Pyramaze – Bloodlines

Danish melodic metal outfit Pyramaze returns with their eighth studio album, “Bloodlines.” This offering finds the band revisiting their earlier sound while incorporating elements that have defined their more recent work. The result is a collection of catchy hooks, soaring vocals, and intricate musicianship that is sure to please fans of the genre.

Track-by-Track:

• Wings of Destiny: The album kicks off with a soaring, cinematic intro that sets the stage for the epic journey to come. “Wings of Destiny” explodes into a powerful display of melodic metal, with vocalist Terje Harøy delivering a masterful performance. The track is a perfect example of Pyramaze’s ability to blend catchy choruses with impressive instrumental flourishes.
• Bloodlines: The title track injects a dose of modern power metal into the mix. Fast-paced drumming and a galloping riff propel the song forward, while Harøy’s vocals soar effortlessly. Lyrically, “Bloodlines” explores themes of legacy and inheritance, hinting at the album’s overarching concept.
• Ghost in the Machine: A brief instrumental interlude arrives with “Ghost in the Machine.” This track showcases the band’s technical prowess with its intricate guitar work and soaring keyboard melodies. It serves as a welcome change of pace before the album dives back into its melodic metal assault.
• Chamber of Lies: This track throws it back to Pyramaze’s earlier sound with its darker atmosphere and more complex song structure. Harøy’s vocals take on a more aggressive tone, while the guitars churn out a heavy riff. “Chamber of Lies” is a reminder of the band’s ability to explore different shades of the melodic metal spectrum.
• Never Fade Away: A mid-tempo ballad arrives with “Never Fade Away.” This track features a beautiful vocal performance by Terje, showcasing his impressive range and emotional delivery. The song is a welcome moment of respite on the album, offering a touch of melancholic beauty amidst the energetic bombast.
• Eye of the Storm: The album’s second half kicks off with a powerful and dynamic track. “Eye of the Storm” features tempo changes, intricate guitar solos, and soaring vocals, keeping the listener constantly engaged. Lyrically, the song explores themes of perseverance and overcoming adversity.
• Circle of Time: This track injects a dose of progressive metal influence into the mix. Odd time signatures and complex song structures showcase the band’s musical maturity. However, amidst the technicality, Pyramaze never loses sight of strong melodies and catchy hooks.
• Legacy in Stone: The penultimate track throws it back to the band’s earlier days with its emphasis on keyboard melodies and soaring vocals. “Legacy in Stone” is a nostalgic ode to the sound that made Pyramaze a force to be reckoned with in the melodic metal scene.
• The Journey Continues: The album concludes with a powerful and uplifting track. “The Journey Continues” is a fitting finale, leaving the listener with a sense of hope and optimism for the future. The final soaring vocal line by Terje Harøy is a guaranteed moment of musical satisfaction.

Verdict:

“Bloodlines” is a triumphant return for Pyramaze. The album finds the band striking a perfect balance between their earlier sound and their more recent melodic metal explorations. The songwriting is strong throughout, with catchy hooks, impressive musicianship, and soaring vocals that will leave a lasting impression. While the album may not offer anything groundbreaking for the genre, it delivers exactly what fans of Pyramaze crave.

Score: 4.5 out of 5