Twilight of the Gods are somewhat of a heavy metal supergroup, consisting of Primordial vocalist Alan Averill, drummer Nick Barker (Cradle of Filth, Dimmu Borgir, Testament, Exodus), guitarists Rune Eriksen (Aura Noir, Ava Inferi, Mayhem) & Patrik Lindgren (Thyrfing), and bassist Frode Glesnes (Einherjer). As you can see, plenty of pedigree in that group, mostly on the extreme side of the pond, but their new CD Fire Over the Mountain actually delivers classic early '80s styled epic heavy metal. Think Manowar, Bathory, Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, and Rainbow for references, sort of.
Throughout it all, Averill shines in a big way. He's long been one of the best kept secrets in metal, fronting pagan/black metal act Primordial for so many years and delivering top notch performances time and time again, yet he's relatively unknown to the masses, which is a real shame. Here on Fire On the Mountain he takes this traditional metal style and makes it his own. Songs like "Destiny Forged in Blood" and "Children of Cain" have a grand, regal, majestic air to them, featuring tight, effective riffs and plenty of Averill's forceful vocals. He gets in some high pitched wailing on the amazing title track that will please any fan of Rob Halford, and soars on the slower, doomy "Sword of Damocles", which is also notable for some galloping rhythms and tasty twin guitar harmonies. "The End of History" provides some of the albums best headbanging moments, and it's also one of the more epic tunes at nearly 9-minutes long.
Considering that this band was originally conceived as a fun Bathory tribute act in 2010, it's amazing to see what they've eventually morphed into here. Yes, the spirit of classic Bathory can certainly be heard (especially Quorthon's more epic material), but the band have really embraced the early '80s classic metal sound, as well as the NWOBHM movement, and delivered a really enjoyable album. More please!!
Track Listing
01. Destiny Forged In Blood
02. Children Of Cain
03. Fire On The Mountain (1683)
04. Preacher Man
05. Sword Of Damocles
06. The End Of History
07. At Dawn We Ride
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