Album Review: Spirit Adrift - Enlightened In Eternity
Reviewed by Jon Wigg
Taking inspiration from many metal and rock luminaries from times past, and producing something that still sounds fresh, is something that many have attempted to varying degrees over the years. Fortunately for all of us, two man traditional metallers, Spirit Adrift have hit a perfect note here with their latest album, 'Enlightened In Eternity'.
Previous releases were more grounded in the doom arena and this is still present here in many of the tracks, but the tempo across the piece is faster and drives the listener’s enjoyment. Examples of this are the first two tracks out of the eight available. Opener ‘Ride into the Light’ starts with a very 80’s feel before the modern bass and chugging guitar sound kicks off and is a fine introduction. ‘Astral Levitation’ harks back the darker doom days with a very Sabbath-esque riff before a softer mid-section and then breaking into some excellent Maiden/Priest guitar duelling.
The album continues with the excellent mid-paced stomper ‘Cosmic Conquest’ and then ‘Screaming From Beyond’ takes us down a slower, more melancholy rabbit hole. ‘Harmony of the Spheres’ ramps up the energy and speed - this one is definitely one to get the fists pumping live. ‘Battle High’ swings along nicely as does ‘Stronger Than Your Pain’ which has more drive and urgency than its predecessor.
The closer is the superb ‘Reunited in the Void’ which again re-ignites the doom and ups the reverb. The vocals are excellent throughout the album and have a real ethereal feel to them here. A really well constructed track with sections varying in tempo and style that take the listener on a journey. The second half of the track is instrumental and really shows off the range and skill of both members of ‘Spirit Adrift’, starting with an atmospheric, slow section, building to a faster, guitar lick filled ending.
The band is composed of Marcus Bryant on drums and Nate Garrett on all other parts. Garrett’s vocals really shine across the piece, displaying range, ability and soul. The drum tracks throughout really drive when required and complement at all other times.
Overall, Spirit Adrift have produced an excellent, skilled, traditional heavy metal album for 2020, rooted in the past but definitely with a modern feel.
ICYMI - We caught up with Nate from Spirit Adrift a few weeks ago.
You can read the interview here.
