Review AXEL RUDI PELL “Risen Symbol”

Expectations fulfilled. The fans will love the album. Period. This could be the review of the latest album by German guitar wizard Axel Rudi Pell. But OK, let’s take a closer look at the new longplayer called “Risen Symbol”.

Consistency in a fast-changing world is what you get from the German guitarist. As you would expect, Pell fires his passion for classic rock and metal at you. Inspired by greats such as Led Zeppelin, Deep Purple and Rainbow, you get what you expect from Axel Rudi Pell, this time manifested in a cover version of ‘Immigrant Songs’, originally by the aforementioned Led Zeppelin. Pell stays close to the original, yet gives the classic a touch of his own. This includes a blistering solo section in which the blond axeman shows off all his skills.

The album opens with a dramatic intro called “The Resurrection,” followed by a heavy blast. “Forever Strong” is a raw power metal track that I wasn’t expecting to hear that early on in the album. However, it’s a great way to get people into this album.

“Guardian Angel” is more anthemic and in the typical Pell-fashion. The album features perfectly crafted vocal melodies, the excellent voice of longtime singer Johnny Gioeli and the filigree guitar work, which are all trademarks of the band. Neary every ARP album features an 10-minute epic, and this time the guitarist has also crafted such a cinematic song called “Ankhaia”. The song is driven by the powerful drumming of Bobby Rondinelli and features some oriental sounds. It has a kind of Led Zeppelin 70s vibe, swinging with each note while still sounding modern and contemporary.

The next track, ‘Hell’s on Fire’, sees the five piece combine heaviness with catchy melodies, just as we are used to when it comes to the sound of the German guitar wizard.

The next track, “Crying in Pain”, is a ballad with a strong emotional impact. It’s followed by “Right on Track”, which is an anthemic rock song. The first notes of ‘Taken By Storm’ mark the end of ‘Risen Symbol’. The album closes with another soulful moment, at least during the first third. The rest of the song is a pounding hard rock tune that shows all the trademarks of the band, including another inspirational hint when it comes to the sound of Plant and Page.

Axel Rudi Pell delivers 100% to expectations. The latest album features the signature sound of the guitarist and bandmates. There isn’t much new, but there’s still a lot to explore while cruising through these ten songs.