My God, where in the holy hells have SLOW ORDER been my whole life? "Eternal Fire" represents their sophomore release and their first released via Argonauta Records. Just a heads up here, if you're not keeping an eye on Argonauta's band roster, you're likely missing out on a virtual powerhouse of talent. The Italian label is discovering and signing some of the most innovative bands in heavy music these days. I'm always excited to see one Argonauta's album downloads in my review assignments as very rarely am I let down.

SLOW ORDER are a Italian band that craft some of the finest heavy instrumentals I've had the pleasure of hearing lately. A total of eight tracks that total 34 minutes, there's no wasted notes to be found here. These songs, though vocal-less, are unquestionably emotive and descriptive. The trio of musicians have focused on their collective love of the low strings and their influences of early metal pioneers (SABBATH, CREAM, ZEPPELIN) to create a instrumental masterpiece.

The album opens with the title track, "Eternal Fire", and initially, you're not sure what to expect.  It's heavy and it's melodic, and it's really infectious. Next, is "Obsessive Tale" and again, the combination of low groove and thundering rhythms drive home the power, all while the guitar weaves a spell with it's highlighted leads. "Serpent's Son" comes roaring in feedback laden and drum heavy, grinding out crunchy riffs with complex time signature changes. Not content to rely on the same approaches back to back, "Eclipse" swirls in with keys and tribal rhythms as a contrasting track for the fury that comes next with "Kavanar" and "The Hunter".  The calming acoustic guitar of "Starweed" restores a balance, all while introducing it's own chaos via minor chords. Finally, "Black Mass" closes the album out and left this listener desiring more.

SLOW ORDER's "Eternal Fire" may fly under the radar a bit as an instrumental album, and that's unfortunate. Despite the lack of vocals it's a melodic creation that absolutely speaks through it's music. Much like BELL WITCH's "Mirror Reaper", it's instrumental music at it's absolute finest.