Power Surge is a new hard melodic metal band fronted by singer Roko Nikolic and guitarist Srdjan Bilic, their music primarily evoking the late 1980s when bands were taking classic metal origins to the next step-whether ramping up the pace withfastertechnical riffing, introducing progressive twists,or adding a touch of AOR mystique.

Forming in June 2024 the band’s first demos landed them a perfect launch opportunity-opening for 80s power metal legends Fifth Angel on their September European tour. They wasted no time in working up a set of material to perform, and launched two singles CALM BEFORE THE STORM and SHADOWS WARNING in time for their live debut.After initially planning an EP, immediately after their first dates they received an album offer with FHM records and an invitation to play the prestigious Keep It True Rising festival in 2025. The busy autumn continued with the completion of further material.Their debut LP SHADOWS WARNING will be released on 2nd May 2025 with an exclusive physical presale at Keep It True Festival on 25th April 2025.

The members are no strangers to the European metal scene -Roko has performed direct support to bands like Whitesnake and Armored Saint, leads his own band Flesh and is a longterm collaborator ofJelusick. Srdjan has spent most of his career rising through the ranks of UK metallers Primitai, most recently leading them to a double appearance at Bloodstock festival, European dates with Firewind and Enforcer.The lineup is completed by Srdjan’s regular partners in crime, guitarist Calvin Lever and bassist Radek Koval. Drum duties are handled by Milan “The Yeqy” Jejina, a highly sought after drummer on the festival and arena circuit in the balkans.

“We are very happy to be signing with FHM records. From the moment we started our mission was to play the heavy metal we love, and when FHM records approached us about doing an album we knew this was the perfect opportunity to connect with the fans, other bands and industry that are keeping it alive. Most importantly both the label and the band are “by fans for the fans”, we are both in this for the music and passion.”

Line-up:

Roko Nikolic – Vocals

Srdjan Bilic – Lead and Rhythm Guitar

Calvin Lever – Lead and Rhythm Guitar

Radek Koval – Bass Guitar

Drums recorded by Milan Jejina. 

Review

Shadows Warning kicks things off and the albums title track is a true beast. It encompasses rich and velvety vocals delivered by Roko Nikolic and powerful and engaging guitar work delivered by Srdjan Bilic. There is a heroic feel to the song in places which gives it that sparkle and sense of glory. There is even that token cowbell that we all love! It rocks along strutting about with no care in the world. There are some catchy ahh-ahhs which will certainly have you singing along uncontrollably!

A Dream Into A Nightmare charges ahead with immense and bold rhythm guitar work that feels powerful enough to knock anything down. The track is a whirlwind of fiery vocals and searing riffs, tearing through with relentless speed. Even in its slower moments, there’s a palpable tension, as if the storm is only gathering strength. The drumming is punishing, and the bass lines thrum in the background, adding to the colossal wall of sound that assaults your eardrums. The double kick sections are absolutely ferocious—terrifying yet thrilling—and I thoroughly enjoyed imagining myself breaking my neck to them at a live show. So hold my beer!

Breathe New Life comes in throwing mid tempo tom patterns about like its no ones business. Theres some light drifting guitars notes which hang around for a brief moment before some one turns on the ignition and you are thrown back in your chair. Whizzing guitars belt at full speed like they have a rocket attached to them. Roko keeps the vocal on point with all the passion and integrity you could want from a vocal performance! The drop down to more a mid tempo stomp on the drums with faster guitar work is a nice break before everything kicks off! Holy cow the solo feels like a nuclear blast just hit you! Insane! I am loving how there is so much going on and each moment feels different to the last. There is no end of great little harmonies and lingering ideas!

With The Dawning drops you into this big void, using open guitar chords and climbing notes to set the mood. It has this slightly underlying dark tone which I like and especially works well with the thick, heavy guitar work. The drumming details are excellent and theres some moments where things flows and trickle, even throwing in some splashes and bells. I have to note that I am absolutely loving the production as well, making Power Surges music sound colossal!

