Acrites

Judging by album/song-titles, lyrics, cover and origin, this obscurity sure teases the listener to envision nothing but epic cult-ness on the scale of STORMBRINGER “Stealer of Souls” or – if reaching for a reference closer to home – SACRAMENT’s “Untamed, Free Spirit”. Although I wouldn’t want to accuse ACRITES of wrongful marketing (I enjoy this tape quite a lot when in the right mood), those who expect this self-titled debut demo to sound in a certain way will probably experience either a letdown or plain bafflement.

Things start out fairly normal with the opening track “Dilemma”, which brings the sounds of garage-level, slightly Maiden-esque heavy metal that manage to be both up-tempo and melancholic at the same time. The cryptic production, subdued vocals and programmed drums can easily be overlooked when the lead-guitars kick in with grandiose, emotive melodies. However, by the second track “The Call of War” it becomes apparent that heavy metal is one of several elements present on this recording. The subject of war is maintained, but the general mood of the music takes an even more decisive turn towards contemplation and gloom, with stylistic nods to the softer sides of PINK FLOYD and WISHBONE ASH. For some reason, the NWOBHM-underdogs OMEGA also spring to mind.

Moving on to the instrumental “Divine Storm”, yet another vista opens up. With its heavy reliance on keyboards, “Divine Storm” is arguably the most atmospheric and multi-faceted track. We’re also treated with pleasant washes of lead guitar, positioning the music closer to comfy metal territories again (yay!). “The Call of Pan” follows with a strong opening sequence, but takes a drop pretty soon thanks to a not so wise decision to let the vocals and guitars sing/play the same melody. (Almost) never a good decision, if you ask me. Anyway, this track brings together the band’s disparate influences with acceptable results. The final song, called “Wake up Alexander”, is probably the strangest one. Especially the ballad-like beginning, which wouldn’t sound out of place on a Leonard Cohen album… After a while though, the band picks up a more dignified pace, concluding in a grand finale as the demo comes to an end.

Despite their excentric and ecclectic style, it should be noted that ACRITES are very consistent in their war-centered thematics. Moreover, their approach to the subject matter avoids certain stereotypes that often comes with the style. Here you can experience not only the ecstasy of victory, but the less glorious side of the coin. Whether or not ACRITES succeed into translating it all into good music is up to the listener to decide.

Written by Johan Pettersson