Prepare to embark on a mind-bending odyssey as Witch Ripper unleashes their sophomore full-length album, “The Flight After The Fall.” Hailing from the heart of Seattle, this melodic sludge metal ensemble boldly ventures into uncharted musical territories, crafting a captivating narrative inspired by the vintage pulp science fiction tales of yesteryears.
Witch Ripper skillfully amalgamates the raw intensity of their aggressive metal / rock roots with an array of electrifying elements that enthralled from the first note to the last. Their trademark ferocity remains intact, but it’s seamlessly intertwined with intricate guitar interplay and cosmic atmospherics that take listeners on a cosmic journey through space and time.
The album’s storyline is an enthralling fusion of mad science, emotional turmoil, and cosmic exploration. Themes of love, failure, loss, and acceptance weave together to create a rich and immersive narrative that unfolds with each track. As the listener delves deeper into the world of “The Flight After The Fall,” they’ll encounter cryogenic chambers, a mad professor, and the enigmatic allure of a black hole.
Witch Ripper’s musical dexterity shines throughout the album. Beyond the explosive riffs and relentless drumming, moments of respite reveal themselves with subtle synthesizer touches that add depth and emotion to the sonic experience. But perhaps most surprising are the unshakably catchy clean vocal hooks that soar like shooting stars amidst the heavy storm of guitars and thunderous rhythms.
Influences from the annals of rock history are evident in the band’s compositions. A nod to the arena rock grandeur of Queen and the captivating artistry of David Bowie can be felt in the grandiosity of the arrangements. Yet, Witch Ripper also draws inspiration from modern progressive acts like Coheed and Cambria and the atmospheric allure of Muse, creating a unique blend that defies categorization.
“The Flight After The Fall” is a testament to Witch Ripper’s artistic growth and unyielding dedication to their craft. Born and raised in a city known for its loud music and grey skies, the band stays true to their American metal roots, infusing the album with big riffs, infectious hooks, and a commanding drumming performance.
With this album, Witch Ripper cements their place as formidable torchbearers of the guitar-driven US experimental metal scene. The band’s love for pulp science fiction and their ability to translate that passion into a musical journey of epic proportions sets them apart as visionary storytellers in the realm of heavy music.
In conclusion, “The Flight After The Fall” is an exhilarating triumph that captivates both the mind and soul. Witch Ripper’s bold fusion of cosmic atmospherics and rock bombast creates an otherworldly experience that leaves a lasting impression on listeners. This is an album that deserves to be heard by all who crave a cosmic escape through the power of music.
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Released by Magnetic Eye Records on March 3rd, 2023
