Sometimes, having the top 40 shoved in my face all the time by the radio and pop culture at large, I begin to wonder if any good old-fashioned music still exists. In a world with Taylor Swift, Ariana Grande and similar artists it is easy to lose hope in music these days. Sure, logically you know that what you love is still out there but subcutaneously you still need to be reminded every once in a while. Demons & Wizards’ third album, simply titled ‘III’, is that reminder that you need. After 15 years, they are back to let us know there is still good old fashioned music being made today.
There are plenty of hints of old school rock and metal all through this album. ‘Timeless Spirit’ for example has some flairs of the ‘60s mixed in with ‘80s power metal. Even within the track, the evolution feels so smooth that there were times where the tone would totally change but I did not realize it at first. Every shift felt so natural I found myself re-listening to tracks trying to figure out how they pulled it off so flawlessly.
The musical style is everything I could want from a great power metal album even if the overall style is a little more reserved than some alternatives in the genre. This is more like the middle ground between heavy metal and balls to the wall power metal. This makes it more approachable while still delivering on all that I expect. The guitar is heavy with solos and rhythm progressions that call right back to the 80s just a little dirtier allowing the music to sound modern as well as old school.
The vocals and lyrics follow a similar story. Except for the times when the tracks will soften up and the vocals take a more lightly sung style, most of the time you have that nice power metal scream we know and love. Once again though taken down a little from the more extreme balls to the wall style that some bands get. Here it is a little more tempered and mixed in with a few other vocal styles that give a unique flair and really help to make every track feel like something special and more importantly very intentional. There was never a time where it seemed like the band was phoning it in. Instead, every aspect of every track was well thought out. It makes for a great experience.
If you are a fan of power metal or heavy metal or even most classic rock this album is a must-have. You will love it. If you are someone that is looking for a break from the same 10 tracks on repeat on the radio or just want something new I think this is a wonderful album to start with as it is approachable while still opening you to a whole new world of music you might not have considered before. It is a wonderful album and, whoever you are, it is worth it to give this one a chance. I don’t think you will regret it.
- ‘III’ is out now. You can get your copy HERE.
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