Heaven's Rage has a lot going for it -- great heavy riffs, some thrash, an overall heavy sound. On the thrashier songs, there's definite Six Feet Deep influence, but for the most part this is standard-fare, hardcore metal that might do well against the likes of Tourniquet or the secular band Skid Row.
The big problems here are the flat vocals and the average lyrics. The vocals aren't bad, but the lead singer doesn't have a wide vocal range. There's a lot of fuzz, and there are deep, throaty, almost-blues vocals to cover for this, but by the end of the album you start to wonder if all the songs were done in the same key. The lyrics, while not deep or particularly exciting, are filled with the message of Christ.
The production quality of Temporary is above average for the independent market. As is typical with independents, the recording level is low, but only rarely is the sound muddy.
Heaven's Rage are not just about music, they're also about ministry, and Temporary reflects this. In the liner notes, the number for the Sanctuary Prayer Line is listed and, before the first track starts, there's an altar call. This may help give an idea of how dedicated these guys are. The songs address such themes as drugs, anger, and other modern-day problems. Taken as a package, Temporary is a great album to put in the hands of lost or struggling friends.
3 tocks
Other coverage for this album
The Phantom Tollbooth 2005Reviewed by Bob FelbergHeaven's Rage morphed into Lucid after this 1993 indy release. The Rage were well schooled on the thrash metal classics -- featuring flashes of Metallica, Megadeth, Tourniquet and Deliverance. Loaded with beefy, dissonant guitars coupled with mosh-inducing crunch! Tons of energy all loaded with speed, hooks, and solos. Lyrics included -- and to the point they are. For example, from the title…The Phantom Tollbooth 1998Reviewed by Josh Spencer"Mmmmmm....BEEFY!" Man, I haven't heard heavy METAL grooves like this in awhile, Heaven's Rage start with a mid-tempo thrash foundation and slam on tons of big 90's power and aggression. The production is very scratchy and organic, but suits the music by providing a rough, textured guitar tone (the same on every track). Most fans of Leaderdogs for the Blind, Jesus Freaks, Erase, Eternal Decision,…
