This Portuguese band were a nice find about four years ago and with the then debut EP ‘Iron Will’ showed epic metal promise. Forward through their 2013 release ‘We March Forward’ we come to ‘The Cycle That Never Ends’. It’s safe to say if you like a touch of barbarian warrior epic metal, then you will enjoy this.
Much like a mix of early Manowar, Brocas Helm and certainly the ‘Iron Will’ era of Grand Magus, this is raw epic metal to accompany your tankard of ale and a passion for singing metal warrior tunes in true, as expected metal fan passion. The opener ‘Cromlech Chronicles’ is a perfect example to get your motor running and sets the tone for the release. Galloping guitar rhythms, thoughtful lyrics and some ripping solo work make this a nice addition to your memory. Although this pounding anthem is over 7 minutes long, the remainder of the album has shorter duration tracks. Thus, this album never outstays its welcome nor does it become expectant when you hear the music. A few bands have tried this style recently and it didn’t come across that good, Ravensire are the genuine article.
The basic music of the album is simplistic, but very effective, with vocalist Rick Thor’s gritty delivery gives the music balls of steel. The closing ‘White Pillars’ trilogy sings about the history of Sintra, a famed city where ruins of a watchtower built in the 16th century were found. Scholars have subsequently found in manuscripts that, at the time, ancient written stones had been found (this relates to ‘Part I, Eternal Sun’). Under these ruins, they found the remains of a settlement, once subdued by the invading army of King Sigurd of Norway in the 12th century (‘Part II, Blood and Gold’). Then, among the stones of the settlements walls, Roman altars and stones belonging to a temple dedicated to the Sun, the Moon and the Ocean were found (‘Part III, Temple at the End of the World’). Musically, Parts I and II sound almost akin to some early Running Wild material. Mainly due to the guitar gallops, the gruff vocals and a very earthy drum sound. ‘Crosshaven’ is another stand out tune to check out also.
There’s a solid rendition on offer here, Ravensire have always produced quality material with interesting lyrical content and the battle hard musicians certainly have a style and clarity akin to some of the great past masters in this field. The quality on offer is really emulated by a great recording and production which shows the thoroughness and tightness of the band combined. The thing I really like about this release is that it is too the point, it is not over the top epic as some bands paths follow, no, this has a perfect balance. Rejoice in its majesty.
(8.5/10 Paul Maddison)
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