Phantom Spell - Immortal's Requiem - guest review
Phantom Spell - Immortal's Requiem - guest review
Tracklist
01. Immortal's Requiem02. Dawn Of Mind
03. Seven Sided Mirror
04. Up The Tower
05. Black Spire Curse
06. Blood Becomes Sand
07. Moonchild [Rory Gallagher cover][bonus]
08. Keep On Running [alternative version][bonus]
Guest review by
Blackcrowe October 15, 2024
In this album, McNeill pays tribute to bands like Styx, Blue Öyster Cult, and the first three records from Genesis. The songs are complex, showing clear influence from those classic bands. The title track features strong guitar riffs, atmospheric synths, and changing rhythms; however, it avoids sounding retro due to the metal elements that give it a powerful edge.
One of the album’s best qualities is its attention to detail. Each song is carefully layered with instruments that reward close listening. The guitars, which switch between soft acoustic parts and big, soaring solos, are at the heart of the album. McNeill’s guitar work is impressive, but it never takes over the music. Tracks like “Dawn Of The Mind” and “Lucid Dream” show how well he balances complex music with emotion.
The production also deserves a mention. It has a warm, vintage sound, but stays clear and sharp during the heavier, more metallic parts. The mix allows each instrument to be heard clearly, letting the rich layers of sound come through.
While Immortal's Requiem takes inspiration from the past, it doesn’t feel like a copy. Phantom Spell brings enough originality and passion to make the album stand out. McNeill blends progressive rock and metal smoothly, making this debut a great listen for fans of both genres.
Rating breakdown
| Performance: | 7 |
| Songwriting: | 6 |
| Originality: | 4 |
| Production: | 8 |
Written by Blackcrowe | October 15, 2024
Guest review disclaimer:
This is a guest review, which means it does not necessarily represent the point of view of the MS Staff.
This is a guest review, which means it does not necessarily represent the point of view of the MS Staff.
Comments
Comments:
2
Visited by
12 users
|
Posts: 5642  |
Posts: 5642
4 for originality seems harsh to me, this artist pays homage to 70s rock and prog, but the music still feels inspired, it's well performed, the vocals are really good. I would recommend this album to anyone that likes classic rock and traditional heavy metal.
---- I thought the two primary purposes for the internet were cat memes and overreactions.
Loading...
|
 Posts: 610 |
Posts: 610 Written by John_Doe on 10.01.2025 at 17:19 Yeah I made a mistake on this one, I have to correct , it is great music on it at least and 8
---- Invisible To telescopic eye, Infinity. The star that would not die. Slayer vs. Slayer: 1,000 MPH or Death
Loading...
|
Hits total: 673 | This month: 11