Wytch Hazel: V: Lamentations

V: Lamentations is the latest album from Lancaster, UK hard rock/metal act Wytch Hazel, a band that now has a nice little selection of full-lengths, EPs, and compilation releases to their credit. This latest album, out on Metal Blade/Bad Omen Records, continues with their Christian-themed epic hard rock & metal sound, complete with sweeping vocal harmonies and glorious twin guitars.

"I Lament" is a galloping rocker to open the album, filled with energetic bass lines, speedy drums, and those wonderful twin guitar harmonies, for those who love Wishbone Ash and Thin Lizzy. It's followed by "Run the Race", and I hear some early Iron Maiden on this one, from the chugging riff to the majestic twin guitars, and a memorable chorus as well. It's one of my favorites on the album. "The Citadel" follows, as eerie keys and tasty acoustic guitars kick off this slightly proggy, epic sounding track. The vocals are outstanding, and there's a general regalness about this one that's hard to resist. More Wishbone Ash love! Then we get "Elements", which is more of a straightforward rocker, but quite catchy, complete with tasty riffs, engaging vocals, and nice use of acoustic guitar too. There's also a blistering guitar solo thrown in for good measure! "The Demon Within" is a hook-laden folk rocker, with a nice blend of acoustic and electric guitars, which really helps drive this enchanting song.

"Racing Forwards" is more majestic, Wishbone Ash Argus era love, as the twin guitars are so well done. Another really strong track. It's followed by the brief "Elixir", a little acoustic guitar/folk instrumental that doesn't overstay its welcome. There's more barnstorming Thin Lizzy-inspired hard rock on "Woven", another favorite here. Love the riffing, and the dual leads are kick ass. Having a memorable chorus is another added bonus! "Heavy Load" shows their folkier side, a very mystical, mysterious track, with haunting vocals, and loads of acoustic and electric guitars weaving around the mix. The finale is "Healing Power", featuring big, powerful riffing, emotional vocals...this one packs a punch, has a 'raise your fist to the sky' chorus...epic all the way, and a great way to end the album. Glorious twin guitar harmonies right around the mid-section, followed by blazing leads that will remind of vintage Robertson & Gorham!

Great stuff here, an album that reveals additional delights with each spin.

Track Listing
1. I Lament 04:11
2. Run The Race 04:58
3. The Citadel 05:09
4. Elements 04:33 video buy track
5. The Demon Within 04:26
6. Racing Forwards 04:13
7. Elixir 01:41
8. Woven 04:50
9. Heavy Load 04:42
10. Healing Power 06:22

Added: October 7th 2025
Reviewer: Pete Pardo
Score:
Related Link: Band @ Bandcamp
Hits: 527
Language: english

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