Released by: Self Release
Release Date: 15th March 2015
Genre: Power Metal
Links: bandcamp.com
Line up
Stevie K – Vocals
Shaun Nelson – Guitar
Tom Heaney – Bass
Andrew Munn – Drums
Tracklisting:
01. Revolution Calls
02. Heroes of the Lost World
03. Industrial Slaves
04. Dreamcatcher
05. Fight the Oppressor
06. Lawmakers Curse
07. Gods of War
08. Humanity’s Last Crime
09. I Stand Alone
10. Seize the Day (Carpe Diem)
It is rare that a metal band from Northern Ireland produces something with such aggression and heartfelt passion that is more than capable of competing against its European counterparts. The straight ahead metal bands have always seemed to have an inherent fear of being just that – Metal. Ironheart have risen from nowhere and delivered a killer punch with this debut release. Stevie K and Shaun Nelson have a wealth of experience behind them and this shows in the song writing and delivery. First out of the cage is the title track which if later period Helloween and the likes of Primal Fear are your thing then this will certainly appeal. The guitars are gritty with plenty of weight and shys away from the more clinical and sickly sweet tones of their European counterparts. “Gods of War” as the title suggests has a more epic feel to it with a long intro which builds into a charging riff with a rumbling double bass carrying it through with a great hook and chorus. The album is chock full of hooks, memorable guitar harmonies which will stick to you like glue. The vocals are perfect for this style of music – aggressive without relying on over the top high histrionics which unfortunately plagues this style at times and makes it unbearable. The playing on this album is outstanding, memorable riffs with guitar solos to leave you dribbling which are a mix of tasteful well placed notes splashed with high speed shredding. If I was going to criticise this at all it would be around the drum sound, I find it a bit too processed. Ironheart have released a killer first record and it will do very well for them given the correct backing.
Written by: David Mc Callum