No Turning Back straight away spits some guitar licks right in your face like a defensive snake before everything takes off. Like tracks before, this is fast, furious and full of uncompromising energy. There are sections where everyone shines, for instance the breakdown on the drums is killer and the explosive leads that Srdjan delivers are just something else! I loved his other band Primitai and I feel Power Surge only helps him to blossom as a musician! All i can say is that now we are five tracks in I am already really wanting to experience a Power Surge show!

Calm Before The Storm was the first song to be released by Power Surge and holy cow I had to turn this right up to lock myself into it. Things fade in gently before the opening riff hits you like a punch to the face. It breaks things down to beautiful acoustics and Roko singing his heart out! Then soon enough you feel the glistening and warm guitar riffs calling out under the rays of the sun. This has to be one of the most uplifting and brightest songs on the album. I could see myself driving down some huge road at sunset feeling alive. No wonder why they chose this song as their first single! Just wow!

Enormous rhythms and soaring leads dominate the next track, Carry On! For those unfamiliar, this is a cover of an 80s gem by the band Warriors (from ex-Yugoslavia). Roko gets down to showing some flair and a bit of attitude in his vocal performance. There is plenty of swagger from all parts here and some sexy guitar work that adds that extra little bit of heat. But then, out of know where came the biggest surprise! A guest vocal appearance by the one and only Dejana Betsa Garčević of Claymorean. And I must say what an addition to the song. Her duet with Roko i think is what makes this songs. Her vocals literally just blow this song apart and so I feel listeners and fans of hers are certainly in for a treat!

Next up is the electrifying track “Last Man Standing”! It kicks off with heartfelt, soaring guitar leads that immediately pull you in, showcasing the band’s exceptional musicianship honed through years of experience. The song is packed with intricate double sections seamlessly entwined with warm, soulful guitar work that feels like a conversation between the instruments. One standout moment is when the energy dips into a quieter, atmospheric section, allowing the drums to step into the spotlight with captivating flair. Meanwhile, the bass and guitars resonate into an expansive, almost cosmic soundscape—simply beautiful.

Just as you’re lost in this serene interlude, the song charges back with galloping rhythms and harmonized guitar melodies that scream pure adrenaline. The solo, like many on this album, is nothing short of breathtaking—it’ll have you exclaiming, “Damn, son!” The vocals soar with a euphoric intensity, lifting you above the clouds and leaving you with an undeniable sense of elation. The track then circles back to that softer section, where the intricate drum work keeps you spellbound, building suspense before the final explosive gallop brings the song to a triumphant close.

Burnout ignites with a trail of smoke and a wail of scorching guitar, setting the tone for a blistering finale. The intro’s blazing riffs, punctuated by rapid flicks of double kick, launch us into verses filled with expansive, resonant chords and impassioned vocal lines. The chorus steals the spotlight with a dark, brooding chord progression and thunderous shouts of burnout that resonate with raw power. Calvins guitar work on this track solo particularly kicks ass!

The solo? Absolutely electrifying—a whirlwind of notes spinning like a sonic tornado, leaving you breathless. As the track roars to its conclusion, it thrashes into overdrive with ferocious chords and more relentless cries of burnout. What a powerful way to close this album!

Conclusion

Power Surge has delivered an outstanding debut album that excels on every level. The music is masterfully composed, showcasing a blend of intricate arrangements and remarkable maturity. With its polished production and refined execution, the album not only enhances the band’s distinctive sound but also solidifies their artistic direction, leaving a lasting impression..

It is clear as to why these guys were snapped up by a label and booked for festivals with only two songs under their belt to begin with. They could be the band that puts the electricity back into the Nwothm scene in the UK. I am honestly left with a big smile on my face and am truly excited to see what the future holds for this band!

TheNwothm Score: 9.5/10

Links

Bandcamp: https://powersurgeheavymetal.bandcamp.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/powersurgeheavymetal

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/powersurgeheavymetal/

Label: https://fhmrecords.bigcartel.com/

“Shadows Warning” will be released on 2nd May 2025 via FHM Records, with an exclusive presale at Keep It True Festival on 25th April 2025.