Alterium Stormrage Review
I can’t, in good conscience, look anyone straight in the face and claim to be a big Power Metal fan. It’s just never been a genre that’s clicked for me, too often it comes off as overwrought, tired, and frankly, a little dull. That said, I’ve never questioned the musicianship or sheer technical talent that thrives within it. So, when Stormrage, the new EP from Italian newcomers Alterium, landed in my inbox, I figured, why not give it a spin?
After about an hour of listening on repeat, I found myself unexpectedly taken with the band, particularly with vocalist Nicoletta Rossellini. She bucks the typical Power Metal vocal tropes: no falsetto screeching or theatrical wailing are found here. Instead, her voice sits comfortably in a warm mid-range that feels natural and grounded. She stays well within her abilities, something sorely missing in a genre where vocalists often mistake ambition for skill. Odd as it may sound, there’s a Madonna-esque quality to her tone that struck a nostalgic chord with me. Maybe it’s because I’m an '80s kid, but it just works.
Technically, the EP offers only two brand-new tracks, rounded out by a symphonic version of “Of War & Flames” and a ripping cover of Symphony X’s “Paradise Lost.” I’ll be honest: I’ve never been a huge fan of the original, but Alterium’s take won me over. Rossellini’s vocals elevate it, there’s something ethereal and angelic in her delivery that reshapes the song entirely.
The two new cuts, “Stormrage” and “Sui” are loaded with solid riffs, well-crafted keyboard layers, and smart arrangements. Still, it’s Rossellini who commands center stage with confidence that’s impossible to ignore.
Considering how early Alterium is in their career, Stormrage feels like a strong step forward, a signal flare in the often-overcrowded skies of Power Metal. All this band needs now is the right opening slot on a major tour, and I have no doubt they’ll win over fans from all corners. Even skeptics like me.