Ashes Of Ares formed in 2012 by former Iced Earth members Matt Barlow and Freddie Vidales with the line up completed by former Nevermore drummer Van Williams.In 2013 they released their debut self titled album and captivated audiences with their electrifying live shows.In 2017 following the departure of Van Williams the duo released their sophomore album in 2018 “Well Of Souls” which showcased a more intense and expansive sound within the duo's songwriting.In 2022 the third album “Emperors And Fools” saw another evolution in their sound which built on the darkness and aggression on the previous album.Now 2025 sees the release of the fourth album “New Messiahs” which was recorded and mastered by Byron Filson at Villain Recording in Phoenix, Arizona, the album features stunning artwork by Kamil Pietruczynik, bringing a visual dimension to the sonic experience. 

The acoustic intro to “Novus Ordo” just builds quickly gaining power, building intrigue and also an insight for ones to come on this record.Leading on into the title track of this opus “New Messiahs” which is heavy ,very uptempo kicking off this album in style and I suspect will be a monster of a track live.”Two Graves” just carries on the heavy momentum with some great intricate guitar work with some great technicality in the rhythm department.The acoustic led “Where You Go” calms things down temporarily before pounding drums lead the charge into a more heavier direction,with Matt Barlow letting go with a large vocal range.”Wake Of Vultures” sees Kyle Taylor run riot leading the way with some heavy percussion work,a track which would get any mosh pit whipped into a frenzy.”Infection Deception” is another track full of heavy guitar riffs & rhythm which has an 80’s metal vibe.”Atrophy” gets the 2nd half of this album off with a frenzy of heavy drums and guitars with a heavy bass groove courtesy of Freddie Vidales  adding to the heavy energy filling my room.The highlight of the whole album for me is the more laid back “Keep On Walking” which sees a more restrained vocal but packs powerful punch in the chorus also building towards the latter stages led by some great guitar runs.”The Hawk And The Dove”  shows a more melodic side to Ashes Of Ares but there is still that heavy tint to the track which fuses together nicely which also has a dark theme which I also felt in the aggressive charged “Lust To Feed”.”From Hell He Rides” the penultimate track is another heavy intense number which I picture and imagine being in a Marvel Movie or TV show playing in a high action scene.The album ends with a cover of a deep cut Elton John track “And The House Fell Down” taken from the “The Captain And The Kid” album which really rocks and sounds cool.

“New Messiahs” was a great listen from start to finish and it had my full attention which I can honestly say never waned after numerous listens.A great heavy/power  metal album which has some twists and surprises.with  plenty of fist pumping,headbanging moments to savour for a long time.An album not to be missed and overlooked.