EP REVIEW: Drifter – Beggars Ransom

US true Heavy Metallers DRIFTER absolutely nailed the NWOBHM sound on their demo… Now they return with a 7″ in true old school style, set for release via Dying Victims Productions on December 15th.

True heaviness pelts in with melodically charged riffs. Instantly giving us that bright British Heavy Metal vibrancy that these Americans have somehow always nailed, the opening seconds of Drifter’s new offering should have any real rockers convinced. Haunting vocals ensue, cascading atop the crunching guitars, warm bass and sparse drums; ultimately feeling classic as the duo powerfully worship the archaic rock of ages. The percussive pacing is very strong, ensuring fists will pound and heads will bang to the swaying, classic vibes of the a-side. Packing a punch with ripping leads to cut through the mix, alongside some very nice bass lines and tom fills, these flourishes give so much flavour to the record rather than pulsing on a lazy rhythmic singularity. It is in the nuances that Drifter really sneak their identity into this classic rocking anthem.

Flipping over, the b-side holds no less value. Following in the enchantingly dark and mysterious vibes of its predecessor, retaining melody and delicacy while feeling it ought to be cranked to eleven, this pieces soon starts firing on all cylinders. Wailing vocals and guitar melodies melt faces as the bass and drums crack skulls, the perfect duality from a powerful duo, menacing and yet magical. Again, there is a sense of eeriness but also triumph that makes for a fun listen without being superficial or gimmicky. These two songs totally rule and there is only one antidote to their intoxicating Heavy Metal, flip the record and blast it again.

The pursuit of true Heavy Metal worship was made clear on their demo. Now on 7″ format, Drifter follow the formula both in sound and format of the real gods of old. This is another shining gem of the underground that deserves your undivided attention and repeated listens if you love the good stuff. Do not be fooled by false deities, these guys are in the camp of torchbearers who genuinely and passionately rekindle those old fires rather than dilute them to a tepid puddle of worthlessness. This 7″ would not seem amiss in a Camden record shop in 1981, and feels no less relevant in 2023 (hopefully still in Camden, it’d save on postage costs for me). Hail Drifter, hail Heavy Metal!