‘Prometheus’ stole fire from the gods to give to mankind, the chemical element ‘Promethium’ was named after him. This five piece have also taken the name of that rare metal, which is both dazzling and radiant. If I listen to a few of my friends, who have seen them play live, they match the criteria in every way. A rare type of metal that is lustrous in appearance. This is the fifth album from the Lancastrians, who have undergone a few line up changes recently. Although they have been in existence for over ten years, the new branding seems to be working, more attention from both media and the public has witnessed a kind of underground following, waiting to surface and splatter once ‘Bleeding The Ghost’ hits the fan.
An intro entitled ‘Goat’ sets the scene. Strong guitar strings whisper and echo with a feeling of slight trepidation, slowly unravelling before the title track springs forth. New vocalist James Candlin sounds determined, as he pounds his lines with direct and uncompromising resolve. He wrote the majority of the lyrics for the album and provided some fresh and original melodies. Backing him on guitars, long time member Daniel Lovett-Horn, who also produced the album and new man Andy Haworth, ‘The only man on the radar’ according to Daniel ! Andy has also helped with the writing. ‘Priest’ sends shockwaves through my speakers, higher vocals persist over a bad ass lower riff. Quite a journey and the lyrics are as dark and mystical as you can get. The next song ‘Murder She Wrote’ portrays the work of ‘Agatha Christie’ emphasising the way her books were conceived. A catchy tune, with a murderous theme. ‘Healing Your Skin’ has a lengthy introduction with speed guitar venturing into another stupendous riff. The gripping lines ‘You’re Breathing In, They Bleed Your Sins’ stop you in your tracks, absolute genius. A marvellous guitar solo takes the reins bringing it to an end. ‘Knives Out’ was inspired by a friends story telling, it’s another dark and starkly written track. No let up as James drives the words to the ground, hard to believe he is new to singing this type of genre.
The album drifts into ‘Manhattan’ which is a beautiful yet rather poignant song. The melody rises through the truth and sadness of the lyrics, exposing the dangers of mankind. James, once again is outstanding, holding the song with remarkable talent. ‘Catfish’ sinks ‘Beneath the murky waters’ of temptation. A faster pace and shouting backing vocals, it’s some distance from the previous tracks. New drummer Stu Gordon, has helped on arrangement and ‘Snakebite’ definitely has a strong rhythm, keeping more ‘Post-Grunge’ in direction. Vibrant bass from Ben MacFarlane is key here, underscoring the bottom line. ‘My Fate’ draws ‘Bleeding The Ghost’ to an end. Heavy and without mercy as it takes its predetermined course. I like the contrast ‘Promethium’ exhibit between the weighty guitars and mesmerising vocals, a rare metal quality indeed.
You may not have heard of Promethium before, they’re even a new discovery for me. However, this album should be added to your pile, if you like heavy metal that has a prominent, melodic twist.
‘Weighty guitars and mesmerising vocals, a rare metal quality indeed’.
HIGHLIGHTS – Bleeding The Ghost, Healing Your Skin, Knives Out, Manhattan.
Anyone who pre-orders “Bleeding the Ghost” gets a free CD from the back catalogue, visit the website below.
All back Catalogue CD’S are still only £5, but they are selling out fast.
Good news, new T-Shirt designs will be landing very soon.
Bleeding The Ghost Production Credits –
Additional vocals – Dan, Ben, Sam Nico, Kev Yates, Mick.
Strings on My Fate – Andrew ‘Tank’ Lord
Produced by Daniel Lovett-Horn, Co-Produced by Mick Armistead
Mixed/Mastered by Mick Armistead
All Lyrics by James Candlin (with some additional 80’s bits by Dan !)
