Review Summary: Overall, Kingmaker is the sort of album that’s good but comes off underwhelming in the context of its predecessor
While Screamer’s brand of classic metal has always been the sort that lends itself to straightforward structures and catchy choruses, their fifth album aims to be their most accessible to date. Much like the shifts undertaken by their peers in Enforcer and Striker among others, Kingmaker is executed with an almost AOR sensibility as the upbeat tempos stay level-headed and the musicianship is solid without getting too exuberant. It may not be the most drastic change, but it’s quite a contrast from the more frantic fist-pumpers that defined 2019’s Highway of Heroes.
For what it’s worth, the band dynamic has adjusted well to meet the task at hand. The vocals are more upfront than they’ve ever been to the point that I initially wondered if they had changed singers, showcasing a Paul Stanley-esque howl that confidently carries the hooks without getting overbearing. The guitar tone also feels a little thicker, supplemented by bass playing that’s also more prominent than usual, and the subtle keyboard patches sprinkled throughout give it a little extra character.
But with that said, there are times where the album seems to lack a certain spark. Everything is competent, but certain songs would’ve benefitted from more in-your-face choruses while others could’ve gotten a little more oomph in the riffs or drumming. Fortunately, it’s not the sort of thing that derails the whole experience as there are enough good songs for Kingmaker to stay enjoyable. “Chasing the Rainbow” is the most standout track with its speedy rhythms and stirring chorus dipping into power metal territory that “Ashes and Fire” follows up as a tight mid-tempo contrast. “The Traveler” and "Sounds of the Night" also work as simple but fun rockers.
Overall, Kingmaker is the sort of album that’s good but comes off underwhelming in the context of its predecessor. The songs and playing are tight but lack the energy seen on Highway of Heroes without as much to offer in its place. It’s still worth checking out for fans of the band and I can imagine it having more appeal for AOR metal-leaning listeners. It’s a cut above most of the similarly styled stuff that comes out of the Frontiers Records assembly line but a band like Greyhawk scratches this itch a little more effectively.
