Review SERPENT RIDER “The Ichor of Chimaera”

Serpent Rider is releasing an album this spring called “The Ichor of Chimaera.” The band began in 2015, and after a start in Los Angeles, California, the five-piece moved to Seattle, Washington. Two split releases brought the guys to the attention of No Remorse Records, the Greek label known for a pretty exciting portfolio of underground metal bands.

Serpent Rider definitely fit into this category, as their partly doom-driven metal is beyond any trend. The influences of the quintet can be found a few decades back, as it is the sound of bands like Manilla Road, Black Sabbath and Candlemass that helped Serpent Rider shape their sound. In a way, some of these influences can be heard in songs like “Tyrant’s March”. It is an up-tempo start with some mesmerizing vocals that slowly give way to a more moderately paced stretch with epic metal references.

“Steel is the Answer” is the opener of “The Ichor of Chimaera” and reflects more the epic metal approach of the band. After a short narration as an intro, the song stays in a moderate tempo with blazing solo parts. In a way, the song is a good choice as opener since it sets the tone for the album.

The title track, with its 7 minute running time, is a fusion of epic metal and doom metal. Slowly and with a mesmerizing intensity, the songs slowly reveal the band’s passion for detail. There is a lot to discover while listening to the track, although it took me a few listens before the song started to show its infectious charm.

“The Hero’s Spirit” reflects a similar approach as the title track, only in a more condensed way. The riff-driven doom beast is a dark and slow metal track and one of the most atmospheric moments on this release.

Ten years after their beginnings, Serpent Rider launch their debut album. It is a milestone for the band and all the ingredients for a solid metal album are present. Furious riff power, traditional metal gallopers and snail-paced moments of doom are what resonate with these songs. Fans of the above mentioned bands should definitely check out this debut.