Time Signature The demented force of metal...

Genre: traditional heavy metal

Featuring members who are or have been involved in the likes of Exciter, Portrait, Cult of the Fox, Void Moon, and Goatess, Assassin's Blade is a band of seasoned metal veterans. Their debut album "Agents of Mystification" was released earlier this year on Pure Steel.

While definitely traditional heavy metal, the songs on the album have a darker feel than what you might normally expect from this genre. For instance, the title track even features very slight inklings of black metal influence, while the darkly epic 'Dreadnought' could be the satanic kid brother of Priest's 'Metal Gods'. The uptempo 'Transgression' is punky and aggressive. Despite the dark feel, traditional metal fans will be happy to know that there are galloping riffs and twin guitars as well as heavy metal screams and a lot of melody on the album (just check out a song like 'Autumn Serenade').

Given how experienced the musicians involved are, it should be no surprise that the level of musicianship and songwriting is quite high. These guys know their metal, and, while obviously masters at their craft, they understand the power of restraint and simplicity. No solos go overboard and no song gets too technical. Much like the incredibly underrated Tim Owens, Bélanger's vocals combine sneering with heavy metal screams and complement the dark music very well.

"Agents of Mystification" should appeal to fans of traditional heavy metal, speed metal, and perhaps even dark metal. It is a very solid effort and a strong debut by a band consisting of very experienced musicians.