FAITH FACTOR - Against A Darkened Sky
December 5, 2008, 15 years ago
(Retroactive)
The full-length debut from this NJ-based Christian outfit features vocal calling card Norm “Ski” Kiersznowski (using his given name, for the first time), formerly of ‘80s metallers Deadly Blessing. On tap are eight songs (plus grand/orchestral intro and closing prayer), all with a decidedly (Deicidedly?) preachy tone, the exception being the ‘Keep It True’ opener, an ode to the German festival of the same name. Said track mentions many old school bands within the lyrics. Speaking of tone, the production is on the thin side. Rather than opt for veiled references (father, son, warriors, etc.) quite a bit are reworked scripture, i.e. overt Heaven/Jesus/God speak. Musically, high quality American power metal (with accent of keyboards), giving Ski the opportunity to belt out those sustained ultra-high notes. Unfortunately the backing voices lack his power and ability. A little editing wouldn’t have hurt too, as the album doesn’t capture the energy of the band’s live performances. The 8:23 acoustic-begun ‘In Remembrance’ power ballad doesn’t feel overly long, but the same can’t be said of the 11:37 ‘Ascend Into Heaven’.
