I recently reviewed SERPENT RIDER from Seattle, and now I have their twin from France, PALANTYR. Plenty of similarities abound between the two bands. Both female-fronted and both are playing a sound heavily influenced by the late ’70s and early ’80s traditional Power Metal scene that was at the forefront of that time. The song ‘Ravenous’ from PALANTYR is the one song that shares much of the same dynamics as SERPENT RIDER, and both bands sort of walk the fine line in commonality in their particular songwriting approach. You can go check out my review here on this site for my thoughts and words, and it can carry over much to what I have to say about PALANTYR. If anything, they are a bit more traditional, old school in their output, not mystical or mysterious sounding. The sound is rooted in bands like MESSIAH FORCE, early WARLOCK and HELLION, and what they were putting forth in their heyday. Additionally, vocalist Athena may have a bit more power and range in her vocal approach. She has more variety beyond just her singing. So, not to further dwell on the previous review, but as I listened to this release, the production is also along the same lines in terms of sound and instrument clarity. SERPENT RIDER has probably the most interesting logo and artwork. Both have a similar runtime and release date as well. I must apologize, because I maybe did not have given a distinction or fair review on PALANTYR as an entity within itself, and also, I guess SERPENT RIDER is still fresh on my mind. Both bands are good and offer a sound truly an ode to that bygone era, and both bands play very well in their particular craft. It comes done mainly to regions and how you connect or encounter first. www.facebook.com/palantyrspeednheavy, www.facebook.com/jawbreakerrecords