Castle: Welcome to the Graveyard

It's satisfying to hear a highly anticipated new release that is actually as good as people say. This is especially true for Castle, a band I've always liked but always hoped for something more from them, a sound or a style I could never quite explain. With this album, however, Castle's confidence and power stood out brilliantly. The band has put out a consistent body of music over the years but I think the songwriting is stronger and the overall sound better. I wouldn't be surprised if the intensity and ambition of this record gathered up a few more listeners for this band.

It's common to blend doom metal with melodic metal these days, but Castle's attempt to create a signature style from these musical components pays off well. Tracks like "Black Widow," "Veil of Death," "Flash of the Pentagram," and "Down in the Cauldron Bog" are especially good. For those unconvinced by Castle's output, I'd definitely suggest checking out any one of those tracks.

As for the musical performances, just a few brief comments: Elizabeth Blackwell's voice consistently projects confidence, strength, and personality on this album. Her voice blends well with Mat Davis's crunching and warm guitars. Davis's own voice is present here and there on the album but works best when it provides extra texture and variety to the music. Don't get me wrong, he doesn't have a bad voice but Blackwell should do the majority of the vocal work. As for Davis's guitar playing, it sounds great. His riffs are bold and memorable and the solos are blazing and exciting.

Track Listing:
1. Black Widow
2. Hammer and the Cross
3. Welcome to the Graveyard
4. Veil of Death
5. Flash of the Pentagram
6. Traitors Rune
7. Down in the Cauldron Bog
8. Natural Parallel

Added: July 14th 2016
Reviewer: Carl Sederholm
Score:
Related Link: Band Website
Hits: 1577
Language: english

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