ALBUM REVIEW: When Angels Kill – Fifth Angel

Heavy metallers FIFTH ANGEL disappeared into thin air for multiple decades after parting ways with their record label. After the turn of the millennium rumours were circulating of a potential reincarnation, but it took until 2009 for this to become a reality and 2010 was in fact their first ever live performance. Since then the band have never looked back and are now prepared to unveil their latest effort entitled When Angels Kill via Nuclear Blast on June 16th. What will they have in store for us this time around?

Descent Into Darkness sets a dramatic, theatrical tone to proceedings leading directly into the crunchy riffing of When Angels Kill. Powerful vocal melodies don’t take long to firmly seize the spotlight. Superb lead runs get this release off to a flamboyant start. Resist The Tyrant maintains the skilful instrumentation in vibrant bursts whilst the remainder of the track focuses more on driving home the unfolding conceptual narrative. On Wings Of Steel ups the ante, injecting some pace into the picture. The distinct catchiness is particularly addictive.

We Are Immortal displays a confident, determined swagger, like a call to arms ushering you into the midst of battle – a good old fashioned headbanger. Empire Of Hate quickly grabs your attention with its infectious energy. Galloping riff work joins forces with prominent drum beats, providing a sure fire hit built for the stage. Run To The Black carries that enthusiasm with commanding vocal surges and an alluring soundscape. Seven Angels breaks the fourth wall with a neat spoken introduction before returning to business as usual. An abundance of flair and vigour are unleashed to keep the momentum topped up.

Blinded And Bleeding digs deeper into FIFTH ANGEL‘s grittier nature, utilising darker, more menacing melodies to great effect. Kill The Pain takes a solemn turn as the protagonist experiences a variety of emotions on his journey. This concept appropriately slots into the chosen stylings. Five Days To Madness lifts the energy levels with its intriguing spirit. The lyrical content is still somewhat immersed in doom but the string of proficient solo segments offers up a significant highlight.

Ashes To Ashes does a great job of depicting the end of existence. The sombre theatrics amplify the emotions displayed by frontman Steven Carlson. The shift in gears pays dividends, showcasing one of the most impressive chapters of this release. The End Of Everything follows suit with its portrayal of hopelessness. The softer piano-led excerpt adds a poignant moment of despair. Light The Skies gears up for the finale with a heightened tempo on top of a masterful vocal performance and plentiful fretboard weaving – a fitting euphoric conclusion.

When Angels Kill is packed with thrills, spills and excitement but with a runtime of almost 70 minutes it may begin to test your attention span. Every track has plenty of promise and feels like a necessary part of the process but having four tracks consecutively spanning nearly 25 minutes will be a challenge to the strongest of wills. Still, this is a commendable outing for the Washington-based outfit.

Rating: 8/10

When Angels Kill is set for release on June 16th via Nuclear Blast Records.

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