Anciients seemingly have burst from out of nowhere to deliver one of the most impressive debut albums in recent years. It would seem that way but the truth is Anciients have been working and gigging tirelessly perfecting their sound before unleashing it on the unsuspecting public.
Formed in Vancouver, their line up is Chris Dyck – guitar/vocals, Kenneth Paul Cook – guitar/vocals, Aaron “Boon” Gustafson – bass, Mike Hannay – drums.
Heart of Oak is a knockout opening move from the band, impressively executed. I've already seen comparisons made to behemoths Mastodon and Baroness. While this is relevant Anciients have plenty more than re-hashing others' work to offer. They have a harsh death metal edge to the vocals at times and tracks combine elements of huge riffs and melodies with more crushing heavier moments.
It’s an undeniable sound and fans of the two previously mentioned bands will be drooling at what's on offer here, while appealing to a broad range of fans as well. Anciients talents extend to the craft in their song writing. 'Overthrone' is the first to lodge in the memory with its glorious riffs and infectious vocals. Combing powerful drumming with Thin Lizzy inspired riffs, while sounding like the musical equivalent of Game of Thrones. At this point (it’s the second song), I was sold on what Heart of Oak is about. 'The Longest River' is a near ten minute epic, with rhythm building then spiralling, the guitar tone here is amazing and sick sounding. With riffs and melodies intensifying it has a classic rock feel about it and it is one of the many highlights on Heart of Oak. 'Raise the Sun', which opens the album is a perfect example of Anciients' sound combining all the elements together for maximum effect.
Anciients also remind me of Opeth, maybe not in direct musical style, more in how they shift from the heavier almost death metal sound to glorious classic/sludge metal effortlessly during tracks. It’s an impressive achievement that belies their relative early stage. I've highlighted a couple of songs already but truth is everything here is of highest quality. Even last track 'For Lisa' is a heartfelt blues workout, instrumental and delivered with a progressive edge.
Heart of Oak despite its variation of styles is all natural feeling and highly impressive. They sound like they've spent two or three albums hammering out and perfecting this sound. For that not to be the case is truly impressive and an indication I think we'll be hearing lots more of Anciients for years to come.
