CD Reviews:

Supongo que mi amigo Lance de Nightmare Records habrá agarrado la distribución de este grupo porque este cd data de hace tres años atrás.

Como verán en el titulo, estamos hablando de una banda latina, mas precisamente de Puolto Lico, es decir Puerto Rico.

Nacieron en 1996 bajo el nombre de Plenitud, como un proyecto de los tres hermanos Robles y ya tienen en su haber un demo EP y este disco.

Recrean un heavy metal power con ciertos aires a Rata Blanca en su etapa más melódica, por el timbre de voz de Héctor, que tira a ser agudo, pero la temática lírica es cristianas.

El disco se compone por una intro y ocho temas de buena calidad, y si bien aclare que la banda se perfila a un power metal, hay temas que son mas acelerados, y la voz se torna mas hacia lo que el trash acostumbra, con mas alaridos que voces melódicas, como es el caso de “Cae, cae” (será un tema dedicado al cantante de Bravo?, solo bromeo).

Independientemente a que no soy religioso y a veces se me hace muy tedioso escuchar cada 5 palabras que mencionan a Dios, hay algunas ideas que me gustan en las letras de PdS, y es curioso que anoche estuviera curioseando información de la iglesia de Satán. Será un mensaje?.

Para aquellos que (dado que es en español) soporten varios temas con la temática cristiana, definitivamente les va a encantar este cd, ya que su música es buena.

La agrupación se perfila para su próximo disco que ya tiene titulo “The Days of Egypt” hacia un power metal y speed/trash, algo que se va a alejar un poco de esta producción que estoy comentando ahora.

Puerto Rico based Pacto de Sangre was put together in 1996 by brothers Carlos (drums), Mizael (bass) and Eliezer (guitars) Robles.  Initially using the moniker Plenitud, the three rounded out the bands first official line up upon recruiting guitarist Felix Guzman and vocalist Luis Vila.  When it was later discovered that another band was also calling itself Plenitud, a permanent name change was made at that point to Pacto de Sangre.  Hector Garcia (a.k.a. Metalomen) soon replaced Luis Vila on vocals, finalizing the line up that went on to record Pacto de Sangre’s 2002 three song demo Arrepientete and its 2004 full length debut Alerta.

Alerta finds this talented five piece unit taking a foundation of power metal and infusing it with elements of thrash and melodic metal.  Yes, there is a bit of variety here but in the end this proves a good thing in that it helps prevent the album from becoming a trite listen.  The catchy “Alerta” and the ballads “Ve A Predicar” and “Amen”, for example, showcase the more melodic side to the bands songwriting skills while the anthem-like “Holy Ghost” and the incredibly “Lay Ley de Dios” give rise to a power metal influence.  Pact o de Sangre even puts an extreme facet to its sound on display on two thrash flavored numbers in “Cae,Cae” and “Arrepientete”.

It is worth pointing out that only two tracks here -  “Holy Ghost” and “Warning” – feature lead vocals in English.  Metaloman, irregardless, proves a very fine vocalist who brings a high end and clean lead vocal style that helps lend to the bands comparisons to the likes of Jacobs Dream, Queensryche, Sacred Warrior, Haven and Iron Maiden.  Felix Guzman and Eliezer Robles form a balanced dual guitar attack (check out the lead work on “Arrepientete” and “Lay Ley de Dios”) and help anchor the bands sound with the rhythm section of Carlos and Mizael Robles.  Mizael also contributes the extreme vocals to both thrash based numbers in addition to spicing up several others with his harsh delivery.   

Production values prove quite solid for an independent release but, as a result of an element of thinness in the mix, would improve with a slight touch of big budget polish.

“Alerta” gets underway to an introduction highlighted by an ominous blend of keyboards and narration.  The keyboard solo that ensues transitions to a forward wall of rhythm guitar, a melodic metal environment put in place as the song cruises at an upbeat tempo to an infectious chorus reinforced by vocal harmonies.  All in all, an effective album opener with a huge hook you will be challenged to rid of your mind.

The Sacred Warrior style power metal of “Holy Ghost” begins to an acoustic guitar solo before a brazen rhythm guitar takes over the mix.  Following a piercing death metal-like scream, the song surges through its first and second verse in anthemic fashion, the authoritative setting maintained for a deep and resounding chorus reflecting an epic feel.  The subject matter to “Holy Ghost” is self-explanatory:

The time has come for the Spirit to take place
In the hearts and the minds of every man
The Spirit I say is a Spirit we know
The Spirit of God is the Holy Ghost

Metalomen really shines here with his high end vocal delivery.

“Ve A Predicar”, the first of the albums two ballads, is carried through its first verse and chorus by a gentle blend of piano and quietly played guitar.  Once a crunchy rhythm guitar interweaves with the piano, however, a more resolute scene is preserved as the song moves ahead to its emotionally charged chorus one more time.  A very compelling number that reflects a softer side to the bands songwriting skills.

“Cae, Cae” is a thrash influenced track in which bassist Mizael Robles takes on a heavy duty vocal approach that borders on the extreme.  While the song generates a plethora of energetic and guitar driven initiative and is not bad from a musical standpoint, I find the gruff feel to the vocal delivery here to almost come across overbearing.  I tend to pass on this one though I can see how those into the thrash genre might get into it.

