I don’t think it’s a coincidence that there’s been a noticeable upsurge in the amount of fantasy themed Power Metal albums coming out recently, many of which were conceived during or just after the whole coronavirus malarkey. Up-beat Metal and harmless escapism gets more important when certain freedoms are prohibited, but let’s face it, socially distanced knights in PPI battling with dragons in fireproof facemasks would ruin the illusion somewhat, so escapism it is, and on the whole it’s generally a pleasure to hear. Prydain are an American based band (with a couple of Greek members) who open their album with an orchestrated narrated intro called ‘Sword and Sorcery’, so there’s no doubt what musical territory we’re heading in here!

They are the brainchild of American guitarist Austin Dixon, a well-connected fellow indeed, who wasted no time in enlisting the help of Greek multi-instrumental virtuoso Bob Katsionis (Warrior Path, Wonders, Stray Gods and ex-quite a lot of other well respected Metal bands), alongside Pyramaze (etc…) keyboardist Jonah Weingarten and Silent Winter vocalist Mike Lee (or Mike Livas as he’s also known). Crafting an album of expertly delivered galloping Power Metal, these four are ably assisted by a host of guests that include vocalists David Åkesson, John Yelland, Stefani Keogh and Harry Tadayon, plus guitar contributions from Mikael Dahl, Jens Ludwig and Jimmy Hedlund, bringing further mass to an already weighty album.

It’s hard to believe this is a debut really, but given the pedigree of the people involved, then I guess it’s no surprise. The songs are up-tempo, joyous and interesting, guitars and keyboards working together perfectly whilst the main vocals have that wonderful Greek/Italian flamboyance, effortlessly skipping from mid-range to high when needed. Comparisons are unnecessary once I say that everything you would hope and expect from this type of album and given the people involved mean you won’t be disappointed. There’s nothing jarringly unexpected, the whole album is delivered with utter professionalism and is of a high calibre. It’s bizarre really, but when an album in this style is done this comprehensively with so little to find fault with, it actually leaves a reviewer with very little to say. So I guess it’s simple really – if you like Power Metal with a Fantasy theme, then I’m quite certain you’ll enjoy this impressive offering.

(8/10 Andy Barker)

https://www.facebook.com/prydainofficial

https://prydain-limbmusic.bandcamp.com/album/the-gates-of-aramore