EP REVIEW: Skelator – Blood Empire

SKELATOR are back with a blistering new bout of speeding and epic Heavy Metal, out now via Gates Of Hell Records.

Building drums and synths open with clear guitars that soar in the mix upon waves of cymbals. A quick spoken word declaring the glory that awaits turns to an eruption of feisty riffing and punctual drumming with vocals akin to the bands namesake. Walking the line between being a bit ludicrous but in a really cool way (a la Manowar etc) there is so much talent on show with those busy fills and ripping riffs met with superb lead playing and some power in the vocal department too. Their music blends the storytelling potency of Manilla Road and Warlord with the all-out power of Agent Steel, Liege Lord and Jag Panzer which makes for a ripping and exciting listen that blasts out triumphant metallic power with no remorse. Some galloping rhythms open the second track which gives some NWOBHM flavour to the overload of awesomeness and continues with the more fable-like glory of the record.

As a shorter release, every minute has to count. Impressively there is no dull second or a moment of questing wasted. Nay, the hellfire of roaring Heavy Metal keeps us enchanted from start to end while not relying on imagery alone as the music is more than fantastic enough to keep up. Lyrically, the themes may seem a bit of a cliche, but one so entwined with this music that it ought not be scoffed at, in fact their ability to conjure a universe of fantasy is rather strong. The warm bass lines really give a massive depth to the production as the more sharp guitars, especially in those aforementioned marvellous solos and the pummelled drums may drift apart, but this uncompressed manor is tied together beautifully. Especially when backdropping the majestic and often maniacal vocals with their theatrical execution. No warrior is left behind, these brothers and sister in arms are locked into something special and do not falter in giving it to us. Make your way to the empire, sample the bloodwine and be ready for a Heavy Metal assault of grandiosity.

Lore, fantasy, and most importantly, a juggernaut of killer Heavy Metal. This EP has it all and may rely on the old ways, but do not lean too far and leave behind excellent musicianship. A performance of truly epic proportions that leaves you salivating for more while this record is an absolutely worthy, nay essential, listen for all Heavy Metal lovers. While there is anthemic moments that stick with you, this is not pop coloured in, we remain on the precipice for twenty-odd minutes of battle-ready Heavy Metal that never drops the ball. As a band with quite a study plethora of releases under their belt, it is clear that they have developed their craft to supreme ends, while keeping it true and that is to be commended.