Album Review: Paradise Slaves - With Hell In His Eyes

What started as friends simply wanting to make music, Paradise Slaves evolves into something more with their debut release, With Hell In His Eyes.

Destiny can be aptly described as an inevitability, a force that draws people and events together by grand design. For the members of Paradise Slaves, this concept rings exceptionally true. United by a twist of fate and bound by an unwavering passion for music, Paradise Slaves has meticulously crafted a captivating sound that merges hypnotically heavy rock anthems with deep atmospheric layers and raw emotion.

This dynamic quartet, hailing from Boston yet infused with the adventurous spirit of Anchorage, showcases an extraordinary synergy among its members. Vocal powerhouse Brock Lindow, known for his electrifying presence with 36 Crazyfists, leads the charge alongside the talented solo artist and guitarist Tyler Stroetzel. Rounding out the group are the skilled guitar virtuoso Jon Kita of Diecast, the steady heartbeat of bassist Brad Horion, also from Diecast, and the relentless rhythmic force of drummer Ryan Manning, associated with Blitzkid and Pentagram. Together, they form a musical tapestry as rich and diverse as their backgrounds.

This mutual admiration, respect, and instant chemistry with each other and the music they create has sparked Paradise Slaves' debut album, With Hell In His Eyes. While the goal was just to make music with friends, what Paradise Slaves manifested became so much more. Wispy, atmospherically decadent, and melodically diverse, Paradise Slaves creates a record that celebrates their nostalgic ties to the genre, their seasoned experience, and the undeniable connection they have made as musicians.

From the very outset, "For Those Who Watch The Sea," "Aesthetic of Demons," and "A Fever To Defeat" set the stage for an exhilarating sonic journey on Paradise Slaves’ album. Each track resonates with a nostalgic charm, infused with a distinctive metallic eloquence and an unyielding hardcore grit reminiscent of legendary bands like Soundgarden, Alice In Chains, Killswitch Engage, and Fit For An Autopsy. This musical exploration not only pays homage to the iconic sounds of yesteryear but also weaves them seamlessly into the fabric of their unique sound, creating a cohesive and impactful listening experience that captivates from start to finish.

"Dreamers," "With Hell In His Eyes," and "Glass Mountain" deepen the poignant exploration of struggle and hardship. "Dreamers" sets the stage for a contemporary battle, resonating with today’s tumultuous social climate. It vividly narrates the challenging journey of immigration and the quest for identity while confronting the intense pressures brought on by the pandemic. In this context, Paradise Slaves skillfully weaves punchy, thrashy elements with moments of intersecting harmonic tranquility, crafting a sound that is both emotionally evocative and musically unforgettable. Each track resonates with a raw intensity, reflecting the complexities of the human experience of a time filled with grief and uncertainty.

The intensity escalates dramatically with tracks like "Swim North," "How Far From Fragile," and "Somebody To Shove," each featuring impassioned mosh-pit-inspired guitar chugs that resonate with its raw passion, accompanied by electrifying drum beats that drive the energy forward. The pummeling guitar riffs, combined with heart-stirring vocals, create a powerful sonic landscape that draws one deeper into the emotional turmoil of enmity, the struggle to escape one's existence, and the depths of isolation. This compelling experience sets the stage for the final two tracks of the album, leaving a lasting impact that lingers long after the music fades.

"Somebody To Shove" stands out as one of the most melodic tracks on the album, infusing punk and hardcore elements that create a captivating cover experience. The band skillfully blends diverse musical concepts, culminating in the six-minute rock ballad "Always Have, Always Will." This track perfectly encapsulates the deep sadness and pain that reverberate throughout the entire record.

With Hell In His Eyes is a record that transcends mere technical proficiency, showcasing musicians who have turned their dreams into reality despite the challenges they've faced, embodying a message of resilience and unwavering determination in the pursuit of dreams. The atmospheric soundscapes within this record evoke a theater-like vastness, merging seamlessly with its melodic cadence, leaving an inaugural experience that is lush and immersive, leaving an indelible mark for what comes next in this emerging band's career.