Lords Of Black was born in 2014 under the impulse of the spanish Tony Hernando. The guitarist chose to associate with the now famous Ronnie Romero, Blackmore's little protégé since the legendary guitar-hero entrusted him with the microphone on Rainbow's tours in 2015 who was the attraction of this new combo. Indeed, he has largely contributed to the launch of Lords Of Black, which releases today its fourth album called "Alchemy Of Souls, Pt. I".
Considered by Blackmore as a cross between Dio and Freddy Mercury, the Chilean is one more time monumental. However, Lords Of Black also draws its success from the undeniable talent of its progenitor. Hernando is omnipresent, as well on the rhythmics as on the solos worthy of Malmsteen. Jo Nuñez (ex-Firewind, Kamelot), the new and talented drummer, brings his share of power to the ensemble.
Labeling Lords Of Black does not make sense. Indeed, we can find in the developed structures elements coming from several musical styles like Heavy metal, power metal, melodic metal, and even some progressive movements. Also, appear here and there similarities with bands such as Masterplan, Savatage, Dio and Rainbow, Malmsteen, Queensrÿche, Vanden Plas and even Dream Theater.
The hits are legion and varied. 'Dying To Live Again', with its dazzling start and catchy guitar theme, takes us back to Magnus Karlsson's productions, 'Into The Black' flirts, in its attack riffs, with Judas Priest and with Malmsteen on his destructive solo. 'Delivrance Lost' and its many changes of rhythm evokes Angra. Also worthy of mention are the heavy and progressive 'Brightest Star' close to Queenrÿche or Metallica, and 'Shadows Kill Twice' notable for its break filled with telluric riffs and melodious solos, which exhales Savatage. Let us save the best for the end by evoking the eponymous title, a ten-minute piece whose long thunderous central part reminds us of Vanden Plas and Dream Theater.
Lords Of Black undeniably offers us here its best album. "Alchemy Of Souls, Pt. I" will delight all fans of the above-mentioned styles and combos. Let's hope that this Pt. 1 will have an equally engaging sequel.