Unleash the Archers is a band that reliably produces songs that are unconventional and wildly exciting. This Canadian Power Metal act has broken barriers in the genre by their dauntless divergences, hearty songwriting, and overall efficacious passion. The quintet is preparing to release their sixth full-length album, Phantoma (Napalm Records), which elevates their innovative skills and strengths to new heights.

This is an Artificial Intelligence-inspired concept album where lyricist and vocalist Brittney Slayes showcases her storytelling savvy. The title is named after the central character who is a robot growing in consciousness and the opening number, “Human Era”, sets the scene. The weighty wistfulness in the guitars and dash of synth work creates a futuristic vibe. There is an unease in the well-sculpted melody that is ominous yet enticing. 

The next several numbers are bustling with dystopian drama. Slayes’ signature high-pitched hollers and galloping guitars on “Ph4NT0” and “The Collective” captures the band’s playful Power Metal side. There is an exuberance on “Buried In Code” and “Green & Glass”, making them real “pump-up” pieces. The breakneck speeds, memorable melodies, and relatable struggles Phantoma is facing creates a full immersion into the story. 

There is a dip in pace on the second half of the record with the more poppy piece, “Gods In Decay” and the eighties-like Rock ballad “Give It Up Or Give It All”. This slight lull conveys the questioning and forlornness our protagonist is going through. The pristine and precise vocal capabilities of Slayes clearly conveys the intensity of the story. Each member plays with a warm fervor that channels the harsh realities and social commentary on AI. 

The oomph comes back on “Ghosts In The Mist” where Grant Truesdell parades his Death Metal vocals and the guitars get crisp and crunchy. The groove and intricate bottom end on “Seeking Vengeance” makes it one of the weightiest songs on the record, showing off newest member Nick Miller’s expertise. The album ends on a big note with “Blood Empress”. There is a ripened rock and roll rasp to it that gives a mature feel divulging about the issue of identity. The story and superabundance of varied influences on this record keeps the listener absorbed from beginning to end. The use of eighties Rock to traditional Metal to Pop all highlighted with zany electronics showcases how this band has a knack to be masterfully inventive.  Unleash the Archers admirably set their goals high, and this new record proves they can reach them.

Buy the album here:
https://www.napalmrecordsamerica.com/unleashthearchers

7 / 10
RAGIN ROSIE