Omen: The Curse (1986)

Omen is an early example of what has come to be known as U.S. power metal.  This is a style that is very distinct from the European style, particularly the so-called "flower metal" style that has risen primarily in the Scandinavian countries.  Think Sonata Arctica, Stratovarius and others like that.  The American style is more focused on riffs and aggression, though it is obviously not close to thrash metal. 

Prior to this album, I had only heard Omen's debut album, Battle Cry.  This is the band's third album.  I have liked everything I have heard from the band, but given their underground cult status, their material is not easy to come by, no matter what format it is in, and can be pricey.  So it is not often I come across one of their albums.

The band's lyrics often deal with fantasy epic material, such as on "Teeth of the Hydra" and "Bounty Hunter".  Their sound is melodic, yet heavy, with doom-laden riffs that are played at a much faster pace.  Think Trouble on speed.  There are some slower tracks, keeping some variety in the release.  Vocalist J.D. Kimball has a rich tenor that he uses to terrific effect and matches well with the soaring solos herein. 

Omen fits in well with the early U.S. power metal scene, sounding similar to groups like Manilla Road, and even Manowar.  Their sound is melodic, yet powerful, and it is clear why this band was so influential on the burgeoning genre.  Unfortunately, vocalist Kimball would leave the band after this album and they were in for some rough years.  But their early work is terrific.

Initial Impressions: Omen: Battle Cry

When most people think of American metal in the 1980's, they think of hair bands that may or may not actually be metal. They think of groups like Motley Crue, Poison, Whitesnake, Warrant, and the like. However, other forms of metal were also taking hold. There was of course the thrash metal scene. Arising out of that was the death metal scene. But the power metal scene was also taking form in the U.S. Influenced by the NWOBHM almost exclusively, a sound was emerging that was not as frenzied as thrash, but was by no means less powerful. Manowar was perhaps the best example of this. Omen is another one.

One can easily hear that Omen is influenced by Iron Maiden. It is obvious from the interweaving guitar melodies around the main drum and bass riff and the soaring vocals. The band also occasionally shows off its ability to do the galloping riffs Iron Maiden is well-known for. The music is mid-paced, not real fast, but not slow either. The vocals are delivered in a rich, low tenor. The songs are all right around the four minute mark and are very catchy. They don't drag at all or rush things. Everything is well-developed.

This is a band that is somewhat forgotten from the mid 1980's. But, they were an important part of the development of power metal in the U.S. Along with groups like Manowar and Manilla Road, Omen helped to push this newer genre further in the U.S.