Review SHEPHERDS REIGN ‘Ala Mai’

Metalheads, looking for something special, that might be the target group for a band like Shepherds Reign. The Polynesian metal outfit is hailing from South Auckland, New Zealand and what the guys deliver on their ‘Ala Mai’ album has a wow-effect.

In a way I feel reminded to Sepultura during the ‘Roots’-days. This comparison doesn’t build on many musical parallels. Although Shepherds Reign has similar thundering riffs in their offer too it is more the combination of metal and cultural background that creates a rather unique blend.

The spiritual intro ‘Samoa O La’u Fesili’ brings the cultural heritage to life before the metal part takes over with the bone-crushing riff that kick starts ‘Aiga’. Rhythm and groove are what Shepherds Reign utilize in perfection and it doesn’t matter where on the tracklist you drop the needle; what you get to hear wants to make your tired body move. Check out ‘Nafanua’ and nuanced title track, both showing the versatility of Shepherds Reign’s sound.

With all the mix and match of styles, harsh metal riffs, somewhere between thrash metal and modern metal are what drives the album. Still there are peaceful moments, like the start of ‘Cold Summers Night’. The acoustic track and its clean vocals create a peaceful moment with lyrics that aren’t that soul wrapping. The songs paints the picture of realizing depression. Even the shift of gears towards the end doesn’t take away this vibe. Also calmer but different is ‘Never Forgotten’. It’s the sound of a piano together with some vocals, kicking off this tune before it evolves to heavy but atmospheric anthem. Also ere the background is rather sad as the tune is a homage to the son of guitarist Oliver, a kid that passed away and will never be forgotten. Both songs are touching moment on an album that isn’t shy of heavy riffs.

Shepherds Reign deliver a versatile and muscular album. Groove metal together with Polynesian roots is a combination that fascinates, and I just can imagine the impact of listening to these songs live.