ALBUM REVIEW: Herzel – Le Dernier Rempart

French Epic Heavy Metal warriors HERZEL follow their singular demo with a debut full length, out now via Gates Of Hells Records. Fans of true glorious Metal might will want to take heed of this call to arms.

Samples start our journey with an eerie sense of dread and the unknown before blistering guitar harmonies flourish into melodic fruition atop creeping cymbal work only to erupt in a purely excellent explosion of Heavy Metal glory. Galloping instrumentals and haunting vocals entwine with a mystique that knows no bounds. Admittedly, I found myself instantly excited and falling into adoration for this Heavy Metal assault that brought to mind the likes of Brocas Helm, Manilla Road and Cirith Ungol etc, works that should make any headbanger ready to check a band out. Interestingly Herzel do not seem derivative as such of their inspirers, incorporating a very strong Japanese presence in their sound which only adds to the intoxicating enjoyability that the record has to offer, meanwhile the musicianship which of course is the most important thing is absolutely stellar. From the memorable riffs to face-melting solos, varied yet precise drums and raunchy bass through to the commanding attack of the singer, Herzel are clearly a passionate flame that will not be extinguished.

Betwixt this mighty tome of Metal, we see some interesting progressive and folk influences creep in with estranged and chilling interludes and unique experimentations breaking the mould while overall we never see anything that dampens the razor sharp steel of pure Heavy Metal. The sheer power and talent combined with an innovative streak that makes this feel old school yet in a way I haven’t heard a thousand times demands respect of epic proportions. I believe the first three songs to be individual pieces and the second side of the record to be a trilogy (uniting tracks 4-6), though really the grander piece of the album deserves attention from start to end, so blast it all. A really fantastic effort that I think will stick with people, warranting many repeat listens to discover what lies below the surface and uniting all Metal maniacs in readiness for battle as the tales of European history and the ensuing carnage yet unwavering bravery enshrouds these tales of times long gone. Even though I do not speak a word of French, the feel and power of the music has no less ability to transport me to these times and battlefields, regardless of language barrier, showcasing true potency. Utterly wonderful.

A total ripping debut that immediately makes HERZEL a name I believe all lovers of traditional Heavy Metal worship that is neither generic nor betrays the old ways will be chanting if they discover this obscure gem. As a firm believer that Metal never dies, including in its oldest forms, that can be consolidated hearing a band as magnificent as HERZEL, check it out or be slain by the mercenaries of Metal mayhem!