A commercial hard rock direction is taken on “Da Verdad”.  This is another piece I find to not quite make the grade, coming across somewhat restrained while failing to deliver the same noteworthy melody the albums better material brings to the table.  It is this reviewers opinion other tracks here do a better job showcasing the bands potential.

The ballad “Amen”, on the other hand, represents Pacto de Sangre at its very best.  The song slowly moves through its first verse to a quietly played guitar line, not picking up in pace until the rhythm guitar steps forward in time to shore up an infectious chorus delivered in poignant fashion.  One of the albums finest moments takes place when a guitar driven instrumental section is followed by a lengthy stretch of spoken word narration.

“Arrepientete” falls victim to the same thrash tendencies characteristic to “Cae, Cae”.  If I were to invite a comparison this one gives rise to more of a power metal influence (not to mention featuring a killer guitar solo); that being said, the heavy handed feel to the gruff vocal delivery of Mizael again holds things back.  Once more, fans of the thrash genre will find a home here but more often than not I end up hitting the skip button.

“La Ley de Dios” showcases a speed metal/power metal sound that brings to mind a combination of early Deliverance and classic Barren Cross.  Introduced to a hard hitting riff that gradually builds in intensity, the song energetically storms ahead prior to transitioning to a prevailing chorus fortified by Mizael’s harsh growls.  A run of fast fingered lead guitar work brings out the best in a piece that does a good job combining the best elements of the melodic and the extreme.

“Warning”, an English version of the albums title track, delivers the same catchy hook and upbeat impetus along with a meaningful message:

When time has come
The ending at last
Tribulation, suffering nations
The sun, moon and stars
Will all turn to black
You’ll see the sun forever die

You will see the Son of Man
Glory, power and might
So you better be prepared
Or you will never see the Light

What impresses me most about Pacto de Sangre is its ability to compose a high quality composition, the likes of “Alerta”, “Holy Ghost”, La Le de Dios” and the two ballads reflecting the strength of the bands songwriting skills.  On the other hand, the thrash based numbers fail to do it for me – again, those into thrash will certain get into these; if such is the case then add 5 or 10 points to the albums final score – and the albums production could use a bit of polish.  All around, Pacto de Sangre proves quite the talented outfit that I am looking forward to hearing more from in the future.  And that is a very good thing because at the time to this writing Pacto de Sangre is in the pre-production stage of its 10 song follow up release The Days Of Egypt.  The album will reportedly movie in a more defined power metal style while blending in elements of speed metal and thrash.

Review by: Andrew Rockwell

Track Listing: “(Intro) Alerta” (5:46), “Holy Ghost” (4:44), “Ve a Predicar” (6:23), “Cae, Cae” (4:12), “De Verdad” (3:31), “Amen” (6:40), “Arrepientete” (3:09), “La Ley de Dios” (5:29), “Warning” (5:08)

Musicians
Hector “Metalomen” Garcia – Lead Vocals
Eliezer Robles & Felix Guzman – Guitars
Mizael Robles – Bass
Carlos Robles – Drums

Guest Musicians
Wilfredo Gonzalez - Keyboards

• www.areuonsomething.com

• www.holysteel.com - Italia

Anche la piccola Porto Rico ha una sua band di hevay metal cristiano, ossia i classic metaller Pacto de Sangre. In realtà “Alerta”, il debutto dei nostri, mescola le carte in modo un po’ inconsueto, presentando un prodotto fin troppo eterogeneo. Infatti nel corso della tracklist abbiamo modo di ascoltare brani di classico heavy metal, accelerazioni power e soprattutto alcune sfuriate di thrash metal rozzo e violento, che possono ricordare in alcuni frangenti i Sepoltura del periodo mediano.
Andando con ordine sottolineiamo subito come le lyrics dei nostri, impregnate fortemente di temetiche cristiane, sono scritte in spagnolo.

Il CD inizia con due buonissimi mid-tempo, ‘Alerta’ e ‘Holy Ghost’, che pongono già in bella evidenza il discreto singer Metaloman; i brani sono arrembanti e riescono a colpire sin dal primo ascolto. Troviamo quindi ‘Ve a predicar’, la prima delle due power ballad del disco; la miscela melodica del brnao è interessante e l’ausilio della lingua spagnola dona al pezzo quel sapore particolare che si riscontra anche in altri gruppi che utilizzano questa lingua (in primis gli spagnoli Tierra Santa). Altro lento, un po’ più potente, dell’album, è ‘Amen’, che si trova più avanti nella tracklist; questo brano è infuso di un’enfasi maggiormente epica e sisotenuto dai riffoni di chitarra di Felix e Eliezer.

Il punto negativo dell’album dei Pacto de Sangre è costituito da pezzi come ‘Cae, cae’, ‘Arrepitete’ e anche ‘La ley de Dios’. Nei primi due brani il sound una sorta di sporco thrash metal suonato male e cantato peggio dal grwol approssimativo e sgangherato del bassista Mizael. ‘La ley de Dios’ viene cantata da entrambi i singer ma il risultato rimane comunque scarso nonostante il pezzo presenti una dinamica meno piatta degli altri due esempi.
Il livello del disco si rialza decisamente con la classica ‘De verdad’ e con la versione in inglese di ‘Alerta’, intitolata ovviamente ‘Warning’.

