[7/10] Somehow, melodic metal in its various forms fails to resonate as much as it did say; 5 years ago when conjuring up a quality melodic interlude was something to take hold of. Nowadays, melodies are found in every nook and cranny in the metal scene, save for the stubborn death metallers (and other worthy scenesters) who think anything melodic equals wussy music. In relation to Skyfire, melody reins supreme, along with a windfall of keyboards and flashy guitar runs. This all adds up to something relatively acceptable, but nothing worth holding onto for dear life. Spectral is a confusing album, one that should fall into place, but instead opts to pass by without making any impact.

Brandishing a well-worn brand of neo-classical death metal (think CoB with less vitriol, more polished intensity), Skyfire succeeds only when they don't get to far ahead of themselves. By saying this, the band has a tendency to overdo things with too many sections of over-indulgent guitar and keyboard tactics, but sometimes never amounting to actual songs. Nothing should be taken away from the collective musical prowess of the band, for they have proven themselves to be overly competent players. But, its obvious they apparently cannot wait until the next section to dazzle, choosing to forget key elements in the songwriting department.

Ultimately, Spectral is nothing engaging whatsoever, so much so that there is little worth pointing out that would make anyone stand up and notice. Skyfire's take on the melodic death metal style is admirable in technicality, but has a long way to go in terms of songwriting if they want to hang with the big boys. Regardless of how many fluffy melodies or sparkling keyboard sections presented, song should always be key. A healthy portion of the fat needs to be trimmed off the blubbery physique of Skyfire before we can mention them in the same breath as the mighty Children Of Bodom and Norther.

Related Link: skyfireonline.net