There’s something undeniably magnetic about an album like Guardians of Time, the latest effort from Empires Of Eden. This isn’t just another all-star metal collaboration. It’s a multifaceted beast, a bold venture that marries a diverse collection of talent with guitarist Stu Marshall’s unparalleled songwriting and guitar work to create a sonic landscape that’s as vast as it is cohesive.
The album kicks off with The Dawn March, an atmospheric, cinematic intro that sets the stage for the heavy artillery to come. Then comes the title track, with Rob Rock delivering an ageless performance over John Gallagher’s rumbling basslines. Gallagher, best known for his work with Raven, gives this track a weighty, grounded feel, providing a perfect counterbalance to Marshall’s fluid soloing. Rock, as expected, delivers the goods with his commanding vocal presence, making the title track an early highlight.
Darren Smith of Harem Scarem fame switches things up on When Will It End, a track with a more hard rock twist compared to the power metal storm of the opener. Smith’s Bonnet-era Rainbow vibes offer a refreshing contrast, and the big chorus is sure to get stuck in your head.
Mortal Rites introduces Jonas Heidgert (Dragonland), whose powerful, crystal-clear vocals elevate the track’s journey into thrash territory. Marshall’s riffing here is reminiscent of Slayer at their most furious, but with enough melodic sensibility to keep things interesting. The transition into The Inner Me is almost jarring in its contrast. David Readman (Voodoo Circle) steps into the spotlight, delivering an epic piece of late-eighties pomp metal that’s as indulgent as it is irresistible. Marshall’s outro solo on this one is a pure joy—one could only wish for an entire album of songs in this vein. Maybe a future project?
Marshall’s Death Dealer bandmate Sean Peck brings the fire on When the Beast Comes Out, a track that screams pure US power metal overkill. Peck’s blistering vocal performance is nothing short of relentless, and this track would feel right at home on a Death Dealer record, with Marshall’s aggressive playing driving the track forward.
Then, as expected from a Marshall project, we get the obligatory guitar instrumental in the shape of Arabian Nights, which showcases his melodic lead guitar tone. There’s a touch of George Lynch in his playing here (to my untutored ears, at least), all smooth and tasteful while remaining technically impressive.
Things cool down slightly with Stand United, featuring Tony Webster on vocals. While Webster’s performance is solid, it lacks the personality to elevate the track to the heights of the rest of the album. Not a bad song by any means, but it doesn’t quite match the ferocity or creativity of its counterparts.
Louie Georgievski (Night Legion) takes charge on August Runs Red and Baptise This Hell, delivering powerhouse performances that solidify his reputation as one of Australia’s finest metal vocalists. Particularly on Baptise This Hell, where the formidable Genevieve Rodda of Temtris joins in, the chorus is an absolute stunner—arguably one of the best moments on the entire album. The collaboration between these two vocalists is electric, a masterclass in how to craft memorable melodic power metal.
Finally, The Devil’s Only Friend brings the album to a close, with Jeff Martin (ex-Racer X) delivering a Dio-era Sabbath vibe. While Tony Martin might have been an obvious choice for this particular style, Jeff Martin holds his own admirably, and Marshall once again pulls out all the stops with some stellar guitar work.
Overall, Guardians of Time is a masterclass in collaborative heavy metal. While albums featuring such a varied array of vocalists can often feel disjointed, Marshall’s expert songwriting and musicianship hold everything together, creating a cohesive and, at times, awe-inspiring album. There’s a lot to digest here, but each track offers something fresh, and Guardians of Time stands as one of the most enjoyable and ambitious releases I’ve heard in a long time.
Guardians of Time releases on November 15th.
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