Glamour Of The Kill - 'The Summoning' (Album Review)
Thursday, 27 January 2011
Written by Heather McDaid
It would be fair to say that since their formation in 2007, Glamour of the Kill have had their share of achievements with just EPs in their back catalogue. Since supporting big names such as Avenged Sevenfold and Bullet for my Valentine and opening the main stage at Download ’08, the band have been working on their first studio release ‘The Summoning’.
The album is doused in metal influences from over the decades and, overall, produces a very clean cut release. Opening with an eerie crescendo into the explosive riff of 'If Only She Knew', it is clear that the York quintet aim to grab your attention from the off. They have absolutely no fear in producing great riffs and breakdowns and teaming them with a much lighter, catchier chorus - no surprise as they’ve claimed they are fans of pop and heavy metal.
They have a fine balance of heaviness in both instrumentation and vocals throughout. The only break offered on the album from the relentless riffs is found in 'Malevolent Reign', a two minute acoustic that is used as more of an intermission. Producing diverse, quality tracks is something the band have proved they can tackle with ease, but instead of using their acoustic as a break, it would have been nice to see them explore the track more.
Without a doubt the band have worked hard to create a well produced and undeniably attractive album to anyone interested in the genre. If a ‘best’ track was to be chosen, 'Feeling Alive' – the first single – would be an obvious choice. Personally, 'Here, Behind These Walls' is another favourite – a track that’s main focus seems to be lighter vocals and slick guitar solos.
The final track 'The Summoning' seems the perfect ending to the album. Picking up the acoustic sound once more and building up to the dirtier metal guitars for one final soiree, the band take their chance to showcase their blatant talent as it fades to silence.
The only real criticism I can offer is wondering whether the band can progress with their next release to gain more of their own identity instead of landing in an obvious comparison. It’s not necessarily a fault of their own, but more that smaller bands often find themselves in direct comparison to certain influences.
It’s inevitable that Glamour of the Kill will be compared to bands such as Bullet for My Valentine, but this studio release shows their capabilities to reach those same dizzying heights. They’re talented, hardworking and this release will no doubt gain them a number of fans. They certainly deserve it.
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They have a fine balance of heaviness in both instrumentation and vocals throughout. The only break offered on the album from the relentless riffs is found in 'Malevolent Reign', a two minute acoustic that is used as more of an intermission. Producing diverse, quality tracks is something the band have proved they can tackle with ease, but instead of using their acoustic as a break, it would have been nice to see them explore the track more. 
