Ah yes, real metal…there’s nothing quite like it. This New York duo looks to the late 70’s/early 80’s for their inspiration and sound. More specifically, EARLY MAN proudly fly the flag of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (ANGEL WITCH, DIAMOND HEAD, BLITZKRIEG, SAXON, etc.) and classic MERCYFUL FATE. But don’t mistake Closing In as some lame attempt at being “retro.” This is honest, full-on metal with attitude. Just like the classics, EARLY MAN dish out killer riffs, memorable vocal lines, and plenty of variety among the tracks. Vocalist/guitarist Mike Conte leads the attack with his accomplished guitar work and a variety of vocal ranges ranging from mid-range grittiness to higher register battle cries. While there are a few weak songs, there is more than enough killer material to adjudge Closing In a strong album and an impressive debut. Given the fact that there’s way too much soulless so-called metal out there, EARLY MAN’s arrival couldn’t have come at a better time. (Matador Records)
