With Other World, their second full-length album, Ancient Empire firmly establishes itself as a torchbearer for traditional U.S. power metal. Hailing from Northern California, the band features the formidable talents of vocalist and multi-instrumentalist Joe Liszt (Shadowkiller, Rocka Rollas, Hellhound), joined by veteran brothers Rich and Steve Pelletier, whose collective resume spans cult acts like Forgotten Disciple, Hellhound, and Rapid Fire. Together, they forge a sound that is as precise as it is passionate, weaving a sci-fi narrative into the very fabric of their high-energy metal assault.
The album unfolds like a cinematic saga—an urgent tale of humanity’s survival in the face of an extraterrestrial invasion. From the opening blast of “Fight Another Day,” Ancient Empire wastes no time locking the listener in for the ride. Liszt’s commanding vocals soar with clarity and conviction, delivering Rich Pelletier’s thought-provoking lyrics with dramatic weight, while Steve's drumming adds punch and propulsion to every track. The band’s chemistry is palpable; each riff, solo, and fill feels tightly executed yet full of life.
Musically, Other World is a masterclass in no-frills, melody-driven heavy metal. The riffs are sharp, the solos tasteful, and the choruses anthemic without slipping into cliché. Tracks like “Embrace the Horror” and the title track “Other World” showcase the band’s ability to blend narrative tension with muscular hooks. The title cut, in particular, stands out—its opening riff and soaring melodies conjure images of cosmic battles and desperate resistance, making it one of the album’s emotional and musical high points.
What truly sets Other World apart is its thematic cohesion. Rather than a random collection of tracks, the album feels like a unified journey—each song contributing a chapter to the larger arc of planetary upheaval and human resilience. The lyrics are smart and cinematic, full of vivid imagery that science fiction fans will appreciate. At the same time, the music never loses its footing in the classic metal tradition: fists raised, guitars blazing, and heads banging.
Ancient Empire proves that powerful songwriting and passionate execution still matter. While their influences are clear—Judas Priest, Metal Church, Omen—the band brings enough of its own identity to make Other World feel fresh. This is not just an homage; it's a continuation of a proud legacy in American heavy metal.
For fans of traditional power metal with strong conceptual themes, Other World is a standout release—epic, urgent, and endlessly replayable. Whether you're drawn in by the sci-fi concept, the top-tier musicianship, or the sheer energy of the songs, Ancient Empire delivers on all fronts.
