Review of Dragonlord - Rapture

First and foremost, obviously Eric Peterson has been doing his homework. Listening to the ultimate heavy from across the sea. Those of course being the likes of Dimmu Borgir, Immortal, Cradle of Filth and quite possibly Enslaved. I was surprised that he didn't even go as far as to attempt to sing a tune in Norwegian. I must say the release of Rapture truly shocked me. I am quite aware of the last 2 Testament disks, which touched slightly and I stress slightly on some possible form of an actual Death Metal attempt. Demonic treading those waters a bit stronger, ever so inconspicuously. So in no way was I prepared for Peterson to release an album with some possible substance in the world of Black Metal. Two elements ultimately push Dragonlord into the realm of Black Metal. First of course being the vocals, Peterson's performance is astonishing. I had absolutely no idea he was even capable of such a punishing delivery. Leaving me no choice but to marvel at the fortitude in which he proceeds. The second element would have to be the hypnotic undertones forced at the fingers of Lyle Livingston. Dark melodies deep within the song structure only accentuating evil deities hidden within the mood. Now these factors feed on the full Black Metal theme, but in no way will I leave out the complimentary performances of Steve DiGiorgio who needs no words of praise. This musical monstrosity walks on the same waters that I spoke of Testament only treading. Jon Allen's drumming is the final element to Peterson's vision. His drumming ability when pushed to such magnitudes of metal shine through gracefully. Dragonlord's future has been sealed. They have proven that an American band can deliver a form of Black Metal. They have not reached the pinnacle of intensity such as the bands that I have mentioned above. However I do believe if Peterson does push forward in the years to come, we could have a possible contender. Bottom Line: Dragonlord is Born to Darkness

When I heard that Eric Peterson, longtime axeman/songwriter of Testament, was putting together a black/thrash metal project, I was immediately excited. Then came the news that he was recruiting one of my favorite bass players in Steve Digiorgio as well as Jon Allen both of Sadus. With yet another addition in Steve Smyth, Eric also brought in Lyle Livingston (former lead singer/current keyboardist for Psypheria) to finalize his search for the all out black/thrash metal feel. Sounds like an all-star lineup, doesn't it? And why not? Look at the lineup on Testament's The Gathering. One of the best I've seen in my lifetime, and obviously Eric just simply wants to surround himself with quality musicians. It seems like every time I hear this album it just keeps getting better and better. I must admit that the first time I heard it I was a bit skeptical, but like a lot of albums it sometimes takes a few listens (all the way through I must add) before it all comes together. That has been the case with this disc. There's nothing worse than inviting "Mr. Critic" over to the house to try and turn him on to some kick ass metal. After hearing a couple of minutes of the first track he seems to have it all figured out. "This band sounds like that band," or "This song sounds like that song." Sooner or later you're wondering why you even bother with this guy. I know I'm babbling, but I'm simply trying to make my point here. I've played the "Mr. Critic" role a time or two, and I realize now that it's simply not worth judging any music until it's been thoroughly examined to the fullest extent. I read somewhere down the line that Eric Peterson is a big fan of Dimmu Borgir. That definitely shows on this album. Now, I'm not saying that he's being a copycat by any means, but it's no surprise after hearing the first few songs that it's prominently the style he was going for. I will say he's achieved that sound pretty well on Rapture. I had absolutely no idea this guy could growl like this, and he has a strong clean style to go with it. The drumming on this one heavily compliments the thickly layered and well thought up guitar riffs, and anyone who knows anything about metal knows that with Steve Digiorgio providing the bass lines there are no questions in that department. If you're looking to hear a well rounded black/thrash metal album, then this is definitely a quality release well worth adding to your wish list. Favorite Track: Tradition And Fire

Release Details

Dragonlord

Rapture

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