Savage Master: Embracing the Dark & Dangerous
Introduction to Savage Master
Hailing from Louisville, Kentucky, Savage Master has carved out a unique niche in the modern traditional heavy metal scene. With a discography that includes four albums and two EPs, the band has consistently delivered a sound that is both familiar and fresh, without straying too far from their roots. At the helm is the charismatic vocalist Stacey Savage, whose stage presence and vocal prowess are complemented by her bandmates, who don masked outfits reminiscent of the enigmatic ghouls from Ghost. Their latest offering, Dark & Dangerous, marks their fifth studio album and promises to deliver the same fun and engaging experience that fans have come to expect.
The Album’s Opening Tracks
Dark & Dangerous kicks off with a haunting introduction titled “Three Red Candles,” which sets the stage for the album’s journey. This intro seamlessly transitions into the opening track, “Warrior’s Call.” While the song features a galloping rhythm typical of heavy metal, it doesn’t quite ignite the excitement one might hope for from an opening track. However, the subsequent track, “Black Rider,” picks up the pace and showcases Stacey Savage’s vocal charisma, alongside a more energetic guitar presence that was somewhat lacking in the opener.
Building Momentum
As the album progresses, the energy continues to build with the standout track “The Edge of Evil.” Here, Savage Master introduces an occult rock vibe that adds depth to their sound, with hints of Pat Benatar’s influence woven throughout. The track “Devil’s Child” further highlights Stacey’s vocal range, culminating in an impressive guitar solo that elevates the song. The infectious riffing in “Screams from the Cellar” invites listeners to dance along, while “Never Ending Fire” features a storming intro that showcases the band’s ability to thrive in a faster-paced environment, making it one of the album’s highlights.
Catchy Hooks and Versatility
Savage Master’s knack for crafting anthemic tunes shines through in “Devil Rock,” which boasts catchy hooks and a memorable chorus. The guitar work in this track is particularly noteworthy, with solos that demonstrate the band’s versatility. The influence of ‘80s hard rock becomes even more apparent in “I Never Wanna Fall in Love,” where the band successfully infuses their signature sound with a nostalgic twist.
Maintaining Freshness
While the band typically operates within a mid-tempo framework, they skillfully introduce variations to keep the listening experience engaging. “When the Twilight Meets the Dawn” stands out as the most aggressive track on the album, delivering a powerful punch that showcases the band’s range. The album concludes with “Cold Hearted Death,” a six-minute ballad that allows Stacey Savage to display her vocal depth, culminating in a triumphant guitar solo that wraps up the album on a high note.
Overall Impression
Although Dark & Dangerous doesn’t start with a bang, it gradually builds momentum, revealing its strengths as it progresses. The blend of occult rock and ‘80s hard rock elements gives this album a distinct personality, while the band’s mid-tempo sound remains a consistent thread throughout their discography. Stacey Savage shines as the frontwoman, supported by talented guitarists who deliver impressive solos. Overall, the album is an enjoyable listen, offering a solid experience for fans of the genre without breaking new ground.
Rating
3.5/5 Flaming Toilets ov Hell
Dark & Dangerous is set to release on March 28 via Shadow Kingdom Records, promising to be a noteworthy addition to Savage Master’s catalog.
