Rough Edge: Blaze Bayley CD Reviews

BLAZE BAYLEY
(see also BLAZE)

"Infinite Entanglement" (Blaze Bayley Recordings; 2016)

Reviewed by R. Scott Bolton

The problem I have with a lot of concept albums is that I know there's a story that supposed to be unfolding but I have absolutely no idea what the hell's going on. The story often gets lost in confusing lyrics, music that seems out of place, and choppy story-telling.

That is not the case with former Iron Maiden and Wolfsbane vocalist Blaze Bayley's new solo album. The story within "Infinite Entanglement" is clear as a bell and easy to follow. It's a science fiction story about a long-term space mission and its effect on the personnel involved. It's a riveting story, powerfully told. In a sense, "Infinite Entanglement" is as much an audio book as a rock'n'roll album.

Okay, that isn't actually the case. This is a rock'n'roll album, pure and simple and, for my money, one of Blaze's best. Even if you didn't have the story going for it, the music on this record is big, driving heavy metal, with Blaze's unmistakable voice and melodies that will stick with you long after you've listened. The guitars are chunky and fast, although things slow down when it's appropriate. And, unlike some concept albums, the music fits the story. I've listened to this album twice in a row today and it just sticks to the ribs.

So, whether you're looking for a concept album or just a kick-ass heavy metal album, "Infinite Entanglement" will probably fit the bill.

For more information, check out http://www.blazebailey.com.

"Promise and Terror" (Candlelight; 2010)

Reviewed by Mike SOS

"Promise and Terror" is former Iron Maiden singer Blaze Bayley’s latest effort, an 11-track offering with discernibly traditional metal flair (“Faceless”).

Bolstered by a set of rudimentary yet rousing arrangements where Bayley’s emotionally charged mid-range can shine (“Letting Go of the World”), this effort doles out a basic yet effective metal attack linking Sanctuary and Iced Earth (“God of Speed”) with a few expected variations such as the acoustic intro of “Surrounded by Sadness” strewn in for good measure.

Cloaked with the darkness of Bayley’s recent personal tragedies and administering a by-the-book metal assault, this disc yields a solid listen for those with metal’s classic era in mind.

For more information, check out http://www.blazebailey.com.

Rating Guide:

A classic. This record will kick your ass.

Killer. Not a classic but it will rock your world.

So-so. You've heard better.

Pretty bad. Might make a nice coaster.

Self explanatory. Just the sight of the cover makes you wanna hurl.

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