Review SPIRITWORLD “Helldorado”

“Helldorado” is the next chapter of a very interesting band. SpiritWorld is the name of the band founded by Stu Folsom, the inventor of death western metal. With two albums, SpiritWorld has accomplished a musical fusion that is as unusual as it is exciting for the listener.

Like the previous two releases, “Helldorado” offers a wider range of songs. There is the dark and country-like “Prayer Lips”, which marks the emotional peak of the album, while other songs unleash the metal beast, starting with the mighty opener “Abilene Grime”. Equipped with a galloping beat, the song powerfully represents the musical contrasts of the album. From a very light-hearted beginning to a Slayer-based second half, the song has all the hallmarks of Spiritworld.

Mentioning the thrash metal pioneers also means talking about “No Vacancy in Heaven”. The song takes its heaviness and inspiration from bands like Slayer and at the same time is more than just a copycat.

Something different is “Bird Song of Death”, which shows another side of SpiritWorld’s music. Rooted in country and Americana, the song has a punk-inspired groove to it, not least because of the sing-along chorus. The thunderous “Waiting on the Reaper” brings back the metal vibes. This time it’s once more the thrash metal references that define the metallic aspect of the album, though “Waiting on the Reaper” also has some hardcore elements, especially when you consider the shouts in the chorus.

“Cleansing” is an interlude, another acoustic and peaceful moment for the lone rider, before entering the world of metal again with “Stigmata Scars”. While listening to the album it becomes noticeable that the metal songs are very much based on a similar approach. The versatility of the record comes from the metal/country interaction that helps create a good flow, but it would be good to give the metal anthems a few more twists.

“Helldorado” is a very entertaining new album from SpiritWorld. The mix of styles is what keeps you interested, while the metallic outburst could use some more variability. However, it is fun to listen to these songs, which are perfect for a car ride into the sunset.