Incredible. I was a big fan of their first album, The Elder. But if The Elder lacked anything, at times it felt silly, lacked the aggression that I desired, and felt like the full conception of how to combine the spanish guitar with metal wasn't quite realized.
But Master of the Aire has fulfilled everything. Its aggressive in a traditional metal/thrash kind of way, with awesome gritty vocals. On most of the aggressive tracks the Spanish guitar adds in texture and complex melodies that just can't be played as well on an electric guitar. When the electric guitar solos come in they are well composed, interesting to listen to, and when the song calls for it, full of emotion. The songs are all well written, with imaginative riffs.
There are a few instrumental tracks on the album, but while at times they veer close to traditional flamenco tracks, there is this mindset in the player of metal, and it shines through. And if you get bored by listening to them, waiting for the 'metal moments' then sit back, close your eyes, and let the music run through you.
I'm truly blown away by this album on first listen. Its catapulted itself to a contender not just for album of the year, but to be one of my long lasting favorites. Few albums have ever made me feel this moved and inspired.
But Master of the Aire has fulfilled everything. Its aggressive in a traditional metal/thrash kind of way, with awesome gritty vocals. On most of the aggressive tracks the Spanish guitar adds in texture and complex melodies that just can't be played as well on an electric guitar. When the electric guitar solos come in they are well composed, interesting to listen to, and when the song calls for it, full of emotion. The songs are all well written, with imaginative riffs.
There are a few instrumental tracks on the album, but while at times they veer close to traditional flamenco tracks, there is this mindset in the player of metal, and it shines through. And if you get bored by listening to them, waiting for the 'metal moments' then sit back, close your eyes, and let the music run through you.
I'm truly blown away by this album on first listen. Its catapulted itself to a contender not just for album of the year, but to be one of my long lasting favorites. Few albums have ever made me feel this moved and inspired.
