Stormspell Records latest series looks at putting to c.d. the demos of various bands from the U.S. and Europe that previously only had them available as download or limited tape/cd release. Brought out in the fall of 2013, this five disc set is a fine collection that, according to the series' statement is "dedicated to current bands playing in the vein of the olde." All are presented in a three panel digi-pack format with varying degrees of information for each band that is featured. All share the same cover art with only the volume number and band name/logo changing from disc to disc. Each volume does have a (re)print of the original art on one of the panels. I will say that the packaging threw me little at first as this is the most bare bones (by Stormspell standards) that Iordian has brought out; but in hindsight I see how this approach fits the music/theme.
"Volume #1: GLADIUS, a speed/thrash retro madness from Oregon, for fans of Nasty Savage, Have Mercy, Blessed Death, etc." First out of the gate with volume #1 is Gladius. It has a great feel to it that hearkens to that era when heavy metal started to get faster, and faster, and faster; just as thrash was getting started. Over 30 minutes of well written and well performed tunes with vocals that are all over the place that easily match the music. http://gladiuspdx.bandcamp.com
"Volume #2: GRAVEN RITE, arcane epic metal revivalists from Texas, akin to 80s masters such as Tramontane, Manilla Road, Longings Past, Cirith Ungol, etc." EPIC is the key word here. Everything has that big feel to it on this second volume. The band sounds massive in this recording. Vocals have just the right amount of effect(s) in their laid back approach that gives these Texan's a unique approach to their metal aggression. 20 minutes of high calibre, well executed songs. http://gravenrite.bandcamp.com
"Volume #3: TERMINUS, traditional Heavy Metal with NWOBHM flair. For fans of Isen Torr, Lord Weird Slough Feg, Thin Lizzy, etc." This Dublin, Northern Ireland band's disc of 18 or so minutes of metal takes me back to a time when the rush of hearing well played harmony guitars was more than heard, but felt. These guys are the real deal and have come up with great songs that can hold their own alongside more veteran and long standing bands. http://terminusni.bandcamp.com
"Volume #4: VIGILANCE, Crunchy, occult, NWOBHM flavored traditional metal for fans of early Iron Maiden, Cloven Hoof, Angel Witch, etc." The label hit the nail on the head with their description of the Slovenian four piece. If you did not check out the release dates on these songs you would swear you found a long lost band from 30 years ago. The song writing, production and atmosphere from this 36 minute demo anthology (3 demo recordings) pays homage to NWOBHM with a credibility that is not lacking in sincerity. http://vigilanceofficial.bandcamp.com
"Volume #5: WILDHUNT, 80s teutonic power/speed metal for fans of RISK, DRIFTER, PARADOX, etc." Hailing from Austria, this duo (now a full band) has come up with some fantastic thrash metal that is somewhat experimental without being technical. Straight forward with enough musical turns to keep you guessing. http://wildhunthrash.bandcamp.com/
Keep in mind that these releases are demo quality, but that is a good part of this series' charm. I cannot pick a favourite, as each has their own merits. PLAY LOUD!
Subject: Jewels of Gwahlur 
Fri Dec 27, 2013 12:48 am