In terms of 'power metal' bands, Germany and Sweden really take lead, and Germany now has a new arrival with Torian. Torian’s new release “Dreams Under Ice” is their first full-length release on the Underground Symphony label.

The opening track “Torian” sets the mood with twin guitarists and Megadeth-style riffs. What I like about this opening track is that Torian uses the entire band for backing vocals and harmonies. In the middle of this song the guitars explode using both rhythm & lead, and the vocals of Marc Hohlweck fit in perfectly.

Marc Hohlweck sounds like Jamie St. James of BLACK 'N' BLUE with a slight touch of Don Dokken. “Into the Winter” mixes both trash and power metal styles to make it one great track.

On “Late Revenge,” drummer David Hambach is allowed to make his pounding assault on the skins. The song has a real flare of good, old Metallica.

“Born to Win” is the highlight track. It's more melodic then most of the tracks, but has good balance, great harmonies, and excellent lyrics. The guitar work ain't too shabby either.

“Mind the Danger” is another ass-kicking tune that lets you know that Torian can go from one extreme to another by switching from hard rock - to power metal - and at the same time, trashing out. You never know what you are going to get from track to track. This CD has it all.

“The Flaming Overture” brings out the piano and acoustic guitar for the first minute then the songs runs into “Souls of Fire” which picks up speed and ends with mellow keyboards and ripping guitar.

This is a very good debut and I can’t wait to see what their next release will bring. One last note -- I think it is pretty cool is that Bobby Rock of Carnival of Souls is thanked on the CD for his inspiration.