Amaseffer(Israel) - Exodus: Slaves For Life (2008)

Amaseffer biography
Formed By Erez Yohanan in June of 2004 in Israel, Amaseffer is a band who's opening trio of albums is a concept piece focusing on the exodus biblical story. The name AMASEFFER in fact literally refers to the name of Israelites in the Bible which means, "People Of The Holy Book". After recruiting the rest of the members of the band including guitarist Yuval Kramker and another guitarist by the name of Hanan Avramovich, the band started a search for a lead singer which lead them to Vanden Plas frontman Andy Kuntz. However, after a long period unavoidable delays both parties decided to split and three piece AMASEFFER was forced to begin their search once more. During a long period of recording and uncompromised auditions the band was finally mentioned a singer which would be able to work on the album, and that was Mats Leven who had formally worked with acts such as Yngwie Malmsteen. Finally, four years after the project was started the band had a finished album which was soon picked up for release. To make comparisons to other bands the first and easiest band to compare them to is fellow Israelis ORPHANED LAND with their heavy metal sound mixed with Egyptian and world influences with a kind of 'film-score' sound according to founding man Erez Yohanan.

Their first cd "Slaves For Life" exhibits the years of work and effort put into it, a strong concept album with lengthy songs and a lot of variety making it a very good listen for those who like their music heavy. Although the concept may be religious it certainly does not take away from the music if you're not a religious person, having a strong story and a well done away of approaching the topic, this is far from a church hymn. With the core of the band being three members, one Drummer and two Guitar players the band has a long list of guest players on their first album, "Slaves For Life" which gives them a very large and full sound. The trio's modo, as they proudly proclaim, is "Anything goes!" and it works very well.

With two more cds to complete their opening trilogy, AMASEFFER is off to a strong start and are highly recommended to fans of prog metal.