DARKLON is from Athens, Greece and they have been hard at work making a name for themselves on the heavy metal scene since 2017. Their debut record was released in 2019 and they have since been seen at festivals such as Battle in Greece (Greece), Riddle of Steel (Germany), and Open the Gates (Cyprus). Underground metal fans have taken notice and support for the band has grown into a strong following.
With their new album “The Redeemer” (release date: 5-19-2023), the band expands on the foundation they’ve built and leans in to paying respect to influences such as SAVATAGE, OMEN, and JAG PANZER. These heavy and power metal influences come together in a forceful epic metal vibe that is unique to DARKLON. On the record, the lyrics are influenced by a variety of themes including stories from mythology and the movie “Mad Max: Fury Road”.
Here is more about the band and the record:
DARKLON Line-Up
Nikos Migus A. – Vocals
D.K. Kras – Lead Guitar
Savvas G. – Bass Guitar
Sevan Barsamian – Drums
Photo Credit: Elena Vasilaki
Production Details
Produced, mixed and mastered by George Dovolos & DARKLON at Esoteron Studios, Athens, Greece.
All vocals were recorded at Dark Water Studios by Stathis Pavlantis.
The cover art was created by Michael Syrigos.
Distribution
The Orchard (Germany, Switzerland, Austria, USA, Canada, Japan)
SoundWorks/Season of Mist (France)
Sound Pollution (Sweden)
Plastic Head (UK and rest of Europe)
Track List
1. The Redeemer
2. Rancor And Agony
3. I Am Death
4. Lamashtu’s Claws
5. Iron Glory
6. The Bloodstone
7. The Downfall
8. Way Back Home
DARKLON aren’t messing around for their second effort “The Redeemer”. They smash through any notion of a sophomore slump and have produced a masterful offering in this record. Overall, the production quality and mix of the record is excellent. There are little atmospheric touches that add to the stature of the record.
Through the 8 tracks, there is a tight grouping of fast faced, up tempo songs that will get your heart pumping and mind racing. They show their range and flexibility on several tracks where things turn to a slower tempo. It’s obvious that there was a deliberate effort to refine the music and lyrics. At the same time, they have managed to keep the ragged edge that is what makes this type of music special. It’s a great balancing act. There is little to pick on in terms of opportunities or changes.
Kudos to the band for this album. It’s destined to become a mainstay among fans and will grow their reputation on the NWOTHM scene. Well earned!
The opening track is “The Redeemer” and it’s a classic epic metal journey. There is a direct nod to the Mad Max: Fury Road movie in the lyrics. The vocals, riffs, and backbeat come together nicely. This song should be a crowd pleaser during live performances.
Next up is “Rancor and Agony”, and this one is a standout song. It’s a hard-driving tune that oozes power metal glory. The solo here flies high and is an instant classic.
“I am Death” is another power metal call to battle and glory. This is classic metal goodness.
For “Lamashtu’s Claws” is a feast of power chords and soaring vocals. Another great one. The vocalist really shines on this song.
On “Iron Glory” things continue down the path of epic-metal call-to-battle goodness. There is a white-hot guitar solo in this song that stands out.
For “The Bloodstone” the band gets melodic and epic. It’s epic heavy metal storytelling at its finest. This one will likely be a great crowd pleaser during their live set.
When it comes to “The Downfall” the band gets lower and slower. The bass line shines throughout this song. The vocalist growls his way through the lyrics.
The album wraps up with “Way Back Home” and it’s a tour-de-force. Soaring guitar riffs, thundering bass lines, and powerful vocals that come together in an expertly weaved together package.
This is a solid second effort for DARKLON. It’s easy to press play and let this album run in full, because it’s just that good. There’s depth, range, and refinement here. Are there some rough edges? Yes, absolutely, but they do not take away from the record at all. In fact, some of the rough edges are what make this record great. It’s a sign of authenticity.
Well done, DARKLON. Now get on the road and put this one in front of the crowds. The band has done very well with this offering and this band is worthy of support. Dig in and check them out!
THENWOTHM SCORE: 9/10
To learn more, please visit the following:
https://www.facebook.com/NoRemorseRecordsGreece
The Nwothm 
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