Van Canto - "Tribe of Force" (Napalm Records)

Power metal - a cappella style!! If you ever doubted what the human voice was able to achieve then look no further, from power harmonies to throat whistling to baritone bass, Van Canto's basis has been to forgo the traditional support offered by electronics and keyboards in favour of taking the vocal capability to the max! Although there is a strong tribal feel to the singing, thankfully it's not just a multiple vocal acrobat assault with able support coming from the rest of the instruments (and not to mention the people playing them!). Legendary metal screamer Chris Boltendahl joins Van Canto for a unique rendition of Grave Digger's classic track "Rebellion" and Charlie Bauernfeind's (Blind Guardian) production makes for a crystal clear sound that allows the vocals to power thru especially on this truly unique cover of Metallica's 'Master Of Puppets' that would have Ulrich et al no doubt and no doubt wondering 'what if we'd lost that damned orchestra...?'. Indeed, with Van Canto they don't bloody need 'em!! I would definitely like to see Van Canto take this a step further and compete on the commercial vocal circuit not just cos of their obvious capability but truly cos they have a unique opportunity to take metal rock to the unappreciative masses on a new level.

-Shan Siva