LORD VIGO - We Shall Overcome
High Roller Records
Alright, let's take a more down-to-earth look at Lord Vigo's "We
Shall Overcome." This isn't just another metal album; it's a deep dive
into a world that feels strangely familiar, even if it's set far away in a
conceptual universe.
At its heart, "We Shall Overcome" is the second part of a
story Lord Vigo started with "Danse de Noir" in 2020. But here's
where it gets really interesting: it's also a direct follow-up to Rush's
legendary "2112." Imagine stepping into that world 25 years later,
after humanity thought they'd won, only to find themselves grappling with new
problems like a messed-up environment and political chaos. It’s a classic tale
of winning a battle but then facing an even bigger war.
What really strikes me is how this album, despite its fantastical story,
feels so connected to what we've all been through recently. Think about the
pandemic years: the lockdowns, the mandates, the constant debate about personal
freedom versus collective safety. Lord Vigo captures that feeling of a
"forced unification," where individual rights might be pushed aside
for what's perceived as the greater good. The track "A New Dark Age"
isn't just a cool song title; it's a reflection of the widespread fear and
uncertainty many of us felt. The idea that we could be entering a period where
progress regresses, freedoms shrink, and technology becomes a tool for control
– it hits close to home. Even after overcoming one crisis, new forms of
oppression can emerge, a truth the pandemic definitely highlighted for many.
It's a reminder that artists often draw from the world around them, even when
creating elaborate fictional narratives.
Now, let's talk about the music itself.
While many would simply label Lord Vigo as "Epic Doom Metal," that
really doesn't tell the whole story. This album stretches way beyond that. You
can clearly hear strong progressive
metal elements. The songs aren't just simple verse-chorus
affairs; they're complex journeys with shifting tempos and multiple sections,
much like a good progressive rock album. The way they use keyboards isn't just
for background; it builds atmosphere, sometimes futuristic, sometimes almost
gothic, making the sound feel much deeper.
In fact, listening to it, I often found
myself thinking of Queensrÿche's
"Operation: Mindcrime." Both albums are built around
powerful, dystopian stories. Vinz Clortho's distinct, high-pitched vocals,
while unique, have a dramatic flair that reminds me of how Geoff Tate delivered
the narrative in "Mindcrime." Both bands create a tangible mood,
whether it's the political intrigue of Queensrÿche or Lord Vigo's bleak, epic
vision. They both push the boundaries of what heavy metal can be, weaving in
intricate arrangements and deeper themes.
But don't think for a second they've
abandoned the classics. There are plenty of moments that are pure,
unadulterated traditional
heavy metal. You'll find those catchy, headbanging riffs and
melodic lines that feel straight out of an Iron Maiden or Manowar album. Many
songs maintain a solid, driving pace, steering clear of the super slow,
crushing doom that sometimes defines the genre. And the guitar solos? They're
impactful and melodic, serving the song perfectly rather than just being
technical show-offs.
So, when you really dig into "We
Shall Overcome," you realize it's a fascinating blend. It's got the heavy
atmosphere of Epic Doom
Metal, the ambitious songwriting of Progressive Metal,
the raw power of Traditional
Heavy Metal, and even some of those cool, atmospheric vibes
from '80s new wave and gothic rock
that we talked about. This seamless mix is what makes "We Shall
Overcome" so compelling and why it stands out. It's truly a testament to a
band that isn't afraid to forge its own path and create something genuinely
original.
Nick Parastatidis
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