It's been 7 years since the world last heard from Pyramaze and since then the band has gone through some serious lineup changes which no doubt contributed to the gap between "Immortal" and their new album "Disciples of the Sun." The first lineup change was that vocalist Matt Barlow left almost immediately after "Immortal" was recorded to return to Iced Earth. Barlow has since left Iced Earth again. Former Tad Morose singer Urban Breed was brought in to replace Barlow. Then the biggest blow to the band was the exit of guitarist and main songwriter Michael Kammeyer. Leaving with Kammeyer was long time bassist Niels Kvist.
Most bands might have called it a day at that point but the remaining members convinced long time producer Jacob Hansen to join the band on guitar (and bass for that matter). Then before even recording with the band Urban Breed was out. The best thing that happened, in my opnion, was the hiring of vocalist Terje Harøy, who really is the key to "Disciples of the Sun" being the amazing release that it is. But what about the songs? Despite losing a key songwriter, the songs on this album are all amazing and this album could have been a "best of" Pyramaze album!
Songs like "The Battle of Paridas" (one of the year's best songs), the title track and "Back for More" all have more hooks than a tackle box. "Genetic Process" has a really cool chord progresion during the chorus that makes it instantly memorable. Pyramaze fans have already heard the first single/video "Fearless" which showcases Harøy's vocals. But really every song showcases his vocals! Harøy has one of my favorite voices. Strong, clear, very powerful, great range and an incredible tone. "Perfectly Imperfect" is the first slower song but I wouldn't call it a ballad. Similarly, "Unveil" is slower but has a cool evil riff before the double bass drumming of Morten Gade Sørensen kicks in. The key to "Unveil" is a change of key late in the track. Perfect!
I could go on and on about "Disciples of the Sun" but really people need to listen to it. If you are a fan of bands like Symphony X or DGM, you need to check out Pyramaze. If there is any justice in the world, "Disciples of the Sun" will get Pyramaze out of the shadow of those bands and any others. A great album from a band that really overcame adversity.
