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Portuguese heavy metal stalwarts Ravensire strike again with their third full-length album, A Stone Engraved in Red, delivering a robust and heartfelt continuation of their signature epic metal sound. Recorded at Studio 13 in Lisbon with long-time collaborator Paulo 'Paulão' Vieira, the album builds on the solid foundation of 2016's The Cycle Never Ends, introducing some exciting new elements thanks to the contributions of recent recruits Mario on guitar and Alex on drums.
True to form, Ravensire masterfully weave tales of heroism and history through their music, combining gritty mid-paced riffing with raw, emotive storytelling. Founding guitarist Nuno describes this release as both a tribute to their roots and a step forward: "This album captures everything that makes Ravensire who we are, but with a bit more exploration in themes and song dynamics. Some of the tracks push our boundaries with longer compositions and shifts in mood, all while staying true to our sound."
The album's standout track, "After the Battle," is a poignant tribute to the late Mark Shelton of Manilla Road. Divided into distinct movements, it journeys from thunderous battle riffs to a stirring acoustic interlude featuring James Beattie of Terminus. This emotional shift between Rick Thor's gruff, commanding vocals and Beattie's reflective tones creates a dynamic and deeply affecting narrative, cementing the song as one of the band's most powerful efforts to date. Another highlight is "Dawning in Darkness," dedicated to Hartmuth 'Barbarian Wrath' Schindler, further showcasing the band's deep reverence for the metal community.
Melody takes a more prominent role in this album, lending A Stone Engraved in Red an added layer of complexity without sacrificing the raw edge that defines Ravensire's sound. Fans of Omen and Slough Feg will find much to admire here, from the rhythmic bounce of the riffs to Rick Thor's unmistakable vocal grit.
Visually, the album art retains Ravensire's signature black-and-white aesthetic with a twist, reflecting the timeless and enduring themes of the music. As Nuno puts it, the title itself is a declaration: "Our goal is to create something rock solid, something that will stand as a monument for years to come."
With A Stone Engraved in Red, Ravensire have delivered an album that is both a worthy successor to their past works and an exciting glimpse into their future. It’s a triumphant testament to their passion for heavy metal and their unwavering commitment to storytelling. Fans new and old alike will find plenty to savor in this thrilling chapter of Ravensire's journey.
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