Review Summary: A masterclass in restraint and tasteful excess.
I have taken a considerable haitus from writing reviews. Why? The simple answer is life. I don't have a lot of free time. Consequently, I promised myself that I wouldn't write a review until a release really compelled me too. I intended for this review to be for a new release. However, the record that I wanted to review already received a detailed analysis by our very own PsychicChris. The album I had in mind was Chasing the Dragon by Helm's Deep. These days, I have been listening a bunch of new wave of traditional heavy metal.
As a OSDM and black metal stalwart, I have to say I have gotten a little bored with the sound. This isn't a critique of the bands faithfully carrying the banner, I just needed a change of pace. USPM and the NWTHM have fit the bill. Seeing that my favorite release of the year has already been reviewed, I figured I could contribute via a hidden gem that has yet to receive a review on this site. That release is none other than Breathe Deep the Dark by Destiny's End. Today, Destiny's End would be considered a supergroup. You have James Rivera, the vocalist of Helstar, fronting the band, and the rest of the band was part of New Eden.
USPM is a fascinating genre. As opposed to their European counterparts, melody isn't the focal point. USPM has a more crude sound. Its dirtier and more riff centric than Helloween or Blind Guardian. The influences are clear. Judas Priest and Iron Maiden are clearly put on a pedestal. However, USPM pushes the boundaries. How far can they take this sound before it turns into thrash metal? Breath Deep the Dark is a relentless onslaught of riffs, buts its accompanied by vocals that rival that of Bruce Dickinson and Rob Halford. If you want NWBOHM with more bite, this is the genre for you.
USPM is raw and unforgiving. Naturally, I think Breathe Deep the Dark is the quintessential USPM album. The band is straddling the line between thrash and traditional metal. Rivera's vocals are an undeniable force. In fact, I think this record may be his best effort. Which makes the guitarwork even more outstanding. It is extremely difficult to pinpoint what makes this album an essential listen. The vocals, while outstanding, are heavily complimented by the amazing riffs which are further accentuated by the tasteful percussion. In short, this is my default USPM default recommendation. I simply cannot think of a better representation of the genre.