Come si intuisce dalla copertina del CD, che raffigura diverse sciagure del mondo odierno, i testi delle canzoni dei Pacto de Sangre sono focalizzati su problemi come la guerra e la fame nel mondo, ma anche decisamente impegnati in ambito sociale.
Esempio significativo è il testo di ‘Amen’, una vera e propria denuncia dell’abuso di alcool e droghe: “Gracias Padre por la alabanza / yo creo en tí cada día / me sacaste de drogas y alcohol / de toda esa humana perdición.”

La band è altrettanto determinata nel sottolineare il terrore dei conflitti che determinano genocidi in ‘Alerta’ e nel pregare per il ritorno di Gesù Cristo sulla Terra: “Hermano tú, tienes que orar / y en todo momento, tienes que velar / Pues el día ni la hora nadie lo sabrá / en que el Hijo del Hombre / venga a su Iglesia a buscar / Verán al Hijo del Hombre / Con Gloria y con Poder / y si no estés preparado, / no te puedes is con Él.”

Nel complesso quindi, con ‘Alerta’, siamo di fronte ad un album che presenta diversi spunti interessanti e che sicuramente sarebbe risultato ancor più riuscito se la band avesse optato per seguire soltanto il sentiero del metal classico, che sicuramente viene realizzato con risultati migliori.

Leonardo Cammi

Voto: 6,5/10

• http://www.rockarolla.com.ar

PACTO DE SANGRE: “Alerta” (2004) (Khaosmaster Productions)

1. (Intro) Alerta 2. Holy Ghost 3. Ve a Predicar 4. Cae, Cae 5. De Verdad 6. Amén 7. Arrepiéntete 8. La Ley de Dios 9. Warning

Finalmente llegó, la primera banda centroamericana que me toca comentar, Pacto De Sangre, oriundos de Puerto Rico, y con su disco debut “Alerta”. Quienes grabaron esta placa son Héctor García (voz), Felix Guzmán y Eliezer Robles (guitarras), Mizael Robles (bajo), y Carlos Robles (batería), y vaya álbum heterogéneo que lograron, ya que en los 45 minutos que dura el disco la banda se pasea por una amplia gama de estilos, los que incluyen power metal en “Alerta” y “Holy ghost”, thrash en “La ley de Dios”, “Cae, cae” y “Arrepiéntete” (estas dos últimas cantadas por Mizael Robles, quien posee un registro similar al de nuestro Larry Zavala), heavy clásico en “De verdad” y hasta una balada, “Ve a predicar”. Un detalle que no es menor (y que ya deben haber notado por los títulos de las canciones), es que Pacto De Sangre es una banda cristiana, cosa que queda aun mas clara en el contenido de las letras, abiertamente en contra de las drogas, el sexo libre, el alcohol y demás tentaciones mundanas, a la vez que instan a adorar a Dios, caso concreto es “Amen”, donde García recita una especie de plegaria agradeciéndole a Jesús haberlo sacado del camino de la perdición. Resumiendo, “Alerta” es una acabada muestra de metal boricua; ahora sólo resta que Pacto De Sangre termine de definir cual es estilo que mejor le cuadra para lograr su sonido definitivo.
Sitio web: www.pactodesangre.com

• http://www.nolifetilmetal.com  

 Pacto de Sangre - Alerta (independent) 2004

1. "Alerta" [intro] (5:46)
2. "Holy Ghost" (4:44)
3. "Ve a Predicar" (6:23)
4. "Cae, Cae" (4:12)
5. "De Verdad" (3:31)
6. "Amén" (6:40)
7. "Arrepiéntete" (3:09)
8. "La Ley de Dios" (5:29)
9. "Warning" [English verison of "Alerta"] (5:08)

Pacto de Sangre are a Christian metal band from Puerto Rico. To describe this band as heavy metal is probably the best description that I could come up with. Of course there are many sub-genres within the heavy metal genre and Pacto de Sangre incorporate many influences from within these sub-genres. A little more than half this CD I would describe as power metal with high, clean vocals and galloping guitar riffs. "Alerta" starts off with the title track which is a perfect example. Vocalist Metaloman has a good voice for this sort of music, although I must confess that his accent and the Spanish lyrics come off as a bit odd to my American ears. "Holy Ghost" continues in a similar style, adding a bit more aggression and intensity. There is even a growly vocal in the introduction of the song. "Ve a Predicar" starts off as a mellow, piano and guitar-led ballad but breaks into a slightly more upbeat rocker towards the end of the song. Some ballads sound very cheesy to me, but I really liked this song. "CAE, CAE" is a full throttle thrash metal song complete with quick downbeats, chunky guitar riffs and thrashy, throaty vocals. I am not positive, but I am pretty sure this is a completely different vocalist (it is Mizael). "De Verdad" returns to a more mid-paced, melodic heavy metal sound. Personally I think this is where the band excels. Metaloman sounds particularly good here and hits the high notes without sounding strained. "Amén" slows things down again. This track I would describe as a power ballad. Personally, I think that "Ve a Predicar" is the better of the two ballads. The spoken word part in the middle of "Amén" comes off as a bit odd to me. It almost sounds like Metaloman is preaching right in the middle of the song. The band once again revisits the thrash metal sound with "Arrepiéntete". As with "CAE, CAE", the vocals are of the gravely, thrash variety and are much different than the rest of the tracks on this CD. "La Ley de Dios" continue with the faster, thrash inspired heavy metal. I would describe this song as speed metal. However, this time around both vocal styles are used. I actually think this works really well for the band and I hope in the future they will give us more material like this song. The CD finishes off with an English version of the title track. Overall this is a pretty strong power metal CD, with a good bit of diversity. The diversity is quite welcome as many power metal bands tend to stick too closely to the same old formula and get boring. That is not the case here at all. Even the production isn't band for an independently recorded, low budget CD. Pacto de Sangre have left me impressed. I really hope they will release more material in the style of "La Ley de Dios".

