Human Fortress - Defenders of the Crown

This is a half-Greek band as the vocalist and drummer (Jioti & Laki) come from Greece. For those not familiar with band’s sound I can describe it as medieval, epic, power metal. In saying so imagine a good mixture of Running Wild, Hammerfall, Kamelot, Falconer with some Iron Maiden elements especially in the double solos in the guitars.
 
Without bringing anything new to the genre Human Fortress sound fresh enough to impress the not-so-few fans of this metal style. After all, the approach here is delicate and nostalgic in the sense that it brings vivid visions of medieval ages, noble knights etc., make it distinct from the “bloodthirsty” bands of epic metal.
 
The production is clear, adding one more plus to the effort. Jioti’s performances are top-notch and the whole band plays with lots of passion. The “only issue” (at least for me) is that the album presents many clichés of the genre. But how not to revel in tracks like: “Defenders of the Crown”, “Gladiator of Rome”, “Holy Grail Mine”, “Border Raid in Lions March”, “Siegen Tower”, “Mortal Sinful Wrath” & “The Valiant”?! The epic metal fans will be totally satisfied by “Defenders of the Crown”. Hail bros!