A monumental unveiling
For those who have partied every day, only one thing remains; to rock the night! Monument, the latest project of former White Wizzard vocalist Peter Ellis, has arrived on the British heavy metal scene with 'Rock The Night' in attempt to revitalize the increasingly flagging genre. The influences of Iron Maiden and Judas Priest are certainly undeniable, with it coming as no surprise that the band have managed to secure a guest appearance from Priest newcomer Richie Faulkner, who lends a fittingly styled guitar solo.
As can be expected, falsetto vocal cries ascend above a racing tempo that is thrust onwards by drummer Arn Rogan. Guitarists Ben Lundy and Dan Panza pair well, offering agile intricacies that fall predictably in between Ellis' animated vocal lines. Also employing effective repetition of the song's title, Monument have done a commendable job of bottling the thirty-year-old heavy metal sound and releasing it with a refreshing sense of liveliness and excitement.
If future releases from metallers Monument continue in this vein, heavy metal fans will have plenty to get excited about. It's very easy to criticise Monument for their relatively emulated sound, but the London-based quintet bear a vigorous energy that superbly captures the spirit of 80s metal. Based on this promising early impression, the British band is set to rock for far longer than just a night. But, with name-sharing American indie/hardcore band Monument only one lucky break away from stardom, now would be an excellent opportunity for Ellis and Co. to change the name of their band before things get horribly confusing (and/or legally complicated!)