EP Review: Lords of Ruin- Coda Revival

Words by Anselm Anderson

The second EP review of the week is a look at the upcoming four-tracker, Coda Revival by rising British hard rock starlets Lords of Ruin set for release this Friday, November 24th. The band combines alternative metal with contemporary rock to satisfy the cravings of enthusiastic rock fans. Lords Of Ruin reminds me of a younger version of Avenged Sevenfold and a heavier alternative to Shinedown with their powerful and captivating lyrics, sharp riffs, and blistering drumming. The band explores a variety of styles on the four songs that are available here.

Lords of Ruin were conceived in Northern England seven years ago, but it wasn't until 2019 that they released their first single. The band consists of "Lords" with vocalist Lord Dox, Lord Stev-O on drums, bassist Lord Liam and guitarists Lords Kev and Stones. They first gained notoriety with an appearance at the Hard Rock Hell Festival before the turgid pandemic struck Britain, Thankfully. The Lords returned with last year's debut EP Ruin Within, which allowed them to perform at large festivals.

Photo courtesy of Darren Birch

The band states that "Coda Revival" is a sequel to that release and marks the end of the beginning for them with high hopes for their future. Coda Revival is a short but sweet affair with the thick and thunderous riffs of "Decay" signalling a statement of intent for the band. Each kick of the drum resonates with grooves that encourage the listener to release their inhibitions. Lead singer Dox is a commendable presence with soft vocals that stretch over the raging riffs. "Bulldozer" features intricate phrasing and sharp riffs, with vocals leaning towards commercial appeal. 

As previously mentioned, Lords Of Ruin go from edgy alt-metal to a melodious mainstream rock style that is a testament to the lead vocalist's range.  I feel the band are best suited to writing metal tracks because of the intensity and smoothness of their songwriting and instrumentation. "Universal" is an example with a strong focus on strong vocal melodies and a catchy chorus juxtaposed with anguished harsh vocals underlining my point in case. It allows for big riffs and a sense the band can "breathe" and examine their true creative freedom. 

The basslines add a new dynamic to the metal stylings, while the addition of two guitarists creates a darker existence to their sound. This comes full circle on the song "Broken Dreams" by Lords Of Ruin is a great example of their style. It's a mixture of modern metal with emotional screams that give you a taste of what's coming next. In general, Lords Of Ruin create captivating tracks with a unique edge and consistency, which will certainly attract rock fans who are looking for something new and fresh.

Rating: 3.5/5

Follow this link here to keep updated with all the latest interviews, and reviews from The Rockstar Reviewer

Click below to listen to 'Broken Dreams' 

 

 Lords Of Ruin are


Lord Dox – Vocals;

 

Lord Steve-O – Drums; 

Lord Liam – Bass;

 Lord Stones – Guitar;

 Lord Kev – Guitar.