SPIRIT ADRIFT are back with another new EP of Heavy Metal triumph. After their more Doom Metal beginnings transcended into pure old school Heavy Metal on the last couple of albums, it will be interesting to hear how they have embraced the ways of old on this release. Set for release on August 27th via Century Media Records.
Ethereal guitar passages begin the journey with a resplendent soundscape that may be melancholic but with a presence of something triumphant on the horizon. Gorgeously crisp riffs and cymbal chimes present that triumph with a groove and melody that Spirit Adrift has mastered over the years in a way that is totally their own. Sombreness in the vocals gives it that brooding edge that we saw really prevalent on the “Divided By Darkness” record while this takes things further into more traditional Heavy Metal vein to superb effect. Lyrically the music is clearly a very personal and cathartic process which lends itself to the sincerity of Spirit Adrift’s music which seems to have become a tale of self-determination and glory, benefitting from minimalist yet skilful and memorable instrumental work that hits hard with potent riffing and catchy drum work. Bluesy leads complete the soulfulness of this release which retains that splendid 70s and 80s blend of grit and power to grandiose and emotive outcomes due to a legitimately unencumbered execution.
The blend of familiarity and exciting new ground gives this EP a genuinely exciting feeling that takes the changes put into place on the last record to their logical conclusion (at least at this stage in the journey) and puts the band firmly on track to delivering pure old school Heavy Metal of epic proportions. From the earlier moments on “Forge Your Future” that still had a dose of Doom Metal in the sound to the positively charging “Wake Up” seems quite the transition yet it occurs seamlessly. The well placed gallops harken back to the NWOBHM while paying homage to America’s early Power Metal heroes with more stomping choruses that will certainly get fists pumping. Closing number “Invisible Enemy” clocks in at 7 and a half minutes, making it the lions share of time consumption. Opening with tremendous licks that chill the bones, this is clearly going to be an epic closing moment. Crunchy rhythm tones and punctual drums ensure that this final delivery is just as refreshing as the other two pieces in all of its stomping, crushing glory. The trio is complete and certainly a memorable one on all fronts. Do not miss this EP.
A ripping trio of tracks that tick all the rights boxes. There is catchiness, moodiness and generally stellar songwriting and musicianship. This EP should entice new fans and also please long time listeners with their powerful blend of Heavy Metal that has plenty of character while still upholding tradition.
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