We had to wait four years for New York's ZANDELLE to release their follow-up to 2002's "Twilight On Humanity" due to complications during the recording session. There were some band member changes as drummer Bob Delmini left for personal reasons and was substituted by Joe "Jofu" Cardillo. Tension between guitar player T.W. Durfy and the rest of ZANDELLE also grew to the point where Durfy and the band decided to go their separate ways. Consequently, guitarist Anthony Maglio was forced to record all guitar parts on his own. On top of that, when Joe Cardillo injured his hand, the New Yorkers waited patiently until he was healthy again instead of searching for a new drummer.

But now that is all behind them and here is the final product of their labor: "Vengeance Rising". Right from the opening two tracks, "Blood Red Shores" and "Dragon's Hoard", there is no questioning what ZANDELLE are all about: speed and melodies. For those who are not familiar with this band, it may come as a surprise that ZANDELLE are from the United States, even though they show some strong European influences and seem to have no problem emulating the Power Metal style to near perfection.

However, with "Vengeance Rising", ZANDELLE didn't do anything to set themselves apart from the other Power Metal bands out there. Even after listening to the CD a few times, there's not much that stands out. The songs are good, the power is there as well as the catchy choruses, but it all seems to lack that special something that makes the songs memorable. The highlight of the album would have to be "The Beowulf Trilogy", consisting of the songs "Awakening", "Vengeance Rising" and "Ancient Tale Of Valor". The album also ends with the nine-minute plus "Necromancer".

"Vengeance Rising" is a good effort from ZANDELLE, but most likely will not elevate their status in the realm of Power Metal. In order to do that, the band will have to be more creative in their song writing in order to rise above other bands of similar styles. Nevertheless, the potential is definitely there.