Label: MDD Records
Release: Out Now!!!
Genre: Melodic Metal
Links: https://www.facebook.com/LankesterMerrinBand/
Line Up:
Cat Rogers – Vocals
Flo Schulz – Guitar
Steffen Vorwald – Guitar
Benjamin Offeney – Bass
Shawn Layer – Drums
Tracklist:
1. Eyes of the Night
2. High Plains Drifter
3. Hoist up the Sail
4. Immortal Prince
5. In Rank and File
6. Lords of the Flies
7. Mastermind
8. When Darkness comes
When it comes to crafting new material, Lankester Merrin has undoubtedly established their distinct identity three albums into their journey. Cat Rogers’ distinctive vocal approach transforms what could have been just another addition to the symphonic or power metal collection into something truly unique.
Rather than attempting to showcase an extreme vocal range or shatter glass with high notes, Cat delivers gritty rock vocals that perfectly complement the excellent metal musicianship displayed by her bandmates.
Among the album’s highlights are the mid-tempo tracks, with ‘Immortal Prince’ standing out for its innovative use of a rumbling undertone beneath Cat’s vocals. This unique effect, serving as an alternative to traditional backing vocals, creates an intriguing reverb-like quality that’s both fascinating and entertaining. The technical curiosity of how they achieved this sound keeps drawing me back for repeated listens.
If Doro had ventured more into power metal territory, it might sound something like ‘Lord Of The Flies‘. The track features intense bass drum work and groove-heavy guitars. The album’s storytelling prowess shines through in songs like ‘Mastermind‘, making it worth experiencing with lyrics in hand (my preferred way to listen anyway).
The incredibly catchy chorus of ‘When Darkness Comes‘ makes it my personal favorite, while the following track, ‘Valley of Tears‘, opens with haunting soft electric guitar work that perfectly showcases Cat’s vocal versatility. Her ability to handle gentler passages is simply remarkable, adding yet another dimension to this band’s impressive repertoire. This album is sure to make a significant impact on the metal scene.
Written by: Adrian Hextall
Ratings: 8/10
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