Arch Enemy – ‘Blood Dynasty’

Arch Enemy (along with In Flames) were responsible for what is probably the finest live show I’ve seen in the last year, and this album confirms that they still have the fire and hunger of a band who still have a lot to give.

Grotesque figures with crowns in ornate attire, surrounded by flowing red elements. Text: "Arch Enemy" and "Blood Dynasty." Dark mood.

I’ve always loved Arch Enemy, in all of their guises, from the beloved Angela Gossow era, through to the records that included her replacement, Alissa White-Gluz. They play aggressive Heavy Metal with plenty of “death growls”, as well as a healthy dose of clean vocals. One of the toughest tasks in Metal is to retain all the heaviness and aggression a band is renowned for, while still producing melodic songs to appeal to a wider audience. In July 2024, the band dropped a new single ‘Dream Stealer’ that came from nowhere, and was the first indicator that a new album was in the works.

The band’s previous record ‘Deceivers’ was well received, but there were a few grumblings from fans that it was too far removed from the band’s roots. This new album hits the ground running, and I’m certain that fans will love this record, regardless of their preferred era.

From opening track ‘Dream Stealer’ you get the impression that this band is still pulling out all the stops in the studio, and as things progress it’s clear there’s not a bad track on this collection, from the ultra-heavy ‘Illuminate The Path’, through to second single and title track ‘Blood Dynasty’, which grinds along relentlessly and pummels the listener into submission.

That’s not to say that Arch Enemy are frightened to try something a bit different occasionally. ‘March Of The Miscreants’ does exactly what it says on the tin, and is almost like a military march all wrapped up with the biggest chorus on the album. ‘Vivre Libre’ is a cover version of a Blaspheme song and contains an entirely clean vocal from White-Gluz, which is just phenomenal, and a timely reminder of how good this vocalist actually is.

Songs like ‘A Million Suns’ and ‘Paper Tiger’ don’t stint on the bands traditional Thrash Metal sound, while ‘Liars And Thieves’ is a headbanger of the highest order, and will be feeding mosh pits for many years to come. ‘The Pendulum’ is another fine song that has a touch of the theatrical about it, almost crossing over into the Power Metal genre.

Arch Enemy (along with In Flames) were responsible for what is probably the finest live show I’ve seen in the last year, and this album confirms that they still

have the fire and hunger of a band who still have a lot to give.

Reviewer: Graeme Wright

Label: Century Media

Genre: Heavy Metal

Issue Reviewed In: 110

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