Philadelphia’s Blazon Rite returns with their sophomore album, “Wild Rites and Ancient Songs.” Building on the foundation laid by their debut, this album offers a potent blend of traditional heavy metal with epic storytelling. Let’s delve into the album track-by-track and see if Blazon Rite continues their winning formula.
Track-by-Track Exploration of Epic Heavy Metal:
- The Call: A dramatic intro sets the stage, with a slow build that explodes into a galloping riff and soaring vocals. The lyrics hint at a grand adventure about to unfold.
- Salvage What You Can of the Night: This track throws in some unexpected twists. A quirky opening riff gives way to a powerful anthem about seizing the moment. The soaring guitar solo and catchy chorus are clear highlights.
- The Unquenchable Flame: A return to a more traditional heavy metal sound. This track is a fist-pumping anthem filled with classic tropes of the genre. The lyrics celebrate perseverance and the triumph of the human spirit.
- The Battle Rages On (Part 1 – The Sword and The Crown): This track marks the beginning of an epic two-part saga. Slow tempos and spoken word narration create a sense of foreboding, setting the stage for a looming battle.
- The Battle Rages On (Part 2 – No Surrender): The second part explodes with fiery energy. Fast tempos and soaring vocals depict the intensity of the conflict. The guitar work is particularly impressive, showcasing intricate melodies and shredding solos.
- The Fall of a Once Great House: A melancholic ballad emerges here. Acoustic guitars and mournful vocals paint a picture of loss and despair. This track provides a welcome moment of respite before the album’s final chapter.
- Wild Rites and Ancient Songs: The title track closes the album with a triumphant flourish. Fast tempos, soaring vocals, and a powerful chorus create a sense of epic closure. The lyrics celebrate the power of storytelling and the enduring legacy of heavy metal.
Verdict: 4 out of 5
“Wild Rites and Ancient Songs” is a solid effort from Blazon Rite. The album captures the essence of traditional heavy metal while offering enough fresh ideas to keep things interesting. The songwriting is strong, with each track contributing to the overall narrative arc. The vocals are powerful and expressive, and the musicianship is top-notch.
A minor point to consider: The focus on epic storytelling might not appeal to all listeners, particularly those who prefer a more stripped-down heavy metal experience.
However, for fans of bands like Manowar, Gloryhammer, and even early Maiden, “Wild Rites and Ancient Songs” is a delightful romp through a world of fantastical creatures, heroic deeds, and epic battles. The album is a celebration of everything that makes traditional heavy metal great, and it leaves the listener wanting more.pen_sparktunesharemore_vert
Leave a Reply