The opening line of “Behold The Wicked Child” describes the emotion that Iced Earth fans felt when long departed singer Matt Barlow returned to the band.
“Rise up fervid zeal, salvation is at hand.”
It also sets the tone for the entire cd. This is part two of a two CD epic story of the Set Abominae, the Antichrist, sent to destroy mankind to avenge the destruction of his race when we came to earth 12,000 years ago. He lives on through the ages, killing Jesus and other world leaders fulfilling his prophecy as a savior to his race. However the longer he lives and sees mankind advance, the more he sees that we are not like the race of old and decides to spare and not to rule over mankind. He just sits back and watches, criticizing our moral shortcomings.
The songs range from fast paced power metal songs to powerful ballads that move you with their intensity. The guitar work is great, staying true that Iced Earth guitar tone that I have been hearing for 16 years. Jon Schaffer is one of the greatest riff writers when it comes to heavy metal. He writes amazing song lyrics that that flow great with his riffs.
However the true power that goes with his music is Matt Barlow’s vocal contribution. They are powerful, like a lion roaring across the plain in all of his songs. His voice ranges from a deep low voice to a high wail that shows you his amazing vocal skills.
The tracks on here are all great, yet there are some that just stand out in your mind. “I Walk Alone” is one of the best tracks on the CD. The riff just sticks with you, and you’ll be humming it as you walk around. The chorus is one of the most powerful ones I have ever heard, and it will have you singing along loudly with your fist raised in the air.
The opening song leads you in with a Latin choir, only to kick you in the teeth with “Behold The Wicked Child” which is a fast paced song that will have you banging your head and singing along with Barlow during the chorus.
There are a few slow ballad songs such as “A Gift or A Curse,” which is a slow moving song questioning our fate in life and the burden given to us.
The other song which stands out the most in my mind is “Crucify The King,” a mid-pace song with another great riff and solo and blows us away with a powerful chorus in which Barlow wails how he will bring the suffering on mankind.
This CD is amazing from front to back, and I have given it many listens on repeat. I recommend this CD to anyone who is a fan of metal, or who loves a great story.