• http://www.roughedge.com

"Alerta" (Kaosmaster Productions; 2003)

Reviewed by Christopher J. Kelter

Pacto de Sangre is a heavy metal band from Puerto Rico; the band’s style is a refreshing mix of thrash, power metal, and classic metal that does not overplay its hand in either genre. Pacto de Sangre are a 'white' metal band which means they couch all their songs with their praise to God.

"Alerta" was released in 2003 but we didn't receive it until early 2005. "Alerta" translates to 'Warning' in English and one can only guess that Pacto de Sangre are worried about mankind falling for earthly temptations. However, the band truly does seem sincere about their stance and that's good enough for me.

The album has eight songs (nine if you include the title track sung a second time in English). Pacto de Sangre shows off its versatility throughout the album. "Ve a Predicar" has a distinct Queensryche quality to it, "Cae, Cae" sounds like it could have been written by Sepultura, while "La Ley de Dios" comes across like early Metallica.

"Alerta" was produced by Pacto de Sangre.

Paco de Sangre: Hector "Metaloman" Garcia on vocals, Felix Guzman and Eliezer Robles on guitars, Mizael Robles on bass, and Carlos Robles on drums. Guest musicians include Wilfredo Gonzalez on keyboards and Juan Pizarro vocals on Intro.

• http://www.tollbooth.org

Alerta
Artist: Pacto de Sangre
Label: Indie
URL: http://www.pactodesangre.com/
9 tracks / 45:06 minutes

Pacto de Sangre (Blood Covenant) began as Plenitud in 1996 on the Island of Puerto Rico, with Eliezer Robles on rhythm guitars, and his brothers Mizael (now with Rivera/Bomma) and Carlos on bass and drums. Félix Guzman joined to play lead guitars, with Luis Vila on vocals. In 2001, they changed their name to Pacto de Sangre, and Héctor García replaced Vila as lead vocalist. With the band's new line-up, they recorded an EP and then released a full album, entitled Alerta.

This project can be described in one word: metal. The music here spans the glam metal of the '80s to the speed and thrash of the early '90s. One can perceive a few influences while listening to the work of Pacto de Sangre. As listeners steps into Alerta, one of those influences hits the them in the head like Eddie Jackson's Mindcrime bass: Queensryche. Of course, other bands have shaped the sound of Pacto de Sangre, among them Metallica, but vocalist Héctor García emulates the voice of Geoff Tate incredibly well.

The album begins with the title track, "Alerta." Much of the album is in Spanish, but an English version of "Alerta" is included as the last song. The first song expresses a "warning" of the end times and Tribulation. The album remains focused on Jesus Christ throughout its nine songs, also preaching against drug and alcohol use.

Next is the only song written in English, "Holy Ghost," where Héctor García sings in a manner stunningly similar to Geoff Tate, and here arises one of the first problems of _Alerta_: the inadequate production makes it difficult for the listener to hear Pacto de Sangre's talent. The notes are frequently off beat and the vocals painfully flat in many parts. In addition, the guitars sound messy and somewhat garbled in over-distortion. The music would be worlds better if they were presented in a more tight and precise technique.

Stylistically speaking, "Alerta" and "Holy Ghost" sum up the glam portion of the album. Pacto de Sangre moves on to thrash metal with "Cae, Cae!!" a hectic song which features bassist Mizael Robles on growls, which may be a sound that catches fans of power ballad metal off guard. Compliments to the band on the placement of "Cae, Cae!!"--breaking what would otherwise become a pattern, waking up the listener. "De Verdad" and "Amén" are two more personal, less heavy songs, almost bordering on what would be metal "praise" songs. In both songs, the writer expresses thanks to God and anti-drug sentiments.

Alerta is a solid step in the right direction. It wouldn't be surprising if Pacto de Sangre is becoming tighter and is writing more advanced material by the minute. Alerta is a clear expression of their musical abilities, if not highly developed and crudely produced. Metal fans should hold high hopes for Pacto de Sangre.

