California’s Haunt return with their ninth studio album, “Golden Arm.” This offering dives headfirst into the well of classic metal, delivering a potent blend of soaring vocals, driving riffs, and infectious hooks. Let’s embark on this headbanging journey, track by track, and see if “Golden Arm” proves to be a nostalgic victory lap or a derivative echo of the past.
A Track-by-Track Exploration of Classic Metal Glory:
- Hit and Run (4:12): The album explodes with a classic metal fanfare. A non-musical intro featuring dramatic narration sets the stage for the sonic assault to come. Distorted guitars and pounding drums create a driving foundation, while Trevor William Church’s vocals soar with youthful exuberance. The lyrics, delivered in a storytelling fashion, hint at a life on the run. This opening track is a powerful declaration of Haunt’s commitment to classic metal revival.
- Chimera (4:27): A touch of progressive influence emerges. The song features a tempo change in the middle, showcasing Haunt’s ability to incorporate modern touches without sacrificing their core sound. Church’s vocals take on a more aggressive quality during the heavier sections, perfectly complementing the song’s dynamic shifts. The lyrics delve into themes of mythology and duality, a recurring trope in metal.
- Piece by Piece (4:01): Another non-musical intro, this time featuring a haunting organ melody, ushers in this track. The song itself is a masterclass in catchy songwriting. A simple yet effective riff forms the foundation, while Church delivers a soaring vocal performance that will get stuck in your head for days. The lyrics explore themes of perseverance and overcoming hardship, a relatable message wrapped in a classic metal package.
- Golden Arm (4:38): The title track delivers a potent dose of heavy metal grandeur. Soaring guitars, pounding drums, and a powerful chorus create a sense of anthemic glory. Church’s vocals are at their most commanding, leading the listener on a triumphant ride. The lyrics, though open to interpretation, evoke a sense of power and overcoming obstacles. This track is a perfect example of Haunt’s ability to write classic metal anthems that feel fresh and exciting.
- Vacant Spaces (4:15): The album takes a brief detour into a more atmospheric territory. The song features a slower tempo, shimmering keyboards, and a melancholic guitar melody. Church’s vocals take on a more introspective quality, reflecting on the emotional weight of the previous tracks. The lyrics explore themes of isolation and despair, adding a touch of depth to the album’s otherwise upbeat tone.
- Fight the Good Fight (4:08): The album returns to a more classic metal approach. Fast tempos, galloping drums, and a soaring vocal melody create a sense of battle-ready urgency. The lyrics are a call to arms, urging the listener to stand up for their beliefs and fight for a better tomorrow. This track is a perfect example of how Haunt seamlessly blends classic metal tropes with themes relevant to modern audiences.
- The Horses Mouth (4:22): The album closes with a high-octane rocker. Blazing guitars, pounding drums, and a scorching guitar solo create a sense of glorious closure. Church delivers a powerful vocal performance, leaving the listener wanting more. The lyrics, though cryptic, maintain the album’s overall message of perseverance and overcoming adversity. This track is a fitting end to a celebration of classic metal.
Verdict: 4 out of 5
“Golden Arm” is a triumphant return to form for Haunt. The album delivers a potent blend of classic metal riffs, soaring vocals, and infectious hooks, all delivered with a youthful energy that is undeniable. The songwriting is tight, with each track contributing to the overall feeling of nostalgia and metallic revelry. Church proves himself a capable frontman, channeling the spirit of classic metal legends while injecting his own vocal personality. The production is clear and powerful, allowing each instrument to shine through the mix.
A minor point to consider: Listeners seeking a more experimental or progressive metal sound might find “Golden Arm” a bit too rooted in tradition. The album’s reliance on classic metal tropes might feel derivative to some listeners.
However, for fans of classic metal and those yearning for a shot of pure, unadulterated headbanging fun, “Golden Arm” is a must-listen. Haunt proves that sometimes the best way to move forward is to celebrate the glories of the past. This album is a sonic time capsule that will leave you nostalgic for leather jackets, ripped jeans, and the golden
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