ALBUM REVIEW: Ascension – Paladin

Whenever the term ‘power metal’ is mentioned it is instantly synonymous with the likes of DRAGONFORCE, BLIND GUARDIAN and RHAPSODY OF FIRE. Hoping to throw their name in the hat is Atlanta’s PALADIN. Having only a few tracks to their name up to this point it was time for them to show the world what they’re capable of and this moment comes in the form of debut full length effort Ascension which is available now via Prosthetic Records. Do the four piece have what it takes to carve their path to prominence?

Awakening instantly makes its presence felt with a piercing round of falsetto, energetic shredding takes hold as dramatic power metal elements combine flawlessly with the sharp thrash heaviness. Fretboard melting solo pieces are thrown into the mix to create quite an emphatic opening statement. Divine Providence commences with a straight up heavy metal vibe which lets you get settled before surprising you with demonic sounding growls. Despite the introduction of a more aggressive nature there is an uplifting tone in the air as slick lead work meshes together with galloping riffs. Carpe Diem picks up the tempo as further bouts of swift guitar work come to the forefront. The track keeps you guessing as it seamlessly shifts between styles as enticing vocal bursts supplement the growing intensity.

Call Of The Night continues down the route of choosing darker tones whilst harnessing a theatrical manner. The solo work which follows is enough to make your head spin as the atmosphere is swiftly overhauled by frenzied drumming and demonic growls. Black Omen gets quickly acquainted with expertly executed sweeping riffs and potent drum beats. Soaring vocals float gracefully over the enticing melodies. The combinations of groove ridden bass lines and dual lead work provides all the hallmarks of a signature metal track. Fall From Grace resumes the thrash assault whilst maintaining the upbeat, bouncy mood. The guitar work in this track is intoxicating and is so effortlessly achieved, showcasing the sheer talent which PALADIN have at their disposal.

Bury The Light exudes a warm, invigorating tone as the energetic stride refuses to run out of momentum. The clean vocals combine effectively with the abrasiveness of the harsher stylings as they jostle for prominence. Just past the midway point an anthemic thrash metal riff is unleashed that is guaranteed to ensue a sea of headbanging. Shoot For The Sun goes supernova with a flourish of rapid instrumentation to kickstart the track. Providing some of the most entertaining moments on Ascension there is passion and enthusiasm flowing throughout, it will be a grave mistake to miss this off their future live performances.

Vagrant sustains the feel good spirit with a buoyant tempo as the album reaches the final chapters. Glimmers of brutality (including blastbeats and a boisterous bellow which rises from the depths) return to keep you on the edge of your seat. Dawn Of Rebirth charges towards the finish line with additional shredding and melodic lead work. Addictive thrash riffing overlaid with mind bending solo segments maintain your focus. Ascension continues to introduce new and inventive sounds into proceedings even this close to the final curtain. Folk elements join forces with a slower pacing to enhance the dramatic demeanour. Evil sounding black metal tinges seep through adding an extra level of bite.

Power metal has a tendency to be overzealous and can get very predictable, very quickly but this couldn’t be further from the truth with Ascension. The thrash metal elements which are seamlessly incorporated keep the tracks full of intrigue and diversity. You never quite know what is going to follow as the soaring vocals and powerful growls follow no particular blueprint but accompany the unfolding styles perfectly. PALADIN have found their niche and have executed it flawlessly.

Rating: 8/10

Ascension is out now via Prosthetic Records.

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