ALBUM REVIEW: Century – The Conquest Of Time

Swedish traditional Heavy Metal duo CENTURY unleash their debut album on April 21st via No Remorse Records, Electric Assault Records and Headsplit Records. Let’s rock!

Melodic riffs soar into life with a crunchy but clear sound and thick bass lines cutting through with ease. Atop unfettered drumming, this instrumental assault is met with haunting vocals to give the true vibes of early Swedish Heavy Metal legends like Heavy Load, Mindless Sinner, Onyx etc. That sound definitely has a huge catchy side which Century use to full force from the onset, pounding metallic fury in the most anthemic and easy to adore manner possible. The key to this sound working so well is a huge and uncompressed production, which thankfully here is present, thusly not compressing the life out of Century’s wicked music. As my introduction to the band, it was clear to see why so many people were enchanted by the rough, well-paced and rocking brand of true Heavy Metal thunder. Their sound is dynamic, powerful and timelessly classic. “The Conquest Of Time” has certainly gripped me from the get-go.

Although packed with those melodic and catchy moments I mentioned before, there is so much power and fury on display too. Tracks like “Sinister Star” are ferocious and bring the records bite to the foreground. These clever dynamics are subtle and definitely fit the aesthetic of the album while ensuring the sound does not dry out or become overplayed. Equally piercing are the razor sharp solos which blend sleazy blues and feisty legato runs seamlessly. Being a duo can have drawbacks in some instances, but Century achieve such a gargantuan sound between the two of them it is easy to forget their lower member-count. Indeed, they achieve a rich, vibrant and exciting Heavy Metal attack that is truly excellent to hear.

Although phenomenally enjoyable on the record, many of these songs will work exceptionally well live too with their potent sing-along friendly choruses and momentously percussive riffing. The groove is one that is hard to get out of, so leave your stylus in the record and play it again! Strong until the last, this crushing unit deliver a mesmerising and high octane 36 minutes of rapturously impassioned Heavy Metal steel. There is more than enough diversity to give the album a lot of replay value, which is key in this age of endless music being released daily. Century are definitely worthy of your time and give us a very impressive debut album. Full to the brim with creative songwriting, eloquent mood swings and a haunting performance from both members, these Swedes have triumphed.

Century are another magnificent example of Sweden keeping the true Heavy Metal spirit alive and kicking. Their debut album summons the spirits of the elder legends while marching forward with conviction and skill. If you like Heavy Metal, embark on “The Conquest Of Time”.