Black Sites is a very talented and original-sounding band from Chicago, blending really well traditional heavy metal with classic progressive metal, along with some heavier influences. They’ve released four full length albums so far with only guitarist and front man Mark Sugar remaining from the original line-up. The band was almost entirely revamped last year, with José Salazar (bass) and Lee Smith (guitars) sharing duties with their other band Professor Emeritus and the amazing Chris Black (Dawnbringer, High Spirits, Midnight Rider) also joining on drums. Chris has actually joined the band after the recording of the new album was completed, becuase drums have been played by Vladimir “Kebac” Ruzicic.
Their fifth, self-produced album For Eternity continues the musical path forged by Sugar throughout the previous releases, with a fantastic fusion of styles, while still sounding predominantly in the trad metal realm. When It Calls and Aquarius Betrayed show very well the progressive song structures and depth of Black Sites’ compositional touch, but at the same time the songs sound very accessible and catchy. The album was mixed and mastered by the legendary Dan Swanö at Unisound and the end result is amazing.
Giving Up The Ghost is built upon a groovy, heavy guitar riff, a bit more straightforward and rocking in attitude, then Blades (For The Chosen Ones) once again introduces a progressive, playful rhythm sequence, very engaging and rewarding with each listen, dipped in a moody, dark atmosphere. The press release doesn’t mention anything about this in particular, but a song like Silent Wars brings a bit of High Spirits in mind and I think it is quite possible that Chis Black has had a touch on these songs as well, having in mind he co-produced the album. The guitar solo is also amazing. When Prophecy Fails is the most up-tempo and energetic, uplifting song: classic heavy metal with a modern touch, finishing in a surprisingly epic, brooding instrumental climax.
The album closer Unanswered For Eternity is probably the most melancholic song of the bunch, finishing proceedings in a doomy, mellower mood and a beautiful sequence of guitar solos and harmonies, just pure class.
For Eternity is one more fantastic album by Black Sites, which once again leaves me amazed from the fact such a talented band is still not signed by a big label. Check this out if you are tired of carbon copies of your favorite bands and seek for something fresh, unique, inspired and original.
9/10
For Eternity is out on July 17th and can be ordered from HERE
No comments! Be the first commenter?