The German Predator was founded in 2002 when the melodic power metal band Stormblade and the thrashcore band Mindless Crime merged their bands. Now, in 2004, Predator, despite their pretty corny name, deliver their self-titled debut album and I must say it’s pretty impressive.

Predator consists of 10 modern heavy metal tracks that brim with intensity. Where most modern metal acts tend to choose a clinical production, these Germans have opted for an old school and extremely heavy sound. The guitars are pushed into the front and with good reason I might add. Predator features riffs of such a high level that they are far above the riffs on an average heavy metal release.

They are melodic, powerful, heavy, intense and diverse.

My only real problem with this album involves the vocals; their slightly dull and bland. Singer Marko Osterholz has a good voice but somehow I feel he never uses it to the fullest of his abilities. During certain tracks he even sounds like a commercial punk rock vocalist who is trying to sell his album to the masses.

Predator is a very successful debut album that I can highly advice to anyone who is into modern heavy metal. Not all songs are of the highest quality, but there’s definitely enough good stuff to keep you interested.