Wild Rites And Ancient Songs
(Gates Of Hell Records)
36:03min
Not long after their splendid debut LP in 2021, BLAZON RITE is back with their second Epic Heavy Metal full-length. And on “Wild Rites And Ancient Songs” they turned some of the adjustment screws and wrote an album that surpasses the debut in all aspects. For the Epic Metal community, if ETERNAL CHAMPION or VISIGOTH is too sluggish, now they surely can take heed of BLAZON RITE. Featuring seven songs in just thirty-six minutes, this record pounds into life with uplifting riffs and booming drums, and the sense of triumph and adventure is instantaneous and rushes with energy. And what is to come, is the thumping ‘Salvage What You Can Of The Night’ – a cracking old school romp that would be at home during the early eighties when bands such as MANILLA ROAD, ANGEL WITCH, SAMSON and SAXON ruled gloriously. It is evident that, despite they are delivering a British Metal sound, a strong presence of the muscular American style reigned throughout. Deeper into the record, anthemic hymn-like ‘The Fall Of A Once Great House’ to the glorious gallop of all-out traditional Heavy Metal with ‘Mark Of The Stormborn Raiders’, will storm with total power and passion. Equally impressive are the soaring solos and gut-heaving vocals which are the standout part of this whole record. BLAZON RITE’s sound is strong and clear-cut with tasty bass lines coming through like a warm and vibrant presence to the songs. That surely uphelds the impeccable atmosphere of the ancient, heroic and mighty mood. Accompanied by a stunningly tight production and enchanting album cover, “Wild Rites And Ancient Songs” is a worthy successor to its predecessor and BLAZON RITE following the traditional Heavy Metal path like a commendable force. Still, there are a few steps up the ladder before BLAZON RITE can reach the level of current audience favorites of the genre, that were mentioned earlier. Nevertheless, the Philly quintet has a performance curve that cannot be observed every day in younger underground bands. So, those who will be exposed to “Wild Rites And Ancient Songs”, may euphorically await the third album. Find out more about the band and label at www.facebook.com/blazonriteofficial or www.facebook.com/gatesofhellrecords.
Randolph Whateley