Cornell, Axl Rose and Ozzy Osbourne on some occasions. Ritchie Wilkison's guitar work is another strong point, mainly in his super catchy riffs. His soloing is both powerful and playful, carefully constructed and technically tight. Steven Banx's keys are a great compliment to the music, not overused as is the case with many power metal bands. Dirk Assmuth provides powerful double bass drumming, and Frank Banx's bass playing rounds out this formidable rhythm section.

    As for the standout songs, you need look no further than the beginning. The splendid opening track "The Human Bondage" and equally impressive follow-up "Inhuman" are signatures of the newer Angel Dust sound, with soaring choruses, tight, accurate drumming, memorable guitar riffs. The songwriting is impeccable, and no song section sounds out of place. These guys really have a knack for creating strong moods with their music. "Unite" is the kind of song that makes you want to yell out "Charge!!!!!" while listening (well, if you are me, anyway). This one really rallies the troops with its upbeat drumming and electric energy. Even the "power ballads," songs such as "Disbeliever," "Forever" and "The Cultman" are well-crafted and interesting, and don't sound like they were included as a mandatory power metal album element, or to fill any type of "requirements."

    Of Human Bondage should satisfy the cravings of any power metal fan, or any heavy metal fan looking for something slightly different than your average heavy metal release. Just about everything here is done right, including the clear and true production, which is worthy of mention. Angel Dust are one of the top power metal bands in the world for a reason, and this one testifies to the band's ever-growing talent. These guys have created quite an enjoyable album.
    4 out of 5

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