REVIEW: MARQUIS DE SADE - Chapter II

 

MARQUIS DE SADE - Chapter II

Golden Core Records

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Marquis de Sade, originally renowned for an 18th-century French writer's unconventional pursuits, now lends its name to a band of British musicians. Within the circles of NWOBHM enthusiasts, this band commands admiration. Despite not flooding the scene with an abundance of tracks, their musical output stands out for its rare combination of quality and elusiveness.

While they tag this release as the second chapter, it essentially marks their debut - a remarkable feat 42 years after their inaugural demo in 1981. These gentlemen have elevated their craft, proving the timeless adage that quality surpasses punctuality.

In an age of incessant releases, Marquis de Sade distinguishes itself by emphasizing quality over quantity.

Their latest album is a masterpiece, effortlessly blending progressive elements and diverse influences. It not only captivates from the opening note to the final crescendo but also astounds with its seamless fusion of genres, all while preserving its classic heavy metal essence.

Diving into the compositions, the opening track, "Belvedere," radiates a carefree hard rock spirit. "Now I Lay Me Down" echoes hints of Running Wild's "Port Royal" and the rebellious vigor of Saxon. "Fortress of Solitude" evokes emotional depth reminiscent of Savatage (at least, in my interpretation). Notable is "The Moon's Glow," a captivating piece melding classic heavy metal with a pronounced 70s keyboard (Hammond) flair and sporadic forays into black metal vocals.

The musical journey could extend indefinitely, but the primary goal is to offer a glimpse, encouraging you to immerse yourself and draw your conclusions. Therefore, I conclude here.

Summarizing this presentation, Marquis de Sade's ability to maintain their unwavering NWOBHM character across decades and seamlessly adapt it to the contemporary era is commendable. The musicians' passion for this distinctive sound resonates magically, a testament to the wealth of experience accumulated. In essence, their latest release is not just substantial and high-quality but an exquisite masterpiece that captures your heart from the initial listen. Each subsequent play unveils new intricacies within the compositions. For NWOBHM enthusiasts, this album undeniably merits a distinguished spot in your collection.

Παραστατίδης Νικόλαος