Tom MacMillan 4/4/2005

• http://www.crossrhythms.co.uk

Reviewed by Greg Sammons

Pacto de Sangre (which translates as Blood Covenant) hail from Puerto Rico, where they claim to be the number one Christian metal band. Considering I've never heard any other Puerto Rican metal, I really don't know how high an accolade that is! Another unknown is, that due to the fact that the majority of their songs are in Spanish, I don't entirely know what they are singing about. With a few quick guesses and translations I can tell you that it's all from an overtly Christian standpoint. On this album there are only two English speaking tracks but I'm told their next album, which is out later this year, will be mainly sung in English. I guess that is what needs to be done to appeal to a wider audience, and now with distribution across North America it's probably a wise move. The music itself will appeal to fans of pioneering Christian metal from the late '80s and early '90s, which explains why they've managed to share stages with bands such as Bride and Stryper; a testament both to their quality and their reputation but moreover a good indicator of who this band would appeal to. In today's marketplace, this band would probably seem "dated" to modern rock buffs. But to the right audience their reputation will deservedly continue to grow.
7/10
Greg Sammons

• http://www.jesusmuseum.com/

From the island that brought you the artists formerly known as Menudo (now MDO), here comes another musical triumph, Pacto de Sangre. The band undoubtedly follows in the illustrious footsteps of its American forebears, Stryper. Most of Pacto's lyrics are in Spanish, but some songs are in English, like the curiously named "Holly Ghost." Listen to it, and you'll agree when I say that Pacto de Sangre is ready to take America by storm. (1/25/2003)

• Christian Rocker Online

This CD is a little bit hard to review since only two of the CD's nine songs are in English.

While I can't understand most of the lyrics the music is all about a Metal sound. You'll find a wide range of Metal styles from melodic to all out speed Metal. Also present is that big metal guitars sound.

The two songs found on the CD that are in English are, "Holy Ghost," and the English version of the title track "Alerta," titled "Warning."

The song "Warning" is about the need to accept Jesus now as your Personal Savior while you still have the chance and the horrors that await those who don't at the 'Time of Revelation.'

Overall the CD is a good solid effort but not being able to understand most of the lyrics was a problem.

The band has a new CD in the works and this time they promise that more of the songs will be in English. I look forward to hearing that CD

• http://www.roughedge.com

...PACTO DE SANGRE, the Puerto Rican speed, thrash & melodic metal band, have broken into the Loud Chart in the American Christian Music Journal at #18 with their song "Holy Ghost"...

• http://www.holyrock.net/ - Italia

• www.encrucijada-webzine.com

Esto no es más que otra muestra  de que el metal cristiano es un movimiento y no un género, ya que los puertorriqueños PACTO DE SANGRE han logrado una mixtura perfecta entre varias formas de hacer Heavy Metal.  Digo esto, porque vas a encontrar Heavy Metal Tradicional, Power Metal, algunos elementos progresivos y de Death Metal inclusive.  Todo para poder llevar adelante una palabra que se transmite generalmente por otros canales.  Pero estos muchachos no encontraron mejor manera que hacerlo a través de sus influencias musicales.  Y así vemos que el metal trasciende todo aquello que tenga que ver con una ideología o cultura en particular... En esta música hay de todo y para todos.  Bien... vamos al grano... PACTO DE SANGRE nos presenta nueve cortes con letras que transmiten el mensaje de Cristo, a través de las distintas vivencias que han pasado los compositores de esta banda.  Esta lírica se plasma en canciones como "Ve a predicar", "De verdad" "Amén", etc. Por el lado musical, veo que la banda ha logrado un buen sonido, el vocalista METALOMAN cuenta con un registro altísimo y las guitarras de Eliezer Robles y Félix Guzmán conforman un dúo perfecto.  Las influencias más extremas se notan temas como "Cae, Cae" o "Arrepiéntete".  Hay canciones en inglés: "Holy ghost" y la versión del tema "Alerta" (en este caso "Warning"), este último el mejor de todo el disco.  Podrían ser los STRYPER latinos... Por qué no? www.pactodesangre.com Junio/2005

• Art for The Ears

Pacto De Sangre - Alerta, Pacto Music

Pacto De Sangre is a band from Puerto Rico fronted by Metaloman (Hector Garcia). As his name suggests, this band plays metal. The first three songs are melodic metal songs with high vocals. The playing is decent and the tracks are well written. Especially the first song sounds great. The fourth song shows a different side of the same band. Gone are the melodic riffs. This is uptempo thrash metal with raw vocals. And this is not the only thrash material on Alerta. Thrash and melodic metal, for instance, are combined in La Ley De Dios. The album contains eight songs plus an English version of the title track. Besides two of the tracks, all lyrics are in Spanish. There are plenty of well played solos. The production is okay, but could be much improved. But you definitely can get a good impression of the band.

• http://www.metal-zone.it/  - Italia

I Pacto de Sangre si formano intorno al 1996 a Portorico, dopo che Eliezer Robles salvatosi dalla sua seconda overdose per droga, decide che è giunto il momento di far sapere anche agli altri la pericolosità di usare droghe. Chiede quindi aiuto al fratello Mizael e a Carlos e formano la band con il nome di Plenitud. Dopo cinque anni, appare un altra band con lo stesso nome e i nostri decidono di cambiare il nome in Pacto de Sangre.

Dopo qualche cambio di formazione e una serie di concerti con band di grosso calibro, danno alla luce, nel 2002, il loro primo lavoro "Arrepièntete", nel 2004 esce l'album che andiamo a recensire "Alerta". E' in lavorazione il loro terzo lavoro "Days of egypt" previsto in uscita nei primi mesi del 2005.

I Pacto de Sangre fanno parte di quelle band definite christian metal, tipo gli Stryper, ve li ricordate. Le loro canzoni parlano tutte di religione, e sono iscritti a diverse associazioni che tutelano e promuovono le band cristiane.

