Album Review: Immortal Guardian - Unite And Conquer
Reviewed by Lana Teramae
Immortal Guardian continue to evolve and update their sound with every passing release, and their third full-length album, ‘Unite and Conquer,’ is no different. Inventing the term, “Super Metal,” their sound combines different styles of metal (progressive metal, symphonic metal, traditional heavy metal, and power metal) into one. Think infectious melodies, memorable hooks, blazing riffs, dramatic flare, and a vocalist that resembles Ronnie James Dio, Todd La Torre, and Bruce Dickinson. ‘Unite and Conquer’ was already released in the states on October 27 through M-Theory Audio, but it will officially be released in Europe on December 1, 2023 through Massacre Records. The lineup that plays on the album includes Carlos Zema on lead vocals, Gabriel Guardian on guitars, keyboards, and backing vocals; Joshua Lopez on bass guitar, and Justin Piedimonte on drums.
“For generations, humanity has longed for a truth. The right to unite what has been divided. We long to be free from all our differences, genders, colors, nationalities, religions, beliefs, and any other type of separation. This real freedom relies on our minds, in being free from all these fears, repressions, oppressions, and everything else that stops us from being united. In the name of this truth, our voice will echo endlessly – Freedom! Immortal Guardian’s ‘Unite and Conquer,’ lyrically traverses a multifaceted emotional journey, from introspection and self-discovery that passionately calls for unity and change,” said Zema in a press release.
The album kicks off with the groove-laden and mid-tempo headbanger, “Ozona.” The next track, “Echoes,” is choked full of guitar melodies, topped with a wicked bass line. Primal Fear vocalist Ralf Scheepers lends his chops to the barnstormer, “Roots Run Deep,” which has one of the best solos on the whole album. “Perfect Person” makes listeners question the power of humanity. “Divided We Fall” leans into doom metal territory and draws influences from Black Sabbath, specifically the Dio era. Haunting and atmospheric, “Lost in the Darkness” features the majestic vocals of Vicky Psarakis from The Agonist. “Rise of the Phoenix” draws the album to an epic close.
‘Unite and Conquer’ brings self-awareness and realism to current issues in society. With a fresh and balanced production, mature songwriting, excellent musicianship, and passion for their craft, Immortal Guardian continues towards an uphill trajectory that’s not stopping anytime soon.
