Formed in 2005, Faith Factor is a power metal band from New Jersey, USA. This Christian metal acts biggest claim to fame, so far, is their legendary singer, Ski (ex-Deadly Blessing).
07/07/07 (2007) METALLIC ARCHANGEL (Demo)
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Line-up: Ski - Vocals |
It didn't take long before the buzz on this band reached the farthest corners of the metal world. With the legendary Ski (ex-Deadly Blessing) turning to Christ and forming a Christian power metal band, people were very anxious to hear the result. This demo EP is the first public sign of life. Originally slated to be released the 7th of July, 2007 (thus the title, and the obvious reference to 777), the 3 track demo delivers some crushing heavy metal indeed! Faith Factor belongs in the galloping metal genre, but with a noticeable difference. Whereas bands in this category usually are of the dungeons & dragons sort, Faith Factor are out to convince you with a bold Christian stance. But luckily they also convince you musically. So even though we only get 3 tracks on this demo, they are of enough variety and span to leave you satisfied. The first track is a power metal monster, with a chunking riff, and Ski's soaring vocals. The lyrics sums up the bands agenda, as Christian metal warriors. "The Angel And The Butterfly" is a ballad, with a nice piano intro and a great melodic melody. But expect no sappy radio friendly stuff, as the song grows into another powerful metal romp as it goes. The final track, entitled "Deceiver", is yet another galloping heavy metal attack. Carried by Ski's wailing, this song sports an epic flavor that suits this band. Then suddenly the demo is over, and you are left hungry for more. I find '07/07/07' to be one of the better demos in a long time, and I can't wait to hear more from this magnificent band.
AGAINST A DARKENED SKY (2008) RETROACTIVE
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Line-up: Norman "Ski"
Kiersznowski - Vocals |
The demo Faith Factor released in 2007 was one of the biggest surprises for me in a long time. Thus I was eagerly awaiting a full length debut from these purveyors of true Christian heavy metal. The band quickly signed with Retroactive Records, and in November 2008 the new album was released. Then it happened, as it does so many times when expectations are throwing you or a loop, the final result fails to deliver. The first thing that hit me was that the production on the album was no better than on the demo. It is actually quite muddy, and not at all representative for a 2008 recording. Luckily it isn't the production on an album that makes or brakes a band in the heavy metal realms. But it is still a noticeable disadvantage here. The songs aren't as strong as I had hoped for either, and the ending "Sinner's Prayer" is pretty unnecessary, if you ask me (how many times do you want to listen to this track after the initial spin?). But on the positive side, there is still plenty of great US power metal present on 'Against A Darkened Sky'. Chugging riffs, pounding drums, a thriving bass and wailing vocals, what more can a metal heart ask for? I find Faith Factor to be a very welcome band, playing this kind of heavy metal music with such a straight forward Christian message. Not many others are doing it, at lest not that I am aware of. And it seems that Faith Factor enjoys fan status as much in the secular circuits as they do in the Christian scene. 'Against A Darkened Sky' might not have been all that I had hoped for. But it is still a stellar power metal album, from a band with lots of integrity and conviction. Also gotta mention the stellar cover art. In a world of CGI and other computerized artwork, it is refreshing to see an awesome looking, old school, painted metal cover again!
Killer tracks: Keep It True, Armor Of God, Divine Temptations
Ski guest appearances:
Temple Of Blood - 'Prepare For The Judgment Of Mankind'
Related artists:
