So here it is, finally, their debut album. Having witnessed various line ups and investing in previous releases, the first full length album from Eliminator is upon us. This is perhaps their strongest line up to date too, and if the initial play through is anything to go by, (to have a lazy reference), if you like 86 to 88 Maiden, you are in for a treat.
The opener “2019” continues where previous releases left us, then when ‘The Last Horizon’ starts; well, that’s where the bands development is loud and proud. The riffs, it’s all about the riffs. With a smooth melodic tone, the galloping rhythms of latter tracks go hand in hand. One particular highlight is ‘Procession of Witches’. This is an epic metal track, filled with time changes, light and dark moods and of course, as metal as it can be when with tempo backed by a solid story in the lyrics.
The power depicted in the lower register vocals at the start of ‘Echoes’ is immense, it’s a trait very hard to find in younger musicians; as is the transition between the softer parts to the more metallic battle cry gallops, Eliminator have nailed it. ‘Fall of the Seer’ and the closer ‘Spoils of an Empire’ are as metal as they can be. Of course, ‘Last Horizon’ is augmented by the ‘go to’ recording studio (Skyhammer) and Chris Fielding. But, it’s not just about the studio; the band must have credit for the music, especially that closing tune. Riff after riff, these time signature changes and the vocal talents of new recruit Danny are make this a supreme metal salute; a reminder that the UK is still a force to be reckoned with.
With all that’s happening with this label at the moment, it is great to see the young talent that’s been treading the boards for a few years here in the UK and overseas, finally getting some studio releases out and some genuine promotion. Eliminator are a strong representation of this and I am really pleasantly surprised by the improvements I hear on this album, matching some of the live show intensity.
Summary – support the band, buy the album, go and see them live. ‘Last Horizon’ is British metal re-ignited by a younger generation who drive the scene onwards and upwards.
(8/10 Paul Maddison)
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