Tuesday, February 28, 2023

Blind Illusion – Wrath of The Gods (Hammerheart Records)


 


Blind Illusion was one of the most unique bands from the Bay Area.  They always had this cool rock element in their music, and their take on metal always stood apart from the rest.  This new album fully supports the above-mentioned claims.

Wrath of The Gods is a very heavy record, well written, with plenty of catchy hooks.  The music takes you on a journey here.  It’s a mix of heavy metal with rock mysticism, incredibly original approach.  After the repeated listens the album continues to surprise with its textures and arrangements.  Each song is crafted with a lot of thought and understanding of music in general.  If Blind Illusion appealed to you back in 1988, then that appeal should be even stronger now.

Guitarist/vocalist, Mark Biedermann, is the only returning member from the line-up that produced The Sane Asylum back in 1988.  Joining him are Doug Piercy on guitar, Andy Galeon on drums, and Tom Gears on bass.  This is a very solid line up, made of veterans of the San Francisco scene.  The performances are very strong, and Piercy’s lead work is truly impeccable.  Biedermann’s guitar and vocals still define Blind Illusion's sound, and his presence is very strong, but it’s great to feel the positive influence of the other band members.  This is a very tight unit of talented players.

The album has a great feel, at times sounds very mysterious, but with definite clarity.  The songs beam with strength and heaviness, and the record is a great listen all the way through.  Wrath of The Gods proves that Blind Illusion was always the engine that powered the great Bay Area metal scene.

Mark Kadzielawa

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