The Raven Age release new album “Blood Omen”
Originally formed in 2009 in London by Dan Wright and George Harris, (son of Iron Maidens bass played Steve Harris. The current The Raven Age line up is Matt James (vocals) George Harris (guitar), Tommy Gentry (guitar), Matt Cox (bass) and Jai Patel (drums).
They’ve released two previous studio albums with 2017’s “Darkness Will Rise” and the excellent 2019 release “Conspiracy”. With over 75 million streams worldwide they have racked up a popular following in the UK metal scene based on their heavily live schedule over the years, having performed over 400 shows internationally across 38 countries alongside the likes of bands such as Killswitch Engage, Volbeat, Shinedown, Alter Bridge and of course, Iron Maiden.
It's been four long years since their last album, but finally this Friday (7 July 2023) the long await release of their third studio album “Blood Omen” is finally upon us. Working with renown producer Mika Jussila, who has also worked with the likes of Bullet for my Valentine, Slipknot and Machine Head. With the new album The Raven Age are breaking new ground, with this being the recording debut for guitarist Tommy Gentry, and brining in new elements such as some great string sections from cellist Audrey Riley, who has also worked with the likes of Muse, Coldplay and the Foos!
The album is available to order now from the band’s website HERE
And this new approach is evident right from the off, in the opening instrumental track Changing of the Guard which opens with a long drawn out synth/keys tone before the acoustic guitar brings in the hauntingly beautiful melody, joined by the strings. Really invokes the feel of ancient legends, akin to something from Darkher, Heilung or Wardruna. Cracking opening…..
Next up, we unleash the wrath of the metal gods with Parasite a power metal lovers dream, with fast and furious guitar riffs full of raw energy. The lyrics are blasted out and echo a sense of resistance with lines such as “I won’t let you in this time, I won’t let you in my mind, you’re a parasite”. I loved the ending, focusing back on just the guitars and they build from a low growl, raising the pace to a climatic drop off and dramatic end.
Perhaps with the Serpents Tongue their old school metal roots are more noticeable with a classic guitar intro before it blends into their signature melody influence. Again the vocal delivery is outstanding, and demonstrates a powerful range, and ability to deliver growling styles as well which gives the track depth and character.
The introduction to Essence of Time gave me goosebumps, and the first few musical lines reminded me of a pagan metal from the likes of Green Lung, before it shifts it up as the screaming guitar riffs once again kick in to full effect. The guitar work on the album is outstanding, loud and powerful, but crisp and bright, the way guitars should be.
I think my personal favourite album track has to be Nostradamus which just has something for everyone. Soft intro, raw growling vocals, fast harsh guitars and power metal. Parts of it reminded me of Disturbed particularly in the vocals, an anthem track ready made for live performances if ever there was one.
Forgive & Forget roars into life full of power and energy. A track about dealing with the words and actions of others close to you, the hurt and pain inflicted, but the need to focus on forgiveness. From this it’s into The Journey. Again, starting with the acoustic guitar underpinning some delightful and mellow vocals from Matt. The track builds into an almost 2000’s rock ballad kind of thing from the likes of Puddle of Mudd/Hoobastank, but retaining a strong metal vocal style that sets it apart for others. Very different and shows their flexibility and range as a band.
As the album comes to a close, we have War in Heaven a rousing and powerful track, with once again some stunning, and soaring guitar work.
“Blood Omen” is a fantastic album, and shows just how much The Raven Age have growth and developed. With the introduction of new elements such as the strings and piano, and a great mix of different metal styles, it does a great job of pulling this all together into a clear and confident package. And best of all, it’s the kind of material that will translate to a live show perfectly.
Very enjoyable, and well worth a 9/10 from LiveWire Music.
