Crucible
Snatched from the Fire
Reviewed by Doug Van Pelt
This band has the production and promotion down pat. The tape has a very good production, with the drums and lead guitar punching out in the mix. Funny as it seems, this is the type of rock you might expect to hear in some of today's teenage movies. The guitarist and drummer cash in on some of the standard power hooks in the metal genre. This music passes all the tests: hot leads; upfront drums; good rhythms; catchy hooks; real-life lyrics; vocals; variety from song to song yet a focused theme. That's pretty good for a band that sports a female vocalist. (I'm partial to male screamers). I think Sheree Robertson has found a good niche for her voice. She doesn't screech, holding a good low-end, and yet reaches the highs. The lyrics this band writes are a serious heart cry! From the compelling love for the lost in "Roll Away the Stone" to the gripping yet real terror in "Delirious." The music isn't always matching the emotion of the lyrics, but it does rock heavy. Highlights are: the lead solo in "I Want to Know"; the rhythm guitar all through the tape; and the packaging. It's an above-average tape that shows off some good musicianship. For the tape, send $9 to: Crucible, 1212 W. Cinnabar, Phoenix AZ 85021. You can get one of their t-shirts for $10.