Multi-intrumentalist Andrew D’Cagna offers a fresh batch of metal with Ironflame’s fifth effort, Worlds To Conquer. Andrew did not record the album entirely on his own, as guitarists Jesse Scott and Quinn Lukas recorded their own leads. However, Andrew’s musicianship and ear for recording is in top form, as Worlds features tight songwriting and instrumentation. Album opener “Night Closes In” is a gripping track with its driving percussion and mid-paced galloping riff. The vocalists bear a slight semblance to Bruce Dickinson at times, but it certainly not mimicry. The baroque guitar harmonies add a gothic mood to the track, as if one is running through the woods from a ghoul or vampire. The track concludes with blast beats, which is a pleasant surprise. “Legion of Doom” is a faster paced track with intricate, classical guitar harmonies and leads, akin to Andy LaRocque’s work in King Diamond. “Dynasties Fall” has a slower, galloping beat with sorrowful guitar harmonies, which fits the song’s subject matter of a kingdom collapsing. The song’s midsection features sweeping guitar leads that accentuate the track’s epic, yet bitter feeling.
“Where Cauldrons Burn” is a slight stumble after the previous three tracks, but is notable for its grooving midsection and soulful guitar lead.”Shadow Slave” places things on track particularly due to D’Cagna’s soaring vocals. It is a blend of rasp and clear that gives the track an dark edge. The guitar solos are fiery, sophisticated and technical, as one would expect on a power metal album. Andrew speeds things back up on “Crimson Shores” which features a sense of urgency similar to the earlier tracks. The half measure tempo change during the guitar leads is seamless as Quinn and Jesse unleash arpeggios and sweeps with precision. “Valhalla Is Calling” is a triumphant track, as one would expect considering Valhalla is the place for fallen warriors to feast with Odin. The title track aptly concludes the record with its slow tempo and hammering riffs.
Worlds To Conquer is notable for its guitar work, production and cohesion. Jesse and Quinn are an outstanding guitar duo that play well off one another and provide that classical flair to liven up the songs. The songs on this record average around five minutes in length, but there are few lulls or drag time. This is attributed to the guitars and Andrew’s penchant for writing dynamic songs. The songs flow well, save for “Where Cauldrons Burn”, which is not a bad track, but placed right after the stronger “Dynasties Fall.” The production is crisp, sharp and balanced. The mix captures each instrument, even during the bursts of sonic bombast.
Ultimately, Ironflame did it right on Worlds To Conquer. This is quality American power metal that will appease fans of the sub-genre. Heck, metalheads in general should give this album a try. Its eight tracks and 41 minute length is another plus as the album does not wear out its welcome. Ironflame could conquer the power metal world with this one.
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