Origin:	New York, New York, USA
Genres:	Power Metal

Page online:	February 16, 2011
Last update/review:	January 24, 2015

Holyhell

When you're dealing with bands on Manowar's Magic Circle Records, you have a pretty good idea what to expect -- some sort of bombastic true metal not too far from the masters, and some sort of other connection to Joey's mob wouldn't surprise anyone either. Enter Holyhell, hailing from New York and featuring not only noted guitarist Joe Stump (who's had a successful solo career for ages) but also former Manowar drummer Rhino (though he's recently left). True metal, yes, but not a Manowar clone, for a couple of reasons. First of all, keyboardist Francisco Palomo is a major player here, his keyboards giving a much more symphonic flair, and Stump's guitar histrionics also lend a more unique, neoclassical influence. Then there's vocalist Maria Breon, possessing a fine and clear voice, but again not very Manowar-like. Adopting a European-styled, symphonic power metal style, Holyhell prove to be a worthy addition to the Magic Circle stable.