By DJ Monk
Despite the band having been kicking around for nigh on a decade now, I first came across the trans-Atlantic collaboration by the name of Legion around this time last year, when their previous album, ‘Rising’, found its way on to the death decks here at ÜRHQ. At that time, it was difficult to find out much information about this particular outfit, as there were more than 30 bands of the same name listed on the venerable Encyclopaedia Metallum. However, some Jethro Gibbs-style investigation uncovered the fact this particular incarnation is an amalgam of some very highly experienced and respected musicians, led by vocalist Phil Vincent (hopefully known to ÜR readers as the singer with Cranston, D’Ercole and Tragik) alongside three former members of Bob Catley’s solo backing band – in bassist Gavin Cooper, guitarist Vince O’Regan and keyboardist Irvin Parratt – alongside the latter’s Escape/Pulse bandmate, drummer Andy Pierce. Now, here we are, just shy of 12 months later with Legion’s ninth album seeking ‘Redemption’ for any previous sins which they (or their record company) may have committed…
Like its predecessor (I’ll admit to not being familiar with any of their previous releases prior to ‘Rising’), ‘Redemption’ is an extremely decent melodic metal album, filled to the brim with all the right ingredients: solid rhythms, thoughtful song constructions, mellifluous melodies, highly effective and efficient harmonies, all combined with crunching riffs, searing (but surprisingly understated) solos and topped with a magnificent vocal performance from Vincent, who once again proves the diversity of both his range and talent.
The one major difference between ‘Rising’ and ‘Redemption’ is that the new offering is somewhat lighter in its touch, stressing more the melodic elements than the metallic ones, with ‘90s-style radio-friendly anthems such as ‘Reach For The Sky’ and ‘Run’ really helping to showcase the band’s collective and individual abilities to great effect. Yes, it does have its heavier moments, but the overall feel is one of melody of muscle – although there is plenty of the latter, driving forward the songs with the appropriate level of energy and passion.
In these dark times of self-isolation and uncertainty over the bullshit we’re being fed by the interweb, there is probably going to be only one constant, and that is that rock ‘n’ roll will never fail to provide us with redemption: with their album of the same name, Legion have gone a long way towards proving just that, and one listen to this album will undoubtedly shine a little light into the darkness that otherwise seems to be encompassing us in these unique times.
- ‘Redemption’ is out now. You can get your copy HERE.
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