Search - Eyes of Fire :: Ashes to Embers

An Emotional Journey in Metal

Michael R. Fine | Ogden, Utah | 04/06/2004

(5 out of 5 stars)

"From the early rudimentary pain of the Blues to the exploration of anguish and isolation by Joy Division in the late seventies, many musical talents have explored the art of pain. Enter "Eyes of Fire" and their new CD, "Ashes to Embers." This haunting exploration of sadness and sorrow breaks new ground in the Metal arena.Unlike other Metal albums that take on the darker side of music, "Eyes of Fire" focuses on the psychological aspects of the human condition through a variety of styles. The album opens with a soft and sorrowful track called "The End Result of Falling..." Reminiscent of Radiohead or Anathema, the track is brooding and powerful in a gentle style.However, power can exhibit itself in many forms and the album quickly takes a pounding turn with two tracks that expose their former incarnation as Orange County's "Mindrot." "Empty" and "Fly Away" thunder angrily with brazen and bold agony and contempt. This is pure hard rocking metal with no excuses. The album then follows emotional angst through a gradual lifting and falling. At times tender and cold, then angry, fiery and ferocious, this album covers all the bases and then expounds brilliantly into a distinctive and completely unique collection. The vocal styles shift to match the song yet remain true to the theme and feel of the album.Presumably, they could have just screamed and raked their hands violently over the guitars to evoke this anger. However, these fellows are intelligent enough to know better. Unlike many Metal bands, "Eyes of Fire" understands the power of subtlety. In "Breathe," we hear a soft and gentle utterance of the title in the middle of the track.Production on "Ashes to Embers" is masterful. Each instrument is distinct and laden with power. The vocals are crisp and concise and the use of synthesizers puts on an excellent undertone to this passionate work. Cameron Webb, a seasoned veteran, along with Eyes of Fire have worked some magic here. The album reaches a pinnacle with two powerful and evocative tracks. "Shelter" is intense, rapid and violent .Then it is followed by the deep and dirge-like "Last Goodbye." Both are exercises in rejection and disappointment but presented in two different musical forms and two emotional spaces. It is unfair to liken this band to others in that they cover a lot of ground and styles while remaining very cohesive. Each track is reminiscent of the dark metal genre and could be compared to any number of bands. However, it is better to listen and appreciate "Eyes of Fire" for their own distinct and unique approach.In all, "Eyes of Fire" have achieved an excellent sense of balance and theme in this exceptional work. Metal has rarely found this kind of emotional space and anyone who is looking to expand beyond your average thrash and burn will truly appreciate this work."