Review: Wings of Steel- Winds of Time
Artwork courtesy of Spencer Caligiuri |
Words Written by Anselm Anderson
LA-based heavy metal band Wings of Steel released their sophomore album, Winds of Time, last week via independent distribution.
The powerful trio revitalises metal, reminiscent of the good old days, with their 1980s-influenced style. Their high-octane vocals, pounding drums, and sizzling guitar solos evoke memories of iconic bands like Dio, Saxon, and Judas Priest while making a bold statement of intent. This eight-track release showcases the band's growth as a rising force in the United States and Europe.
Wings of Steel was formed in 2019 in Los Angeles, USA. They released their self-titled debut EP three years later, followed by their first full-length album, titled Gates of Twilight, two years ago. Last year, the band released their first live album before embarking on their first European tour. They have performed at festivals such as The Whisky A Go Go and Up The Hammers. The trio features the impeccable, powerful vocals of Leo Unnermark, the intense and rapid guitar skills of Parker Halub and the timely, yet thunderous drumming skills of Damien Rainaud.
The Rockstar Reviewer is always eager to discover new and emerging artists, and Wings of Steel is one of them. From the galloping buildups in the opening track, "Winds of Time" offers listeners a treat. The songs build intensity with fast, ferocious riffs and powerful drumming, creating a vivid scene as Unnermark roars into action.. His soaring vocals leave a lasting impression, as he transitions between the dynamic, rich sound of a metal singer and the bluesy, intimate style of a rock singer, such as on tracks like "Crying" and "Burning Sands." The tracks explore themes such as war, religion, and politics, using vivid imagery and honest storytelling. The album opens with a ten-minute track, while shorter pieces such as the catchy rock song "Saints and Sinners" run for under three minutes. This variety in track length enhances the band’s polished production, making it easier for listeners to enjoy the experience.
Photo courtesy of RFL Entertainment |
The eerie, spine-chilling riffs of "Lights Go Out" evoke the style of Dio, while Unnermark's cascading vocals express deep sorrow and pain. The influences of "Holy Diver" are evident in "We Rise," as the band showcases their songwriting skills. The rich blend of mid-tempo melodic vocals combined with powerful, lung-busting singing over galloping rhythms will delight long-time fans of '70s and '80s metal. This is not meant to take credit away from the rest of the band. Guitarist Halub combines lengthy, wailing bluesy solos with aggressive riffs, showcasing a maturity beyond his years. Drummer Rainaud maintains a steady rhythm, skillfully incorporating intricate drum fills that contribute to the overall sound.
Overall, Wings of Steel takes metal down the path of metal with fiery tracks and emotional ballads. They remind listeners of a time when metal flourished in the golden years of the 70's and 80s.
SOCIAL MEDIA LINKS:
Website: ( https://wingsofsteelband.com/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@wingsofsteel
Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/0y43lCvntQtyFlhCABGb0T?si=saaZPUt4Qya7
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/wingsofsteelband/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/OfficialWingsofSteel
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Copyright: Anselm Anderson ©
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