La musica dei Pacto de Sangre è un ottimo power metal, che spazia da momenti melodici a momenti più duri, ben suonato e composto, avvicinabile ai primi Mago de Oz, anche per il fatto che la maggior parte dei brani sono cantati in spagnolo.
Ottimi tutti i brani: "Alerta" che dopo un intro esplode in tutta la sua potenza con un ottimo giro di chitarra, la melodica "Ve a predicar", la dura e cadenzata, avvicinabile ai Pantera, "Cae, cae". Si prosegue con l'introspettiva "De verdad" con Metaloman veramente ispirato, "Amen" è il ringraziamento di Eliezer per essersi salvato dalla droga. Con "Arrepientete" si torna verso i binari dei Pantera indurendo il suono fino a un thrash molto tirato e pesante, un classico giro di chitarra apre "La ley de Dios" un brano veloce e urlato. Mi sono piaciuti meno i due brani cantati in inglese, in quanto vedo i Pacto de Sangre più adatti a cantare in spagnolo, più ispirati di quando cantano in inglese.

I Pacto de Sangre sono un gran gruppo molto affiatato e preparato, meriterebbero maggiore attenzione da parte degli addetti ai lavori.

Se riuscite a procurarvi una copia di "Alerta" non lasciatevela scappare, merita veramente. Complimenti.

• http://www.victoryzine.com

Pacto de Sangre - Alerta

This is my first Spanish heavy metal album! Pacto de Sangre is a new fresh heavy metal. Bringing us heavy metal in the good old fashion way. Musically they bring us quality crunching metal with many sweet solos here and there.

Of the nines songs presented on "Alerta" (means warning) all but two are sung in Spanish. That makes it difficult for me to sing along! But I've surprised myself - even though my knowledge in the Spanish language is almost zero - I've been (trying) to sing along to songs anyway! Well, that must be a good sign.

And yes it is. Some of the songs are extremely good ("Alerta", "Ve a Predicar" and "Amén").
These tunes are so good that it comes as no surprise that they are very well-known in their home country.

At times they do remind me a lot of Jacob’s Dream(with their former singer).

Sadly there are a couple of terrible ones as well. "Cae, cae" is one of those songs I'll always skip when listening to this album. It's too raw and their attempts to make a thrashy sound fail miserably. If they avoid these kinds of songs and continue focusing in what they're doing best(melodic heavy/power metal!), this band could very well be one of the future stars of Heavy metal!

Style: Heavy Metal Overall: Year: 2004 Review by: Victory

• www.nordicmission.net

PACTO DE SANGRE: Alerta (CD)

Heavy

This band hails from Puerto Rico and have released a solid debut album packed with a huge dose of heavy metal. Sweet guitarsolos and a good singer! Most lyrics are in Spanish except 2 that are in English.  The band also mix in some thrash elements here and there. For fans of Jacob's Dreams.

• http://www.progressiverockbr.com

PACTO DE SANGRE - "Alerta"
Mama Mia, Pacto De Sangre are a Rock-Metal band from Puerto Rico! Formed in 2001, Felix Guzman (guitars), Metaloman (vocals), Carlos Robles (guitar), Mizael Robles (bass) and Elizer Robles (drums) have the mission to show how good is the rock scene from their country. And they DID IT! Having influences from "Iron Maiden", "Guns & Roses" and "Queensryche", “Alerta” is a masterpiece of Heavy-Rock. The title track is very interesting, although the production could be a little better, but sounds ok. “Holy Ghost” could easily be part of a "Queensryche" CD (Metaloman is a Geoff Tate’s disciple), and “Ve a Predicar” is a good slow moment. Some "Iron Maiden" elements can be found in “Cae, Cae” and the mid-tempo “Amen”. But the best comes in the end, with a speed track called “La Ley De Diós”, and “Warning” (English version of title track). A very good debut. Nothing new here, but an excelent band that will give us some metal pearls in the future. "Alerta" includes 9 Tracks - Label: Khaosmaster Productions - Year: 2004... (Comments By Rafael Carnovale)

• Jesus Metal

I had read some discussions about this band at the Christian Metal Realm, so I was pretty curious what this band would sound like. Well, it's pretty nice. This Puerto Rican band mixes Melodic metal with Thrash metal, which has its good and bad sides. The Thrash metal gives a nice aggressive feeling to the music. But the all-Thrash metal songs, like Cae, Cae, though pretty cool, don't really fit the music. The Melodic side is nice too. The vocals are decent (I don't like them here and there). The song Ve a Predicar is the best example of melody on this album. Too bad the album is mostly in Spanish, so I can't really comment on the lyrics, as I can't understand most of them. Overall it's a decent release. I'm not sure if I'll play it very often, but probably every once in a while.

