Album Review: Dungeon Crawl & Throne of Iron – The Side Quest (Wise Blood Records)

Wise Blood Records presents a split album of Dungeons & Dragons inspired metal from Dungeon Crawl and Throne of Iron entitled The Side Quest. These heavy metal allies combine forces with a thrilling campaign packed with monster-slaying riffs across 7 new tracks. The Side Quest releases December 16th on Vinyl and CD from Wise Blood Records.

You certainly don’t have to like or even know anything about Dungeons and Dragons to enjoy this split release. Such is the fun, entertaining and heavy power of both band’s music. Although, fans of D&D will probably get a little more out of it.

Up first, it’s Dungeon Crawl’s turn and their roll of the dice puts them slap bang in the midst of an atmospheric journey, where danger lurks around every corner. The Minions of a Dark Master are nearby, and the threat is all too real.

The fight is on, and Dungeon Crawl are wielding riffs made of steel, drums that are hit with hammers, and bloodshed vocals. Fast and frantic, the thrashiness of Where the Coin Falls is certainly an attention-grabber. Followed then by the chaotic, pit-slaying ferocity of Critical Failure. Before their half of the record wraps up with another classy head-banger that adds to the blood-thumping experience that has been Dungeon Crawl’s part of The Side Quest.

It’s Throne of Iron next and they have a more ‘traditional’ metal sound, albeit rawer and more epic sounding. A sound that certainly fits with the theme of the record and is thoroughly enjoyable. Even if the drumming is a bit off as the bass sounds like a bucket is being hit. Thankfully, it’s not outright horrible and the rest of the instruments make enough noise so it’s not overpowering.

The three tracks Throne of Iron offer; Gods of Liquid Gold, Curse of the Lightningmancer, and Tricksters, all have a suitably grand feel. Plenty of energy and plenty of epic head-banging heaviness.

Links

Dungeon Crawl – Instagram | Throne of Iron – Facebook | Wise Blood Records