Solstice (GBR) - Death's Crown Is Victory (2013)^{Release ID: 3341}

The Review Draft here at Metal Academy has again forced me to really delve into a release from a band I'd previously only dabbled with, only to find that I've been missing out on something great. This EP from English band Solstice is a pretty clear mix of heavy metal and doom metal and while that combination doesn't always bring me joy, the great production and epic atmosphere of these 4 tracks have put this right in my wheelhouse. I may not personally feel that the Epic Doom Metal subgenre is required, but surely the music on display here is exactly what the pushers have in mind. If the excellent riffs, melodies and leads aren't enough to make you think of times long past and glories well earned, then Paul Kearns' soaring vocals surely will. The band that most comes to mind when listening to this EP is Manowar, with slightly less cheese and a fair bit more doom. I'm actually fine with that, and now find myself eager to delve into the rest of Solstice's discography. As far as recommendations go, there's really only two tracks (along with lengthy intro and outro instrumentals), with the near 10 minute monster title track being the easy highlight for me. In fact, I think I'll request this track be included in the October Fallen playlist to share the glory.