BLAZON STONE
“HYMNS OF TRIUMPH AND DEATH”
Album Review by J.D. Tuggle

9/10

If you feel as if your playlist is lacking a certain swashbuckling element then look no further than “Hymns of Triumph and Death” by Blazon Stone. This Swedish power metal group has been around since 2008. Initially known as “Stortebeker” they changed their name to “Blazon Stone” in 2011. Their name is derived from an album written by the German power metal group “Running Wild”, “Blazon Stone” was their sixth studio album released in 1991.

“Hymns of Triumph and Death” takes off at full speed. The intro is not one to be skipped. It leads perfectly into “Heart of Stone” with fast paced, high octave galloping riffs that’s sure to energize. “Heart of Stone” speaks of a merciless king that executes those who have defied him. The chorus sets the standard for the rest of the album with powerful lyrics that are nearly impossible not to shout along with. 

The next highlight comes in the form of an “Iron Fist of Rock.” This is truly an anthem of rock and roll and heavy metal. It describes them as being more than just music, but rather a passion that breaks the laws of time and burns through generations. It assures us that there will always be another song, another record, another show, another band to carry on our passion. 

The next track is called “Hellbound for the Ocean.” It captures the essence of “running wild and free” perfectly. The lyrics even include an homage to the band in which their name comes from, “Running Wild.” Like the rest of the tracks, it’s fast paced and fills you with the urge to pound along. What follows are the two best tracks on the album. “Blood of the Fallen” and “Cheating the Reaper.” 

“Blood of the Fallen” echoes Iron Maiden’s “The Trooper.” The main riff is addictive and provoking, while the lyrics paint pictures of a bloody battlefield littered with the corpses of a soldier’s fallen brothers. The soldier was ejected from Hell and sent back to Earth, as the raging warfare above has damned too many souls to reap. However, sometimes the Reaper can be a little too greedy. “Cheating the Reaper” opens up with a riff that emanates Judas Priest. “Cheating the Reaper” seems almost like a continuation of  “Hellbound for the Ocean”, expanding on their lust for freedom and adventure. They’re living life to the fullest until the Reaper comes, and when he does come, they then cheat him. Taking all life has to offer and then some.

The final highlight is “Ride High.” It tells a story of travel and triumph. Every “harbour” they visit is a city that they “conquer”, bringing their own brand of cutthroat power metal to the masses. The remaining tracks tend to blend in. Not remarkable but still worthy of a 9/10 in total. A fantastic and unique album.

TRACKLIST

Triumph And Death (intro)
Heart Of Stone
Dance Of The Dead
Iron Fist Of Rock
Hellbound For The Ocean
Blood Of The Fallen
Cheating The Reaper
Slaves & Masters
Wavebreakers
Ride High
Howell’s Victory
Wild Horde

https://blazonstone.bandcamp.com/

This review is the property of J.D. Tuggle and Metal Gods TV.
It is strictly prohibited to copy any part of this review, unless you have all
of the parties’ permission, or are the band/record label/PR company in
question. Failure to adhere to these instructions will be considered as
Plagiarism and you will be reported to the appropriate authorities.

---