Lost Empires
Death: The Unveiling of Eternity EP
(Self-Release)
Lost Empires’ newest EP is an odd thing, but that’s a good thing. The Oklahoma-based group play a type of throwback heavy metal that is basically what you would get if you took a New Wave of American Heavy Metal (think Unearth, Darkest Hour, or Lamb of God) and turned the levels way down in the breakdown department and more old-school vocals. Their sound is basically Iron Maiden for a modern audience (which is basically what melodeath and NWOAHM were), and while there are some breakdowns, the chugs are less important than the soaring guitar melodies. The lyrics are all uplifting and vaguely spiritual (religious references abound), aside from the oddly chosen “Monday Night Football.” Much like the original wave of British heavy metal, Lost Empires clearly wants to offer something a bit deeper than the standard fare, and they do a good job of keeping things entertaining throughout. The biggest problem is that vocalist Lawrence’s clean voice, while powerful, doesn’t quite work for the style. The rest of the album is very clean and clear, and his vocals are a tad raw. Otherwise, you have a fun, quick little EP of throwback heavy metal goodness.
