ALBUM REVIEW: Traveler – Prequel To Madness

Canadian Heavy Metal revivalists TRAVELER are back with their 3rd album, set for release via No Remorse Records on February 23rd.

Powerful riffs and rototoms bring in that epic Heavy Metal hellfire that Traveler are known for. Alongside soaring, shredding guitars and high-octane vocals, the feral hunger for them to return is palpable from band and fans alike. Aligning melody and groove with an enormous production, these Canadian maniacs bring the steel with force. Of course there plenty of catchiness and strength in the songwriting department and the feeling of a triumphant return to form that can be expected as we forge on. These anthems were definitely intended to be played live, which is convenient as Traveler are setting out on tour this year. Anyways, back to the record, it really does ignite a sense of furious passion in its early moments that lends to one’s investment. We can only hope this momentum does not falter throughout.

One of the greatest facets of this album is the tightness with which the band play. Evidently well-rehearsed, the insane shredding and crisp drum work with thick low end pounds the anvil from all sides. Equally, the vocals are absolutely ripping. It’s really great to hear such musical ability still striving with these guys who I am sure will decimate with equal quality on stage. There is no denying the overall refinement and growth in skill, while keeping true to their own sound. It’s definitely one of those records that delivers what you expect at a high level throughout. At times this can be predictable, but realistically with 95% of “NWOTHM” we all know what we are getting into and are happy for the great tunes. So understand that part of my scoring metric is originality and thus might count again this, but do not mistake that for dislike.

“Prequel To Madness” is one of those albums which is a collection of catchy songs that stick with you due to their sense of melody and easy-to-get-into choruses while coating everything in a sleek but impressive amount of musicality. These characteristics make it easy to overlook any unoriginal ideas, because they are delivered so damn well. At the end of the day, this record does exactly what is promised and gives an extremely fun 40 minutes of Heavy Metal with tons of great energy and easily accessible sound that is hard to fault. From a personal standpoint, I prefer a bit of roughness around the edges but I can appreciate the sheer strength of sound taking place here and it is certainly not so polished to ruin it for an elitist “raw is better” snob like myself. This remains an album you’d want to crank on a long road trip and simply throw hair to the wind and enjoy yourself to. That ticks all the boxes of a solid Heavy Metal album.

A real cut of fun Heavy Metal that has killer songs and plenty of bite. Traveler has always been a consistent band and this really is no exception, feeling like the third chapter we wished for and now have. Sometimes this vein of traditional worship can play it a bit safe, but hey, we get some fantastic and enjoyable songs so it’s always a win in my book. If the likes of Riot City, Enforcer and Screamer appeals with their catchy and well-produced Heavy Metal attack, Traveler shall not disappoint.