Formed nearly a quarter of a century ago, Twisted Tower Dire is one of those bands that never made it big, but has always been likable and consistent in their music. This Virginia-based act has been rather quiet since their last release, Mark It Dark (Cruz del Sur Music) in 2011, but now they’re back with a much-anticipated new record. Their sixth full-length album, Wars In The Unknown (No Remorse Records), boasts about how this quartet can still accomplish solid and entertaining Heavy Metal.
The brief atmospheric intro to the first track, ‘The Thundering’, is just long enough for the listener to take a deep breath before diving into the bombastic glory of TTD. As if marching into battle, the feeling of pride and honor washes over you as the band triumphantly thunders into their first song.
The direct and motivated vocals of Jonny Aune strike directly at the heart. The group vocals, which recur on multiple of tracks, really rouse the listener to immerse themselves in the band’s ‘pump up’ attitude. Their compelling, Classic Metal tone will remind you of the greats like Iron Maiden and Helloween.
The album continues on with many spirited songs telling stories about power, war, and fear. You can almost smell their leather and denim as guitarists Scott Waldrop and Dave Boyd present their heavy, anthem-like melodies. Their galloping guitars sing freely and their searing solos intensify each number. ‘Light The Swords On Fire’ really accentuates the cheesy, violent, and entertaining lyrics. Any song that can pull off group vocals chanting, “hey” is a definite win.
Their vibrant Viking vibe is highlighted on numbers like ‘And The Sharks Came Then’ and ‘A Howl In The Wind’. The grit and substance could remind the listener of the legends Saxon or the popular Amon Amarth. The whine, vibrato, and vast voice of Aune provides a grandiose flavor to each track.
There’s a fearless vitality and pleasing pace to the overall record. Their spunky edge and almost adolescent energy gives them this likable and approachable presence. This is an ideal album to roll down the car windows to and crank up. There’s nothing overly complicated about it, but the choruses are catchy, the riffs rip, and the songs are just simply fun. So give it a listen, turn the volume up, and start feeling good!
6 / 10
RAGIN ROSIE