Cyprus is hardly what many would consider the centre of the heavy metal universe. So when I discovered that Diphtheria actually hailed from the region (Nicosia to be exact), I can’t say I was really expecting much in the way of surprises.

What made this release even less appealing was finding out that the bulk of this album was recorded some years ago.

So with no expectation, I hit play on the CD player, and duly gave my full attention to the band’s output, predicting that it wouldn’t be long before I hit the skip button to help speed up the disc’s fifty minute duration.

But much to my surprise, I actually enjoyed Diphtheria’s debut effort To Wait For Fire. Founded back in 1993, Diphtheria managed to put out a few demos within the first few years of them entering the local metal scene, which amassed the band a small but devoted following. However, it wasn’t until 2003 that Diphtheria (who comprise of vocalist Nicholas Leptos, guitarists Phivos Papadopoulos and Socrates Leptos, bassist Alexi David and drummer Stavros Pamballis) decided to enter the studio to record what was supposed to be their debut full-length effort. But although completed, the album remained in the vaults.

Five years on, and fifteen since the band first formed, Pitch Black Records have unearthed Diphtheria’s debut album To Wait For Fire, and released it for the very first time.

As mentioned earlier, I really wasn’t expecting much from a progressive/power metal band from Cyprus, but To Wait For Fire is actually an enjoyable listen for the most part.The opening track “Ending Ceremony” is a good indication of what Diphtheria are capable of. Leptos, although a little flat in places, has a solid operatic voice, while the twin guitarists serve up some interesting riff structures (If a little familiar at times).

Although most of the album is as solid as the opener, tracks such as “I Believe,” the progressive “As Darkness Casts Its Veil,” the Iron Maiden-like “Sleeping With The Worms,” “Living To Die” and “God Wanted (Apply Here)” (the latter being lifted off the band’s 1995 demo) are the strongest cuts on the album.

The recordings might be a little raw sounding, and the band lacking the song writing finesse of a truly seasoned act, but To Wait For Fire is a fun listen, and a release that will finally give Diphtheria some well earned (if a little posthumous) credit as one of Cyprus’ leading metal acts.

www.myspace.com/diphtheriametal