FORTÉ

4th album from 1999 by this veteran American Power/ Thrash Metal band from Oklahoma. With "Rise Above", FORTÉ continued the direction established on "Destructive", embracing a more focused and direct approach while retaining the technical skill, speed and epic character that had always defined the band's sound. It also marked the second album featuring Dave Thompson on vocals, further strengthening a line-up that had found a particularly effective identity.

One of the album's most appealing qualities is the way it balances the power of American Thrash Metal with the melodic strength and sophisticated songwriting associated with classic US Power Metal. The material showcases a confident and mature band delivering energetic and dynamic compositions while maintaining its distinctive identity during a period when this style was far from fashionable. Over the years, "Rise Above" has come to be regarded as one of the strongest releases from the band's original era before its later comeback.

Recommended for fans of: VICIOUS RUMORS, HEATHEN, FLOTSAM AND JETSAM, FORBIDDEN, METAL CHURCH, SACRED REICH.