Hailing out of Atlanta, Georgia, USA in 1994, this American power metal band has already gained a legendary status. Named after the deathless warriors in Lloyd Alexander's 'The Prydain Chronicles' novels, the band Cauldron Born released their first demo tape in 1995, and a following full-length album 2 years later. A second demo also surfaced (both demos are also available on a compilation CD, entitled 'Gods Of Metal', before a sophomore album was recorded in 2002. The band fell apart shortly thereafter.

BORN OF THE CAULDRON (1997/2007) STORMSPELL RECORDS (Limited Edition #008/1000)

Labeling their music Epic Barbarian Metal back in 1995 might not have been the right sales trick. But nonetheless, it must have appealed to the hard core fans this kind of music is created for. Though I am not sure I agree with the label (it gives me an image of Manowar-ish proportions), I'd rather call this power/prog, with strong emphasis on the power part. Cauldron Born could not have been more passé the year they started out. And I think it's because of that they are today enjoying a cult status. 'Born Of The Cauldron' is filled with every metal cliché possible, but I can't see any fault with that. I like this kind of music. And besides, it's impossible to ridicule such talent. There is no denying the killer guitar-riffs, the tight rhythm section, and the constantly wailing vocals. And to back up the great musicianship, you have equally skilled songwriting. This is not your cookie cutter power metal, but rather a thoroughly crafted album. And therein lies the prog part for me. Mind you, Cauldron Born are no Dream Theater or Queensrÿche clones, and they are not aiming to be either. If I should try to liken them to anyone, it would have to be Fates Warning and Crimson Glory. So if you are a fan of mentioned bands, this album is for you. Cauldron Born delivers sophisticated songs that take the listener on a musical journey. I can't say that I enjoy every track as much as I do my killer picks, but the entire album do leave a positive impression. 'Born Of The Cauldron' was originally released on Underground Symphony in 1997. But it never reached the level of success that many contemporary bands like HammerFall and Iced Earth gained at the time. Rather it wound up as an underground favorite, many hailing it the best power metal album of the 90's. So it was too bad that not many metal fans were aware of this gem. Thus Stormspell Records took upon themselves to re-release it. 10 years later it is now available again, remastered, and with a Warlord cover as a bonus track. Limited to only 1000 copies, I was lucky enough to score #008! The CD came with a cool patch, and a signature guitar-pick.

Trivia: In 1985 Walt Disney released their animated movie, The Black Cauldron, based on the 'The Prydain Chronicles', the same novels from where this band got their name.

Killer tracks: Crusader, The Final Incantation/In The Dreaming City, In Fate's Eye A King