these guys take it to a whole new level
author: Nickolaus Pacione
One of those CDs I've played in a regular rotation since I picked it up in 2004. Empyrean Sky is the real deal here when they do heavy metal -- three guitarists is a rare thing, and John is one vocalist you'd be surprised what he can pull off all in one track. You'd hear a cross between Queensryche and Believer in the same track.
The pacing they take is similar to either Metallica, Iced Earth or even Iron Maiden with the lyrical delivery. Shakesphere type vocals is a first in this genre and these guys are the only ones who took it to that level. Technical death metal combined with a speed/thrash metal tenacity and hell even some industrial (when you realize they use programmed drumming or a drum machine, that will be the industrial metal trait.) Drum machine -- that is the fifth member, and with them it is a needed thing because there would be no way in hell that a live drummer can keep up with their guitar playing. They are fast and the solos are well timed. It is safe to say they are faster than Metallica at their fastest era.
It took them years to produce this album but a lot of their stuff you heard on the site all the way back from Vulture Eyes. I found these guys on Mp3.com and basically been pushing their site ever since -- finally met them at Iced Earth.
One of the most amazing heavy metal bands to come out of Chicago second to Withering Soul who they've toured with on a few shows. Both bands know what they're doing and is shocking why the fuck these guys aren't bigger than they are. Who knows with Slayer winning two grammys people will be looking for bands with the same energy as either SLAYER or Exodus, this band has that kind of energy and more.
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Absolutely Brutal
author: Kyle O
This is one GREAT CD. They blend every genre of metal, and some entirely different styles of music, into nearly every song. Two instrumentals, both of which are amazing, make me headbang every time I hear them. The singer is quite talented, as well as the other two guitarists.
Yes, there is a drum machine used, but take my word for it and give it a listen anyway. Had someone, be it myself or someone else, not told you that there is a drum machine used, you'd believe it's a human doing it.
The two things I wish this album had more of -
1. Blast beats
2. Tracks
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Wow. Freaking amazing.
author: Jason Sterner
Just amazing. This band has created a style of metal that blends black, folk, prog, and symphonic metal all together to create an experience that is emotional, brutal, and beautiful all at the same time. The 3-guitar attack is constantly shifting riffs and moods. A drum machine is used but it is the best one I have EVER heard. It is impossible to tell that it is not a human behind the drums, as the drumwork is bombastic and stylistic. Metal fans don't miss this one.
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