Review by Max (May 01 - 2005)

• www.delotroladometal.com.ar - Argentina

Written by Gustavo R. Rosciano  

(2004) (Pacto Music)                                

De Entrada Nos Recibe Una Muy Buena Intro Que Nos Dice Que Acá Hay Metal Y Del Bueno, Ese Que Todos Admiramos. Desde Puerto Rico, Pacto De Sangre Nos Trae Esta Interesante Producción Independiente Que Nos Retrotrae A Los Años ´80 De Varios Modos Y Pasando Por Variados Estilos Dentro Del Metal. Por Supuesto Que Lo Que Abunda Es El Metal Tradicional Pero También Hay Temas Con Un Estilo Más Trash Con Voces Guturales Y Todo, Y Hasta Algún Lento Pomposo U Otro Con Sonido Liviano Es Lo Que Compone Este Trabajo. También Se Incluyen Dos Versiones En Inglés Supuestamente Para Atraer Oyentes Angloparlantes. Lo Mejor De Pacto De Sangre Y Que Más Llama La Atención Es Esa Versatilidad Para Adaptarse Tan Bien Dentro Del Mismo Disco A Varios Estilos Sin Entrar En Embrollos. La Calidad Sonora Y De Producción Dentro Del Estudio No Es Lo Que Más Se Destaca Y De Hecho Es Un Punto A Corregir En Futuros Discos Pero Se Trata De Un Detalle Menor Ya Que Si Pacto De Sangre, Quiere, Puede, Sobretodo Porque Tiene Con Que. Bien Por Las Bandas Latinas Que Luchan Como Verdaderos Guerreros Del Metal!

"Pacto @ Stryper Concert" Reviews

• www.prconcerts.com

Aunque con muy poco público, a eso de las 9 pm subió a tarima “tu pana Ernesto”de la X (X-100) radio emisora local para anunciar el comienzo del concierto de Stryper. La banda Pacto de Sangre hizo la apertura, este grupo compuesto por 5 integrantes;

Felíx Guzmán – Director y primera guitarra
Emilio “Millo””- 2da guitarra
“Sama”’ – bajo
Felíx “El Pitbull” Castro- bateria
Héctor García “Metaloman”- cantante

No hubo momento que pasará sin que el vocalista agradeciera a Jesucristo e informaron que llevarían su ministerio fuera de Puerto Rico para representarnos, pero mas que todo a El Señor Jesús. Pacto de Sangre tocaron alrededor de 10 temas entre ellos “Enslaved” y “Chosen one”. Este grupo fue muy acogido por el público, tienen una excelente presencia escénica , buen sonido y sobretodo llevaron el mensaje de Dios muy directo y sincero. La tarima lucía de negro y amarillo asi luciendo los colores originales de la banda Stryper.

Por : Wanda Liz Cotto
Fotos: Kenneth Ortiz Alicea

• El Vocero de Puerto Rico

• http://www.rockontour.com

El sonido estridente nuevamente invadió el Coliseo Roberto Clemente reimvindicando el situal del metal boricua cuando los muchachos de Pacto de Sangre irrumpieron con el tema que lleva por titulo el nombre de la banda. Los oidos y miradas de los escepticos y los topos no se hicieron esperar.  Muchos insularistas se pararon y fueron para la barra a beber pero los creyentes y curiosos se quedaron escuchando las canciones.  El sonido fue poco a poco arreglado por los muchachos que tiene ese trabajo y Pacto de Sangre siguio en tarima levantando el porta estandarte de las bandas locales.  Poco a poco la gente fue aplaudiendolos mas y mas y los escepticos empezaron a creer.  No fue hasta que Pacto de Sangre toco la Trilogia que el publico abrio los ojos y le dio un merecido aplauso a los muchachos y varios del publico lo hicieron parandose.  Al Pacto finalizar su ultima cancion el publico se puso de pie y le dio un merecido aplauso fuertemente.  Metaloman presento los integrantes de la banda y luego se dirigio al publico exhortando a que apoyen el talento local comprando las producciones de bandas como "Dantesco, Fast Taker, Athaxia y Pacto de Sangre entre otros."  Fue una gran bendicion para los muchachos.

Reviews de fans sobre Concert de Stryper/Pacto de Sangre de Pulsorock.com

• Georgie @ prhc.com

Estuve sentado en la parte frente a la tarima en el segundo piso y desde alli pude apreciar cada tema, que para mi ya son exitos de Pacto.  Todos ustedes lucieron como lo que son, profecionales del entretenimiento, con su fuerte imagen y la presencia del altisimo lograron la respuesta de aceptación de la gente, en ese momento me senti muy contento porque se que lograron lo que a  todo músico  llena ..un aplauso grueso y prolongado.  Ahh... Sama que se la comió con el intro de bajo de Holy Ghost me trajo ala mente a Cliff Burton, Félix (el Pitbull) sé que se quedó en la mente de muchos drummers con su solo, me emocioné mucho cuando cerro en el snear y levanto las manos sujetando los palos y la gente se le entregó por completo (sabía que lo haría bien).  En fin, la pasé de fábula esa noche espero se repita pronto.  El solo de Félix se que remontó a todos a la era dorada del metal y me gustó mucho ver a gente más joven disfrutando de un rock bien tocao.  Cuando el concierto terminó y salí, te cuento que fuí testigo de comentarios llenos de emoción por gente que no conocía y por gente  que conocía que decían que Pacto les gusto más que Stryper y que el concert parecía de más de ustedes que de Stryper...

Kal-El:  "Pacto de Sangre : El show de pacto empezo mas o menos a las 9 o 9:20 por ahi en verdad excelente performance metalo probo nuevamente tener una excelente voz y los muchachos tocaron cabron muy buen control del publico y muy buena reaccion de la gente tambien; so en verdad felicidades y que sigan para alante ..."

