ALBUM REVIEW: Live in London – Zeal & Ardor
The continuing rise of ZEAL & ARDOR has been a delight to witness over the last few years. What started as a dare on internet memeboard 4chan has developed into one of the most unique and exciting projects metal has ever seen, and for brainchild Manuel Gagneux, the plaudits from all corners are no less deserved. The live show is also a sight to behold, and as such it was only a matter of time before the experience was recorded for all to listen to in their own time. That time has now come with Live In London, tracked at the band’s sold out show last year at The Electric Ballroom in the heart of Camden and released via MVKA.
As with all albums of this ilk, this is something that needs to be enjoyed in one sitting and as a complete body of work. Live In London, however, demands more than just full, undivided attention. For one, it’s a mammoth 22 tracks in length, so there’s an element of mental stamina required to keep that devotion to the cause. Secondly, there are four new tracks woven into the set, so these will require a particular consideration as Gagneux presents us the next chapter in his band’s career.
Accomplish these, though, and Live In London reveals itself as a rich, moving experience that captures the raw energy of ZEAL & ARDOR shows without taking away the edge; the exceptional production job is a factor here as well, because everything from the stellar drum work to Gagneux’s jump between black metal screams and gospel notes is perfectly balanced, thus giving the listener the most well-rounded standpoint of a ZEAL & ARDOR show without the obvious one of being there in the flesh.
The highlights are many; the blistering Row Row that attacks the senses just about pips the rest if one wants an absolute standout, but it’s a very close contest with the likes of Children’s Summon, Come On Down and a raucous Fire Of Motion also doing their best to metaphorically punch the living daylights of anyone tuning in. This doesn’t mean that every bit is dialled up to eleven, however: Built On Ashes is slower and reflective, which is important when you consider the weight behind some of the lyrics regarding slavery and the treatment of those caught up in the trade; another great example is Blood In The River, where the ritualistic chanting is enough to induce a mini-trance for its short duration. Of the four new songs, all are well-crafted and stand up to the rest of the material, but closing tune Baphomet, with its tribal drum beat and gang vocal, is probably the pick of the bunch.
It’s impressive enough that ZEAL & ARDOR are selling out venues like the Ballroom already, but to do so on a Sunday night just adds a big cherry on top of the cake for a band that are in a league of their own. Those in attendance that night will know how special a night it was to be in attendance, but thanks to Live In London, now everyone can concur with them.
Rating: 8/10
Live In London is out now via MVKA.
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