I flip-flop the assessment: I really enjoy "Bright As A Fire" and I'm not as keen on "Savage World." I like the slow build, and it really gets me with the crunching, remorseless, grinding rhythm leading up to that punchy riff right before the first solo. The solo section I like quite a bit, with the two different approaches- the first is frantic and blistering, the 2nd is more groove-based and works around Mikee's vocals. I also like the way Adrian sneaks in various harmony lines under the chorus. The final section with the ascending harmony underneath the heavy chord structure is great, too. But, I can see where your critique has merit, as well. Minor disagreement, I'm sure.
With Savage World, I think Mikee's delivery on the verrses is just a tick outside "controlled" and it makes it nearly impossible to understand him. Now, if I had the booklet in front of me and could read the lyrics, I would probably like it more. The chorus is solid, though, and I like the spacey breakdown before the solo section. The riffing under the verse, I should say, is very tasty! So, I like it, but not as much as Bright As A Fire.
Now, Tortured Tone is another matter altogether- we're in complete agreement!!! Beautiful song. Every aspect is well done- vocals, music, production, arrangement, etc. The combination of the jangly guitar with Abi's viola is a wonderful, but unexpected, start. After some pretty heavy songs preceeding this, it just kind of startles you. Then, there's that subtle, slow crescendo, with each instrument gradually ramping up the attack and volume, to the point wear the heavy guitar slides in and the chorus explodes! I really like the solo- VERY un-Maiden and new for Adrian. The repeated chorus never gets old. You make a great point- Adrian sings like he's the main vocalist, but each vocal line (Mikee's, Adrian's, and Tarin's) washes in, spiking, then gives way for the other- complimenting one another, but never competing with the other vocalist. It is so well-written and executed. Brilliant. In an interview, Tarin said Mikee brought her in and she ended up working on several "Adrian projects." I hope she really meant "projects" and not just "songs," because I would love to hear more of their (Adrian/Tarin) collaboration. Mikee too, no disrespect to him, but I think she needs more exposure.
Great stuff, Forostar, even if we don't always agree! Where's the fun in that, really?
Cheers!