Manilla Road, a legendary solitary sabred metal band, left an indelible mark on the heavy metal scene before reaching the end of their road in August 2018. Founded in 1977 in Wichita, Kansas, the band’s journey was abruptly halted by the untimely death of their founder, Mark ‘The Shark’ Shelton. Despite their changing lineup over four decades, Shelton remained a constant force within the band.
High Roller Records’ decision to reissue some of Manilla Road’s back catalogue offers a glimpse into the band’s timeless appeal. ‘Spiral Castle,’ an underrated gem, showcases 52 minutes of intense metal, featuring Shelton’s powerful riffs and masterful guitar work. In a musical landscape dominated by Nu Metal, Manilla Road’s defiance and musicianship shine through, especially in tracks like ‘Merchants of Death.’
‘Spiral Castle’ emerged in 2002, featuring Scott Peters and Mark Anderson alongside Shelton. Although not as iconic as previous albums like ‘Crystal Logic’ or ‘Out of the Abyss,’ it boasts captivating tracks such as ‘Gateway to the Sphere,’ ‘Seven Trumpets,’ and ‘Born Upon the Soul,’ each delivering a unique musical experience.
On the other hand, ‘The Courts of Chaos,’ released in 1990, presented a different chapter in Manilla Road’s history. Featuring Shelton, drummer Randy Foxe, and bassist Scott Park, this album marked the band’s final release under Black Dragon before disbanding in 1991. The album’s fusion of metal with keyboard-driven elements divided opinions among fans and critics.
Despite its mixed reception, ‘The Courts of Chaos’ showcases glimpses of Manilla Road’s brilliance, with tracks like ‘(Vlad) The Impaler’ exemplifying the band’s signature sound. The album’s departure from their traditional style reflected the challenging times of the early ’90s, as Shelton lamented the declining metal scene and internal tensions within the band.
While ‘The Courts of Chaos’ may not rank among their finest works, it serves as a testament to Manilla Road’s versatility and resilience. The band’s intricate compositions and Shelton’s vivid storytelling continue to captivate listeners, underscoring their enduring legacy in the heavy metal genre. Despite the tumultuous period surrounding its creation, ‘The Courts of Chaos’ remains a significant chapter in the band’s storied history.
Ultimately, the reissue of both ‘Spiral Castle’ and ‘The Courts of Chaos’ offers a unique opportunity to rediscover the artistry and innovation of Manilla Road. These albums, though distinct in style and reception, collectively embody the band’s unwavering spirit and musical prowess, ensuring their place among heavy metal legends. Hail to Manilla Road, a band that defied conventions and carved their path through the annals of metal history.
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