Beastwars hail from New Zealand, and after missing out when they released their debut I got onboard just in time for this new album. Luckily now music is truly global I'd heard a few rumblings from New Zealand about Beastwars. First thing that struck me was the stunning album artwork on both the debut and Blood Becomes Fire. Not worth much though if the music doesn't live up to the impressive packaging. Thankfully Beastwars do this and more, in truth the art and music go hand in hand portraying a dystiopian world of desoltion and war.
Lyrically Blood Becomes Fire is a concept album worthy of prog rock standards but musically Beastwars simply rock. Bringing to mind but never copying High on Fire, Motorhead, and even early Clutch, Beastwars are diesel drinking riff lords. "Obey the Riff" is displayed on their t-shirts and there's plenty to bow down to here.
Featuring the gruff tones of singer Matt Hyde, Beastwars don't waste any time getting down to business on 'Dune', providing a thick pummelling drive to get things started. Beastwars click as a band with Clayton Anderson providing meaty riffs and James Woods/Nathan Hickey handling the rhythm. 'Imperium' gets its hooks into you with some memorable riffs and melodies, one of many examples why Blood Becomes Fire rises above the pack.
'Tower Of Skulls' is one of my favourite songs by anyone around at the minute. Its catchy hypnotising rhythm grabs you from the beginning with Matt Hyde really excelling yelling "Come Join Us Here, Join Us Forever", it’s inviting and spellbinding. At times bringing Kyuss to mind this is a must have album for fans of sludge and stoner rock. 'Rivermen' is another highlight with its snaking rhythm wrapping its way around you. 'Ruins' is another full throttle rocker that carries more stomp than a herd of elephants. 'Caul of Time' is more subtle but is another that sticks in your head hours after listening with its infectious chorus. The album closes with the slow burning 'The Sleeper' displaying Beastwars ability to not just rock but pen damn good songs.
Blood Becomes Fire is the sound of a band hitting their stride and could make Beastwars your new favourite band. Available on vinyl and limited CD from April 19th and it’s available here.
