Now this is a comeback that greatly interested me the moment I heard it was on the cards. Their last album Into the Mirror Black was an album I discovered through friends many years ago and was disappointed that the band split a couple of years after its release. So aided with new found vigour and a modern production Sanctuary re-launched themselves and what a re-launch it is.
“Arise and Purify” opens with much of the same feel as Future Tense did on the Mirror Black album; sitting somewhere between Megadeth, Exodus and Queensryche. Sanctuary offer riffs, melody and well written songs that should satisfy all those with a varied taste as well as a leaning towards the heavier side to music. Warrel Dane has retained the vocal capabilities he displayed on the original releases and it retains the highs and smooth which make this album so accessible.
“Exitium”; being a great example of Dane’s vocals and the musicianship of the band does wonders for me. “Question Existence Fading” is driven by a strong riff which descends into an atmospheric middle. There are so many strong songs on this album and I would urge people to get hold a copy of this album (even if you borrow one).
I love the way the instrumental “Ad Vitam Aternam” blends into the title track “The Year he Sun Died”. Give it a chance as Sanctuary really aren’t a one trick pony and there’s pretty much something on this album for most metal fans who like something that bridges the gap between thrash and death metal. It’s not extreme metal but it is however very well thought out, written and performed. I for one am thankful for a band like Sanctuary.
Meathook Mike, HMS
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