Californian epic/traditional metal band formed in 2019 and came to my attention with loose association to Keep It True festival forums (the album was mastered by Bart Gabriel). So hence, you rather expect what is coming from this release. As an American band, they do hold true the similarities to Iced Earth, Eternal Champion and Visigoth, with some older Manilla Road references thrown in. Gatekeeper’s Jeff Black also mixed the album, so you will find some flavour of that band too if you had not already guessed by the artwork.

There is passion, hooks and melodies; it took me a good two or three listens before becoming one with the songs on offer, hence, not an instant attentive release. The production itself sounds a little restrictive in places, but sounds better on bigger sound systems. ‘Middle Earth’ is obviously Lord of the Rings inspired, starts out and begins to build, but does characterise the quality that present on the remainder of the album. The track ‘Godless’ has some high Ripper Owens screams and a feel that is of Priest’s music from his residency with the band. The lead track ‘Soul of Cinder’ and the following ‘Gods Will’ finally start to retain to memory. They have classic tones, melody and are memorable, hence my earlier retention comment.

For a young band, this is a good starting point, I have to admit it did not flow well for me; it took a lot of time. The ideas and the presence are here, the recording is just not jumping out in unity. There are many bands playing this style, to compete, you have to be at the top of your game. I feel K&G are strong with their musical arrangements and visual presence (artwork and styling), but I find the overall sound is a little flat in places.  That said, this is a very good start and I am sure the epic metal will flow and blossom as time marches on.

(7/10 Paul Maddison)

https://www.facebook.com/knightandgallow

https://knightandgallow.bandcamp.com/album/for-honor-and-bloodshed