Album Review: Shadow Smile – Signed In Blood (Self Released)

Shadow Smile, the visionary metal band often referred to as the ‘Steel City Vampire Crew’, are set to release their highly anticipated debut album ‘Signed in Blood’ on the 18th August 2023. This concept piece dives into the theology of the Seven Deadly Sins (pride, greed, wrath, lust, envy, gluttony & sloth) and their profound impact on modern day society.

Going for something quite cinematic with opener Se7en, Shadow Smile build lofty expectations as the track builds and builds with power. So much so, that the cleaner vocals that ring out as it transitions perfectly into Signed in Blood are actually disconcerting at first, even if they sound immense. Once the initial surprise passes, this track proves itself to be an absolute anthemic beast with crunchy guitars, pounding percussion and epic vocals.

It’s a very impressive start, but the realisation that everything Shadow Smile does is impressive, quickly becomes apparent as they hit a crowd-pleasing high with Hellbound Heart. A track that will cause some carnage in the pit, while having a kickass chorus too. Get used to hearing massive choruses throughout, as the following Our Mortality has another. Although the actual appeal of this track is the hyperactive speed and savagery that holds the entire thing together. A furious example of an out and out head-banger.

The cinematic values are back in serious style with Vainglory et Avarice, where a piano melody cuts right to the soul. Let the emotion of that track wash over you, as you’re going to need some energy for the stompy groove of Before Every Fall, the grandiose and elaborate Take What You Can (Give Nothing Back), and the grungy, moody, and dramatic The Devil Makes Work for Idle Hands. Over this part of the album, Shadow Smile showcase variety, proving they’re far from just ‘one-trick ponies.’

Although that section just happens to result in a constant slew of unforgettable anthems. Which is further shown with the latter part of the album. First, there’s another intermission, a mellow and heartfelt tune called Soul Journey. Then along comes The World Is in My Way, arguably the grandest sounding track of all. The melody in this track is simply stunning. Before it’s one last outrageously catchy singalong effort with Suck the World Dry. One last huge tune to send the mind, body, and soul in a euphoric state.

It’s one hell of a refined release. Shadow Smile sound like they’ve been doing this for a lot longer than they have. A wall-to-wall album of metal anthems. What’s not to love?

Shadow Smile – Signed in Blood Track Listing:

1. Se7en
2. Signed in Blood
3. Hellbound Heart
4. Our Morality
5. Vainglory et Avarice
6. Before Every Fall
7. Take What You Can (Give Nothing Back)
8. The Devil Makes Work for Idle Hands
9. Soul Journey
10. The World Is in My Way
11. Suck the World Dry

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