Rise
Icarus Witch
•
September 6, 2012
Formed in 2003, ICARUS WITCH came together out of a shared passion for classic heavy music with a goal of creating the ultimate melodic Rock / traditional Metal hybrid to bridge the words of modern and vintage. I think that this sub-genre is very easy to be identified with. So many songs that came out of this sub-genre considered mostly as Metal anthems (Thank god...). ICARUS WITCH opened for bands such as: BLACK SABBATH, YNGWIE MALMSTEEN, KAMELOT, DORO, TWISTED SISTER and the list goes on and on so you know they are the best of the best.
Now, for those among us who wonder what or who Icarus is, your time has come and I'll be more than happy to answer this important question: In Greek mythology, Icarus is the son of the master craftsman Daedalus. The main story told about Icarus is his attempt to escape from Crete by means of wings that his father constructed from feathers and wax. He ignored instructions not to fly too close to the sun, and the melting wax caused him to fall into the sea where he drowned. The myth shares thematic similarities with that of Phaëton- both are usually taken as tragic examples of hubris or failed ambition - and is often depicted in art. So you see? You get educated for free no charge.
The new album, "Rise", is easily their strongest release yet and it's always awesome to be exposed to band like ICARUS WITCH that preserves the good old fashion Heavy Metal ways. Unfortunately I would really like to hear some new ideas and not to feel like I am about to take my time machine and get back in time. Please, use some original ideas next time. Tracks like "Nothing Is Forever" and "Rise" and even "Tragedy" are sort of original but the rest is like baking the same cake over and over again.
Christopher Shaner (Vocals): If Icarus was alive he'd probably sound like this. Shaner has managed to bring his best when it comes to his vocals abilities: good variety and even a better vocal range and this roughness... breath-taking!!! I think that Shaner just revived Icarus and this dude is teaching him how to fly!!! Dave Watson & Quinn Lukas (Guitars): If I'll leave the lack of originality aside, both of these two fine gentlemen are actually not bad. Their trademark is sliding and mind-exploding guitar solos and why not?! This is Heavy Metal, they should do this and they're doing this in their own awesome way! Yet again, the key word it originality!!! Jason Myers (Bass) & Tom Wierzbicky (Drums): Both of the instruments are anemic. Not good at all. If a band like ICARUS WITCH wants to bring the thunder they'll have to get better than that, however, Rise is their strongest release yet so I seesome upward trend and potential.
So, "Rise" up, dear ICARUS WITCH. You're on the highway now!
7 / 10
Good
"Rise" Track-listing:
1. The End
2. (This is) The New Revolution
3. Rise
4. Asylum Harbour
5. Coming To The Storm
6. Tragedy
7. Say When
8. Break The Cycle
9. Nothing Is Forever
10. Pray
11. In The Dark
12. Last Call For Living
Icarus Witch Lineup:
Christopher Shaner- Vocals
Dave Watson - Guitar
Quinn Lukas - Guitar
Jason Myers - Bass
Tom Wierzbicky - Drums
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