I have no idea what the hell an "amulance" is (if anything), but Aurora, IL's Amulance released one full-length, "Feel the Pain", on New Renaissance Records in 1989 before presumably fading into obscurity (it was re-released on CD in 2006, and they released a new EP in 2010, so I guess they've reunited). I had never heard of the band before, but a few weeks ago a friend (who had also just discovered 'em) sent me an email and suggested I check out this album. And I'm glad I did, 'cause this is some outstanding traditional heavy metal that reminds me of something like a ballsier (Dickinson-fronted) Iron Maiden with less pomp. Expect strong singing with plenty of soaring high-end wails, superb riffs and melodies, slight thrash leanings, scorching solos, and a killer bass presence—all balled up within a generally high-energy songwriting framework that can do no wrong. I hate it when I keep it so short, but I don't even know what else to say, you know? This is the real deal: Straight up, no bullshit heavy metal that's authentically anthemic and catchy. If you're a fan of classic, old school metal that embodies all the traditional aspects of the genre in fine form, you absolutely cannot go wrong with this record. Highly recommended...
Amulance "Violent Victory"
Amulance "Holocaust"
Amulance "Schizophrenia"
Amulance "Feel the Pain"
As is so often the case with such underrated gems these days, you can't really find physical copies for particularly reasonable prices. Thankfully, the album is available digitally all over place (as is "The Rage Within: And the Aftermath" collection, which compiles their 1986 demo with six otherwise unreleased tracks)—an act I wish all comparable bands from the good ol' days would follow!
Get It
Amazon.com (mp3)
eMusic (mp3)
iTunes (mp3)
Comments
You should also hear the Swedish Ambulance.
12.22.2011 | By Clonedirt
I reviewed one of their 7"s many years ago, I believe.
12.22.2011 | By Andrew Aversionline
Oh, and that’s not a typo, this band is actually called “Amulance”, with no “b”. Go figure…
12.22.2011 | By Andrew Aversionline
If I didn’t read the review before listening the music I would think that this is Bruce Dickinson with “a little faster version of Iron Maiden.” IM hooked me into metal several years ago and I was mainly listening only them for quite some time. Through the years I’ve lost inters in HM and this reminds that I should check some old HM bands from time to time…
12.22.2011 | By Carlos
these guys and Liege Lord, two excellent US power metal bands. reissued by the same label too, I think.
12.22.2011 | By Anonymous
listen to the new Riot record. awesome.
1.4.2012 | By lron