RISING FORCE: MARCHING OUT

My interest over the years in Yngwie Malmsteen has been somewhat sporadic. Despite being a superb guitarist I've found his songwriting skills sometimes lacking resulting in albums with strong moments but lacking overall consistency. There are of course exceptions such as the excellent Odyssey where songs take precedence over guitar flash. I did not particularly intend to start reviewing Malmsteen albums, but perusing his recent addition on PA I accidently clicked the star rating line above the album title of Marching Out. Not wanting to leave a rating only in my reviews list I decided to do a full review. I'm actually quite glad I did now because having not listened to Marching Out for years I'm reminded that it's a much better album than I remember.

Marching Out, released in 1985 was his second album and continues in the vein of his 1984 Rising Force debut, combining a classical influenced guitar style with metal. The result is a heavier album with more emphasis on the metal elements though lightning fast classical fuelled guitar runs and solos are not in short supply. The vocals, courtesy of Jeff Scott Soto, who's singing incidentally has improved a lot since these days, play a more dominant roll giving more emphasis to songs. There are some killer riffs and compelling solos but some of the songs fall a little flat such as the ridiculously titled I Am A Viking where not even some great guitar work can save the day. Songs like caught In The Middle and Don't Let It End are very ordinary but the likes of Disciples Of Hell and I'll See The Light Tonight make amends in fine style where the balance between guitar pyrotechnics and a strong tune are spot on. The instrumental title track closes things in a more restrained mode, at least in pace but features some fiery lead work and is another strong piece.

Overall then a good album with some excellent moments, though the inconsistencies stop it short of an essential release.