ASHES OF ARES – New Messiahs

Ashes of Ares was formed in 2012 by former Iced Earth members Matt Barlow (vocals) and Freddie Vidales (guitars) along with Nevermore drummer Van Williams. Through the years they’ve released a small handful of albums from 2013 through 2022. Williams has since left the band, but the combination of Barlow-Vidales lives on via their 4th studio album entitled New Messiahs.

If you’re familiar with Iced Earth, then you know they are a quality USA-based Power Metal Band that is highly venerated and respected in many Metal circles. Similar elements between Barlow-era Iced Earth and Ashes Of Ares can be found across the board, especially in vocal presentation, so if you’re a fan of Iced Earth’s musical approach, then you’re probably going to be a fan of this New Messiahs release. There’s plenty of fast-paced double bass drum work, skillfully played riffs, driving rhythms, and Barlow’s thick, discernable voice.

With 12 tracks on offer, New Messiahs definitely gives you your money’s worth (even a cover of Elton John’s “And The House Fell Down”). The main knock on this album is also its strength … that being its similarity to Iced Earth. And with that similarity is the dominance of Barlow’s vocals and his overuse of carrying certain notes. Barlow is a unique vocal talent to be sure, but he tends to drown out some of the best musical passage with his extended weeping bellowing … as the album progresses, that attribute gets weary and at times annoying.

That said, there is plenty here to reel in Power Metal fans and disciples of Iced Earth alike. New Messiahs may just not have the requisite staying power you might be looking for after a few spins.

Tracklist

1. Novus Ordo
2. New Messiahs
3. Two Graves
4. Where You Go
5. Wake Of Vultures
6. Infection Deception
7. Atrophy
8. Keep On Walkin’
9. The Hawk And The Dove
10. Lust To Feed
11. From Hell He Rides
12. And The House Fell Down (Elton John cover)

Lineup

Matt Barlow – Vocals
Freddie Vidales – Guitars, bass
Kyle Taylor – Drums (guest)