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Album Review: Heathen – Empire Of The Blind

Heathen In Black.

Hello, my friends and today I take a stroll over to the Bay Area and welcome back Heathen, who offer up their latest LP ‘Empire Of The Blind’ a deadly dozen of modern classic Thrash that mixes the tuneful alongside the clamorous and caustic clanking that is typical of the genre. There is something for everyone here because although it has Thrash at its core, the rousing choruses are so melodic and graceful that they are accessible on all levels. 

The current line- up features David White- vocals, Lee Altus- guitar, Kragen Lum- guitar, Jason Mirza- bass and Jim DeMaria- drums  who interact as  cohesive, tight knit unit, they understand what each player brings to the band and they formulate the artistry accordingly. 

There is a throwback to the 80’s at the inception of Thrash metal, unfortunately Heathen remained bubbling just beneath the surface, now after a ten- year gap, they secure a top tier record that demands your attention.  

After a palate cleanser  ‘This Rotting Sphere’ we are plagued with ‘The Blight’ and therein we realise that we  ‘reward the fools and liars’ now correct me if I’m wrong but this is happening right now my friends. The title track contains a chorus that is tremulous and rapturous,  effectuating a lifting of dampened spirits. The video for single ‘Sun In My Hand’ is reminiscent of  Cellar Darling, animation that is a dreamscape, mesmerising and beguiling.

When there is ‘Blood To Be Let’ you can be assured that ‘ a glass of red will help you to forget’ mmmm… I wonder if he is talking about a glass of wine. 

There is room for a ballad amongst the cut and thrust, ‘Shrine Of Apathy’ is what some would see as a weak spot; I think it shows a gentleness that we need alongside all the frenzied headbanging.

We take a peek inside a cult in ‘Devour’ and learn about that most grotesque individual Rev. Jim Jones and the tragedy he orchestrated in Guyana. It feels as though we haven’t moved on from that, we are still controlled by individuals who are greedy and demand our obedience and our undivided attention. The triple- headed beast to the beast finish line comprises ‘A Fine Red Mist’, ’The Gods Divide’  and ‘Monument To Ruin’ songs that are unafraid, songs that reinforce and invigorate our muddled minds and ravaged bodies. 

Each song has the trademark guitar solo, intricate and deftly presented to add interest and character. With a variety of moods and broods from these Bay Area dudes you can see that music is something that if you are passionate about it, it will never leave you.

‘Tis the season to be Heathen’ welcome back my friends.

Azra Pathan

Heathen – Empire Of The Blind out now via Nuclear Blast.

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