Tio Lucas:  "EN MI HUMILDE OPINION.
LOS MUCHACHOS DE PACTO DE SANGRE SE LUCIERON,TOCARON SUPER./ REPITO PACTO DE SANGRE ,SE LA COMIO MUY BUENOS MUSICOS Y DEFINITIVAMENTE EXELENTE VOZ. LOS FELICITO Y LES DESEO MUCHO EXITO EN EL FUTURO."

ErnieSR5:  "Pacto de Sangre: Sonaron super, fue una tremenda oportunidad la que se les presento!! Sugerencia: el cantante estuvo bien, pero el resto debe de vivirse mas la musica, moverse!!! else drummer, bajsita, guitarrista sonaron brutales!!"

METALCHURCHMUSIC: "Yo no se si a muchos les paso como a mi pacto toco tan brutal que se me olvido que stryper venia despues y a los muchachos sigan pa' lante y los que critican cuando se trepen en una tarimota con el show de luces y la responsabilidad de llevar el mensaje y hacer un show de calidad como lo hicieron ellos entonces you can talk...."

poison ivy05:  "Pacto de Sangre me encanto, y cuando hablo sobre la unidad y el apoyo a la escena y luego hizo enfasis en bandas del patio, en verdad entendi que de eso se trata, de velar el uno por el otro, por que al final de cuentas, todos estan en lo mismo. El mensaje me gusto mucho, por que estamos viviendo momentos dificiles, tanto en la politica, como en la criminalidad y entre nosostros como seres humanos, el mensaje daba en el clavo en muchos aspectos, los felicito y les deseo lo mejor."

Alexander DeLarge:  "Tremendo concert, Pacto de verdad se me quedaron arreguindados del corazon, es la pirmera vez que los veo en vivo desde el 1999 cuando se llamaban Plenitud y Luis Vila era el cantante, y de verdad you have come a long way, super ponchaos, una presencia escenica dominante, Metaloman que es un hombre de estatura promedio parecia un gigante de 7 pies en esa tarima y tuvo el control en todo momento, parecian un acto que llevaban tocando en arenas por decadas."

dgr1970:  "Primero Felicidades A Pacto Tocaron Muy Bien,pero Aparte Quiero Felicitarlos Por No Estar Avergozados De Ser Critianos.  Y Me Gusto Lo Opinion De El Cantante De Pacto Acerca De El Talento Local.  Mucho Exito A Pacto Y Todos Los Musicos Locales."

~Tirsa~:  "PACTO:  Desde q pisaron la tarima se pudo sentir q no subieron solos, sino q la presencia de Dios estaba con ellos. Se q fue un honor para ellos estar alli, pero el privilegio mas grande fue a Dios fue quien los puso alli para hacer la diferencia, y q este es solo el principio de muchas cosas, ademas fue una confirmacion a lo q Dios lleva dicendole a la banda. Como dijeron horita con ustedes se sentia el ambiente de un culto,el cual era su proposito, fueron ministros y guerreros primero, y musicos despues ( q es como deberia ser), se podia notar el feedback de la gente y Dios habia comenzado a obrar alli desde la noche anterior. Y fue cmo dijo Israel una vez empezaron se nos olvido q fuimos a un concierto de Stryper. La noche realmente fue de Cristo primero y de Pacto segundo."

Firestorm Alchemist:  "bueno Pacto se la comio cruda y Metalo te felicito mucho el show kedo brutal sin duda Stryper toco bien,  bueno Metalo que Dios te bendiga"

walosdeth:  "Bueno Tuve la oportunidad de ver a Pacto de Sangre Por primera vez y realmente sonaron muy bien buenos musicos y excelente voz asi que felicidades y mucho exito."

TJ:  "FELICITACIONES a PDS mucho del publico que no los conocia quedo impactado incluso mientras ellos estaban en tarima OZ FOX entro super pumpeao y me dice los muchachos que estan abriendo el show tocan brutal asi que puedo dar fe de que hasta STRYPER le encanto que fuera PDS el opening. EXITO"

Die Nadel:  "bueno pacto de sangre tocaron muy bien y me encanto la coreografia y me alegro q pusieran una banda de metal a abrirle a stryper ya q siempre ponen a sol de menta o algo asi jeje."

Catwoman:  "Quede muy impactada con Pacto De Sangre. Como decia mi abuelo, estaba ejlemba. Y pude notar que no era la unica. El publico comenzo medio frio pero al final estaban en el "trance" del Espiritu. jajajajajajajaj.  Mi acompanate me agarro la mano y me la apreto y no me la solto hasta el final. Me dolian los dedos. El tambien estaba bien ejlembaito. Me gusto mucho la confianza y el fuerza que proyecta Pacto. De hecho me paso como a muchos, cuando Pacto termino yo creia que se habia acabado el concert, ya se me habia olvidado Stryper.  Los felicito por no tener miedo de hablar de sus conviciones religiosas ya que por ellas es que han llegado a donde estan. Es lo mas justo que asi lo testimoneen. Dios esta siempre viendonos aun cuando no nos acordamos que el esta por ahi, y por no hablarle no significa que no este viendote o escuchandote. Auguro mucho exito a Pacto, mantenganse solidos y con fe."