Well, well, well it seems that No Remorse has hit the jack pot with this one. MACE ‘n’ CHAIN is the new sensational proposition for epic metal fans, and when I mean epic metal fans, I am referring to the hardcore ones, those who will not settle with sweet melodies and fake retro feeling. We are talking about war here: plain and simple as epic heavy – warlike – metal can be.
I know that epic metal is a current trend, however most bands tend to dwell into mediocrity focusing more into a retro image rather than creating epic metal songs. This isn’t happening here. MnC care for power and the glory of battle. Songs are riff-less, mostly driven by guitar harmonies, and there is an ongoing stream of heavy distorted guitar all over the place, as if everyone goes bananas all of the sudden, playing as fast and hard as possible.
There are numerous influences from classic NWOBHM acts like RAVEN, TREDEGAR, BLITZKRIEG alongside with their U.S. counterparts: RIOT, MANILLA ROAD, THE RODS and somewhere between are the European sound references: HEAVY LOAD, KILLER, CUTTY SARK, GOTHAM CITY, etc. And yes, there are hinges of modern metal acts like GATEKEEPER, GREY WOLF and BLAZON RITE, however the heart and soul of MnC is deep in the 80’s.
Songs are short and straight as a war spear. The piercing sound of the guitars is boosted by the, almost, chantlike vocals and the whole thing sounds raw. There is no place for technical riffing and endless soloing, instead things are kept as primeval as possible. Songs like “Labyrinthian black”, “Bloodied talons” and the absolute highlight “Upon the anvil formed” are plain examples of the band’s sound and capabilities.
MACE ‘n’ CHAIN may be not be re-inventing the steel, however their album is a must for all those who live and breathe for manly played heavy epic metal.
Check the discussion about the album in our forum pages.
