Iron Thrones - Visions Of Light

Sooner than I anticipated, I have my hands on Iron Thrones debut album 'Visions Of Light'. If you remember back to my writings a few day ago, Iron Thrones is a group of musicians from Minneapolis who used to perform as Everest. As Everest, the band released an EP in 2006 called "Where Earth Meets The Sky" on Mascaret Records, but since has been silent. 'Visions Of Light' is the band's debut full-length record, and it is quite a listen.

Iron Thrones sound has evolved quite a bit from their days as Everest. While Everest's material was definitely in the vein of metalcore, although with progressive bits, Iron Thrones has really clearly pulled away from those metalcore roots. There are bits and pieces of music that harken back to that kind of sound, but the music that you will find on 'Visions Of Light' is far away from what someone could consider metalcore.

'Visions Of Light' is an epic, almost orchestral sounding record. Steering away from the breakdown heavy, arpeggio crazed sound that has gripped so many bands of this nature lately, Iron Thrones have crafted an album of smooth flowing, beautiful, melodic riffs that paint distinct pictures and moods with their sound. From the opening notes of 'Swell to the Surface' until the last guitar rings out in 'Shadows Revealed', 'Visions' is a dynamic record that few bands can match.

Between all of the beautiful riffs, there are a sprinkling of elegantly composed guitar solos that don't feel forced, but natural; Bass guitar that is not afraid to become a part of the music; drums as strong as any record's could be, and the powerful vocals of Adam Clemens (Ex - Veil Of Maya), which remind me strongly of Between The Buried and Me, while maintaining the same feel that Evan Nagan (the former vocalist of Everest) brought to this group.

Simply put, 'Visions of Light' is one of the best albums that 2008 has to offer, and as a debut full-length for a band, it is phenomenal. If you are a fan of the progressive stylings of bands like Between The Buried and Me or Opeth, there is a strong chance that you will like this album, but really, if you like metal in any of it's forms, you should at least check this band and album out. This record will be self-released 11/21 and I strongly suggest you do what you can to get a hold of it, and support this band.

Iron Thrones on MySpace