The Convergence of Metal and Literature: Burning Shadows and Assassin's Blade

 

In the realm of heavy metal, concept albums often serve as a canvas for storytelling, blending powerful music with intricate narratives. Two bands, Burning Shadows from the United States and Assassin's Blade, a Canadian/Swedish collaboration, have both drawn inspiration from Fritz Leiber's classic science fiction novel, “Gather, Darkness!”, creating albums that explore its themes and storylines.

Burning Shadows: Power and Heavy Metal from the US

Burning Shadows, hailing from Savage, Maryland, has been a staple in the power and heavy metal scene since their formation in 2000. Known for their thematic focus on fantasy, history, and mythology, the band has a discography that includes albums like “Truth in Legend” and “Into the Primordial”. Their concept album “Gather, Darkness!” delves into the dystopian world created by Leiber, using their signature blend of melodic and aggressive metal to bring the story to life.

Assassin's Blade: A Fusion of Canadian and Swedish Metal

Assassin's Blade, formed in 2014, is a heavy/speed metal band that combines the talents of musicians from Canada and Sweden. Their album “Gather, Darkness”, released in 2019, showcases a hybrid sound influenced by bands like Exciter and Judas Priest. The album's tracks traverse various metal subgenres, from thrash to power metal, all while maintaining a cohesive narrative inspired by Leiber's novel.

Fritz Leiber's “Gather, Darkness!”

Published in 1943, “Gather, Darkness!” is a seminal work of science fiction that explores themes of power, rebellion, and the clash between science and superstition. Set 360 years after a nuclear holocaust, the novel depicts a world where techno-priests wield scientific knowledge as a means of control, masquerading it as divine power¹⁹. The protagonist, Armon Jarles, rises from peasant origins to become a priest, only to rebel against the corrupt theocracy. His journey intertwines with a burgeoning witchcraft movement, leading to a dramatic confrontation that questions the very foundations of their society.

The Intersection of Music and Literature

Both Burning Shadows and Assassin's Blade have successfully translated the complex narrative of “Gather, Darkness!” into their music, each bringing their unique style and interpretation to the story. Through their albums, they invite listeners to explore Leiber's dystopian world, experiencing the tension and drama through the lens of heavy metal.

These concept albums not only pay homage to a literary classic but also demonstrate the enduring power of storytelling in music. By drawing from “Gather, Darkness!”, both bands have created works that resonate with fans of both metal and science fiction, bridging the gap between two vibrant artistic communities.

Nick Parastatidis