It would be nice to talk about Warmachine in terms of who they sound like, their influences or whose riffs they’re borrowing. But the truth is, ultimately, Warmachine has a sound that is uniquely and indisputably theirs.

The album kicks off with an aggressive riff reminiscent of Anthrax, but soon proves that it will be a much more pleasantly melodic adventure than anything thrash has ever touched. Their incredible catchiness and Joe di Taranto’s pleasant vocals make Beginning Of The End an instant easy listen.

Warmachine has a solid heavy metal base, but with near-regal power metal melodies and neoclassical vocals – often in the style of Michael Kiske, but with a mellow voice that’s uniquely Joe di Taranto. During “Fate” and “Eternity,” the album hits an uncharacteristic low, but all’s forgiven once the seventh track kicks in with its tribal syncopation and unforgettable chorus. Beginning of the End keeps the promise it made at the start, delivering classic power metal lines interspersed with chest-thumping guitar punches.

Beginning Of The End seamlessly carries the listener from one fantastic melody to the next. The result? A superb, highly-polished sound that sounds like the mature skill of musicians bearing twice as many years (they’re much younger, in truth), but with all the skull-bashing metal you came here to find.

Their album can be purchased for $12.97 at www.CDbaby.com, or in MP3 format for $7.77. It’s guaranteed to be the most played and replayed dollars you’ll ever spend.