Scottish power metallers Ascension return with their sophomore album, “Under the Veil of Madness,” after an eleven-year hiatus. This self-produced effort proves the band hasn’t lost a step, delivering a potent dose of high-octane metal that will leave listeners breathless.
From the opening riff of “Sayonara,” Ascension throws down the gauntlet. Fast tempos, soaring vocals, and intricate guitar work are the order of the day. Tracks like “Power of a Thousand Suns” and “Defiance” showcase the band’s mastery of classic power metal tropes, with catchy hooks and shredding solos aplenty. Singer Ricki Ascension delivers a powerful performance, his soaring vocals perfectly complementing the music’s energetic drive.
However, “Under the Veil of Madness” isn’t all about breakneck speed. The band incorporates moments of variety to keep the listener engaged. “Monsters” offers a welcome mid-tempo respite, building towards a powerful and anthemic chorus. “Pages of Gold” showcases a more progressive approach, with tempo changes and intricate guitar work that keeps things interesting.
The album’s production is top-notch, with a clear and powerful sound that allows each instrument to shine. The guitars are razor-sharp, the drums are tight, and the bass lays down a solid foundation. While some might find the constant barrage of high tempos a bit tiring, there’s no denying the musicianship on display.
For fans of classic power metal in the vein of Iron Maiden and Helloween, “Under the Veil of Madness” is a must-listen. Ascension delivers a potent blend of speed, melody, and technical prowess that will leave you wanting more. However, those seeking a more nuanced or progressive take on the genre might find the album’s adherence to formula a bit predictable.
Highlights: “Sayonara,” “Monsters,” “Power of a Thousand Suns”
Overall: A high-octane and well-executed power metal album that delivers exactly what fans of the genre crave. “Under the Veil of Madness” is a worthy return for Ascension, showcasing their tight musicianship and energetic songwriting.
Leave a Reply