REOG’s debut album lands with the kind of punch you’d hope for from a band rooted in classic heavy metal but eager to bring their own spin to the table. This record doesn’t waste time messing around - it’s loud, driven, and packed with riffs that grab your attention from the start.
Right out of the gate, you can tell these musicians know their stuff. The guitars are the star of the show, with Bay Guitaro turning in solos that feel both precise and wild at the same time. The riffs aren’t just there to fill space - they’re the kind you can hum along to after just one listen, which isn’t something you can say about every metal album. The bass and drums work like a solid backbone, keeping the energy up without overshadowing the guitars. Ralph Beam’s bass has this raw, almost bluesy edge to it, while Jon Asher’s drumming is tight and forceful without ever feeling mechanical.
Vocally, Sammy Tampubolon brings a lot of personality to the mix. His voice has this slightly rough quality that works perfectly for the band’s style, but it’s not all grit - there are moments of real melody that give the songs some extra lift. It’s the kind of voice that makes you want to shout along, especially when the choruses hit.
The overall vibe of the album is fun and high-energy. You can tell REOG is the kind of band that thrives in a live setting because these songs feel built for a crowd. They lean into big, memorable hooks without ever losing the edge that makes metal exciting in the first place.
That said, the album isn’t without its hiccups. There are moments where it leans so heavily into its influences that it feels a little predictable. Some songs blur together on first listen, though repeated plays help them stand out more. Still, for a first album, it’s hard to complain too much - they’re clearly setting a strong foundation for what’s to come.
If you’re into metal that knows how to have fun while still delivering solid musicianship, Reog is worth a listen. It’s a promising start for a band with plenty of potential, and I wouldn’t be surprised if their next release takes things even further.