ARCHED FIRE – Trust Betrayal

Somewhere between 1989 and 1990, a bunch of youngsters got together in Finnish Lapland to form a Metal band called Arched Fire. The band went on a long hiatus, used their time away from the spotlight to work on their craft, and thirty years later, they released their debut studio album titled Remote Control in 2021. Two years later, they are back with their second studio album titled Trust Betrayal. The album will be released through WormHoleDeath Records on April 7, 2023.

Not a One-And-Done Album

Arched Fire’s sound is Thrash Metal/Speed Metal with Punk Rock vocals. It’s like The Sex Pistol and Megadeth blended together. The lyrics have a sense of rebellion and tackle serious issues in modern society. “Pestilence” refers to a spreading illness, much like the COVID-19 pandemic; while “Blind Faith” focuses on the dark sides of religion. As for the playing, the guitar riffs are fresh and tasteful, and the pulsing drum work keeps listeners on their toes. Highlights include “Oblivion,” which has a moody guitar intro and a thumping bass line; and “Artificial Sun,” which is the big and epic album closer.

There are plenty of things to like about Trust Betrayal; the vocals aren’t one of those things. Well, it depends on the individual. Kristian Herkman’s vocals are an acquired taste. There are screams, there are screeches; and there are straight-forward, non-melodic vocals. The lack of melody can be off-putting at times, which is a shame considering the important themes covered on the album. Trust Betrayal will take a few listens to digest everything that’s going on.

Final Assessment

Overall, the album is a decent follow-up to Remote Control. The songwriting, musicianship, production, and passion for the music are all praiseworthy. After everything they’ve been through, Arched Fire proved that there’s still some gas left in the tank. Plus, like the saying goes, there’s always room for improvement.

Album Tracklist

1. Fear
2. Pestilence (featuring Tim “Ripper” Owens)
3. Narcissist
4. Blind Faith
5. Oblivion
6. Corporeal Abhorrence of Entrails
7. Self-Backstabbers
8. Mastermind
9. Wings of Chrome
10. Artificial Sun

Band Lineup

Kristian Herkman – lead vocals
Aslak Purojärvi – drums
Mika Rytilahti – bass guitar
Janne Särkelä – lead and rhythm guitars
Ari Väntänen – rhythm guitar