The Awakening Αρχεία - Myth Of Rock

THE AWAKENING – “THE AWAKENING” (2025, INTERVENTION ARTS)

MythofRock — Fri, 04 Jul 2025 21:35:18 +0000

South African-born, now US-based, darkwave/goth rock icon Ashton Nyte returns with “The Awakening” – the twelfth studio album from his long-running project of the same name. This self-titled album is a bright collection of powerful songs of pure dark and gothic music – and it was a revelation for me, as through these songs I came in contact with a real master of darkwave/gothic rock! Ashton Nyte creates a singular soundscape, which is haunting, emotional and atmospheric, as he blends gothic rock, darkwave, post-punk and touches of electronic rock and folk noir. Nyte’s baritone voice – dramatic, fragile, yet commanding – guides us through several themes of the human confition. There’s a cinematic quality to the production, lush and textured, with layers of synths, echoing guitars and deep, driving rhythms. Tracks like “Mirror Midnight”, “Haunting” and “Through The Veil” are already fan favorites, great darkwave/gothic rock elegies, which feel like ghosts whispering secrets in your ear. Yes, my personal favorite of “The Awakening” is the song “Continuum”, which is majestic, melancholic, and sends shivers down your spine! What’s impressive is how Nyte balances atmosphere, melody and emotion. Even at its most shadowy, “The Awakening” never loses its sense of songcraft. The captivating vocals remind you of David Bowie, and the guitar work is brilliant too! This is an album for anyone who appreciates music with depth, feeling and artistry. After decades in the game, Ashton Nyte still finds new ways to explore the darkness, and “The Awakening” might just be one of his finest works to date. Highly recommended for late nights, candlelight and introspection.

♦ 8,5/10

Dimitris Zacharopoulos

Το άρθρο THE AWAKENING – “THE AWAKENING” (2025, INTERVENTION ARTS) εμφανίστηκε πρώτα στο Myth Of Rock.

WADE BLACK’S ASTRONOMICA – “THE AWAKENING” (2024, ROAR!)

MythofRock — Wed, 24 Jan 2024 22:54:05 +0000

Wade Black‘s vocals have always been a source of admiration for me. The singer, chosen by Crimson Glory to succeed Midnight (R.I.P.), possesses an exceptional, high-pitched voice that seamlessly aligns with traditional US metal. The anticipation was palpable when I learned that Black would resurface with a project named “Astronomica” akin to the album released by Crimson Glory with Black. My excitement was justified after immersing myself in the “The Awakening” album. This is undeniably a serious US power metal offering—stripped of embellishments, free of compromises, and unbounded. From the opening note of “Deceiver” to the concluding chords of “Sirens”, the album delivers precisely what you expect: first-class American heavy metal, characterized by a mid-paced rhythm, melodic hooks, razor-sharp riffs, soaring vocals, and thunderous drums. What sets this US metal album apart is its profound inspiration. Devoid of filler, each track offers something unique, creating a series of peaks akin to a mountain range. The compositional prowess displayed in “The Awakening” is remarkable, securing its position among the top echelons of American heavy metal. Every song stands out as a highlight, with fresh and interesting ideas permeating the entire album. The more you delve into it, the more you appreciate its rewarding nature. While the spotlight naturally falls on Black’s commanding voice, Rich Marks also shines with a virtuoso performance on the guitar. In summary, Wade Black’s debut album with Astronomica is a significant contribution to the realm of American heavy metal. It stands ready to be embraced and celebrated by metalheads worldwide, constituting a US metal masterpiece that demands recognition.

♦ 8/10

Dimitris Zacharopoulos

Το άρθρο WADE BLACK’S ASTRONOMICA – “THE AWAKENING” (2024, ROAR!) εμφανίστηκε πρώτα στο Myth Of Rock.