The oddly-named Ordan Ogan date back to 1996, recording several
demos in the late nineties and albums in 2004 and 2008 before
releasing Easton Hope in 2010.
Apparently their earlier work is more in a folk metal vein, but on
Easton Hope the folk influences are not to be found, the band
streamlining their brand of epic, orchestral power metal.
Like many European power metal bands, Ordan Ogan is less about expanding
musical boundaries than gathering influences and perfecting their craft.
Plagiarists these guys aren't -- while the band doesn't sound overtly
original, they manage to take the best of power metal and blend in
symphonic and progressive influences to great effect.
The production is ultra-crystal-clear, nary a note or sound out of place,
and to their credit there's plenty of depth and variation among
the songs.
The power metal field has been oversaturated for so many years now,
making it all the more difficult for newer bands to make a name for
themselves.
Ordan Ogan may be on their way to the major league, but even if they
don't make it, Easton Hope stands proud as a well-done power metal
album.
