Heavy metal is one of those sounds that’s constantly pushing itself forward while simultaneously in a state of perpetual content with what the sound can be as it was decades ago it was mastered with little to no innovation dared since. And really, it’s not needed. There’s nothing that can compare to when heavy metal is given the proper treatment in order to become an addictive, badass slab of metal that’s not to be trifled with and there are still plenty of acts out there seeking to bring further glory to a sound that many would falsely claim is on its last leg. Thanks to acts like High Warden, such doubts are effortlessly defied.

While this is one of those sounds that can still deliver a level of high quality even when it’s done by a formula that hasn’t seen much change over the decades, but to witness a band come around that makes the sound their own and manages to not just put in some real flavor but deliver on damn near every front? Near tear-inducing it is. The genre has never lacked in quantity, but it’s thanks to bands like High Warden that we’re able to get quality of a sort undeniable. Throughout the very whole of “Astral Iron”, we’re given a true tour de force of what it means to witness heavy metal that revels in many of the classic tropes while taking its time with mid-paced and slower tempos that really allow you to take up all the different flavors that are at play for all six of these tracks. Bombastic and downright addicting from top to bottom, High Warden achieves much in what is only the act’s debut album; a fact that only heightens the splendor of the work. Where potential and passion for the style unashamedly come together for a highly engaging display of power that demands to continuously lose yourself in the work lest you miss out on a delectable aspect you didn’t notice before, “Astral Iron” is a patient work that makes one confident step after another to deliver nothing short of a real spectacle.

A debut the likes of which heavy metal is always waiting for. Whereas many of us are salivating for the return of bands like Visigoth, Eternal Champion, or Megaton Sword, it relies upon new names to come about and show us what they too are made out of. Without a shred of doubt in my mind, it’s clear that High Warden has got the makings of true excellence after witnessing what they’ve thrown down within “Astral Iron”. A love letter to all that is heavy metal, High Warden sets the stage for its domination over the sound.

LISTEN to “Astral Iron” on Bandcamp here.

LIKE High Warden on Facebook here.