REVIEW: EIDOLON - Apostles of Defiance

 

EIDOLON - Apostles of Defiance

Metal Blade Records

EIDOLON is one of those bands that metal fans can't help but respect for their incredible technical skills and unique sound. Hailing from Canada, these guys knew how to make an impression with their tight riffs and dynamic music.

Let's start with some fun trivia: Glen Drover and Andy LaRocque shared the stage in King Diamond and became good friends. Andy even did some guest lead work for EIDOLON, adding a special touch to their tracks. On top of that, Glen and his brother Shawn Drover joined the legendary Megadeth in late 2004, further boosting their metal cred.

The band had its ups and downs. They disbanded in 2007 but made a surprising comeback in 2015 to record a one-off single, "Leave This World Behind." This reunion was like a sweet gift for their fans who always appreciated their musicianship.

Musically, EIDOLON straddles the line between power and thrash metal, creating a sound that's aggressive and powerful yet filled with melody. Their style is clearly influenced by giants like MERCYFUL FATE/KING DIAMOND, SLAYER, and ANNIHILATOR. If you're into bands like NEVERMORE and ICED EARTH, you'll find some familiar vibes in EIDOLON's music, though they definitely have their own distinct flavor.

Now, let's talk about their album "Apostles Of Defiance." When it came out, it got mixed reviews. Some listeners found the songs a bit repetitive, and not everyone was a fan of Pat Mulock's Ozzy-like voice. While unique, his vocal style wasn't everyone's cup of tea for a power-thrash band. Many felt that a voice like Mat Barlow or Warrel Dane would have been a better fit. But, once you give it a couple of listens, Pat's voice can grow on you, adding a unique character to the band's sound.

Despite the critiques, the album is packed with power/thrash metal gems. Tracks like "Volcanic Earth," "Twisted Morality," and "Demoralized" are absolute bangers, showcasing the band's prowess in creating memorable and heavy riffs. Personally, I found "Apostles Of Defiance" to be a satisfying release with plenty of engaging moments that keep you hooked from start to finish.

In conclusion, EIDOLON's journey through the metal scene is marked by their technical excellence and distinctive sound. "Apostles Of Defiance" might have divided opinions, but it's a testament to the band's innovative spirit and musical capabilities. If you haven't checked it out yet, it's definitely worth a listen to appreciate what EIDOLON brought to the table.

Nick Parastatidis