Crimson Shadows is a phenomenal metal band that originated in Toronto, Ontario, combining the sounds and screams of death metal, with folk and power like influences and themes.
Their most recent release is called Glory on the Battlefield, which was published February 1, 2011. The intro is already off to a great start, where you hear fast and up to beat drumming, and a heavy guitar solo. Near the second half of the intro, you can hear the instrumentals progressively getting faster and faster, with the guitar and drum beat in tune with one another.
In their second track, “Battle Hard” is the continuing of the intro leading from the build up. With vocals comparable to Finntroll and powerful back up vocals, you know that from start to finish, this album will keep you amazed. Right in the middle of the song, you can hear Ryan Hofing coming out with another face ripping guitar solo that continues throughout the rest of the song.
The most powerful concept of this entire family is that three out of those five do vocals. While having Ryan on backing vocals and Greg and Jimi on main vocals, the combination of the three adds one hell of a power metal trio.
After checking out previous works by these guys, this album has taken a positive turn. Their past works aren’t far off of being a metal masterpiece, but this album has definitely shown light to the creative juices that these talented warriors have to offer.
While listening to “Beyond the Mountain Wasteland”, two of my good friends are in awe of the fantastic guitar work that is in harmony with the drummer’s speed. Each riff is different from the next, making your chest rise in the feeling of absolute domination.
The name Crimson Shadows made me initially think that this was going to be a doom metal band, but they surprised me with a much more upbeat sound full of variety.
Progressing through “For the Glory of the Throne” comes closer to the ending with a great guitar beat and all three men on vocals singing in a harmonious drinking/victorious tune, leading back to the heavy vocals that keep you thrashing.
The best and most awe-inspiring lyric in the song, “Kingdom of Ale” is when Ryan sings in an even tone saying, “We drink to your power!” While chanting, “Kingdom of Ale!” over and over.
The final ending to yet another piece of art from these guys is “Journey’s End”, talking about fate and destiny, the closing to this journey and reaching destination or victory in battle.
The artwork is like a fight to the death with a troll, covered in knights, horses, a giant, and fire. Need I say more? You can just tell this album will not disappoint from start to finish.

Overall Rating: 8/10

Track List:
Glory on the Battlefield(Intro)
Battle Hard
Beyond the Mountain Wasteland
For the Glory of the Throne
Kingdom of Ale
Quest For The Sword
Lost in a Dark Forest
Journey’s End