Empyre is a rather new band, from the UK, that released three albums in the last four years. Their first work came out in 2019, their second (and acoustic one) in 2021, and their most recent studio release is out now. “Third time’s a charm”, they say, and “Relentless” proves it in a variety of ways. The production is powerful and rich on the whole. The album was recorded with Neil Haynes (Mindtech, Tableau Mort, etc.) at Parlour Recording Studio, and it was mixed by Chris Clancy (Machine Head, Those Damn Crows, Massive Wagons, etc.) at Audioworks.
On the music part, Empyre has embellished their rock sound, with alternative, post-grunge, modern, hard rock, pop-rock, art-rock and a few prog rock elements. The lyrics are meaningful and emotionally charged, and the album flows smoothly from start to finish. The melodies are wonderful, and the way Henrik Steenholdt sings adds more passion and depth to the final outcome. It wouldn’t be fair not to mention the lead guitarist Did Coles, the bass player Grant Hockley and the drummer Elliot Bale, who all work effectively together to deliver the goods. Needless to say, that the musicianship is really strong.
“Hit and Run” is probably the album’s mega “hit”, but you will also revel in songs like “Relentless”, “Waking Light”, “Parasites”, “Cry Wolf”, “Forget Me”, “Road to Nowhere”, “Quite Commotion” and “Your Whole Life Slows”. Empyre has the ability to craft well-written songs that are both musically and lyrically captivating.
“Relentless” establishes Empyre’s status as one of the most exciting and brilliant rock bands of our time. This album will gratify all the rock fans who are looking for fresh and well-crafted music. Empyre has a bright future ahead of them…
