“Chasing the Dragon” is one of those albums that instantly blows you away after just one listen! As you listen to it more, it only gets better. This is a second offering from Helms Deep, and this band is already making huge waves in the traditional heavy metal scene. Helms Deep was created by guitarist/vocalist Alex Sciortino, who is the writer and the brain behind this operation.
Sciortino is an amazing writer, but what’s even more impressive is how he is able to balance the rock, hard rock, and metal influences from the 1970s, 1980s, and 1990s. All of which appears in his songs on this album and is served with delight. Also, the album is very balanced when it comes to applying speed and staying on a mid-pace level. What brings it together is how powerful it all sounds. There’s a level of joy in this music, and you know it’s coming from the right place.
John Gallagher of Raven once again joins Helms Deep on bass and backup vocals. The band is completed by Ray DeTone on lead guitar and Hal Aponte on drums. DeTone is also credited as the co-producer alongside Sciortino. The performances are superb; they give each song exactly what it needs.
“Chasing the Dragon” exemplifies a perfection that is rare nowadays in the field of traditional heavy metal. “Treacherous Ways,” which introduced Helms Deep, was only an indication of what’s to come. “Chasing the Dragon” proves there is substance here and staying power for this new and exciting band. Already a favorite to dominate the top ten lists of 2025!
Mark Kadzielawa
No comments:
Post a Comment