Heretic |Shape Of Things To Come |Candlepower Records

Formed in Los Angeles during the early 1980s, Heretic became part of the Southern California metal scene through their aggressive live performances and appearances alongside Metallica, Megadeth, Motörhead and Armored Saint. Their 1986 contribution to Metal Blade Records' "Metal Massacre VII" compilation, featuring "Impulse", led to their debut EP "Torture Knows No Boundary", followed by first full-length album "Breaking Point". After a period of inactivity and the formation of Reverend by former members, Heretic returned with "A Time Of Crisis" (2012) and "A Game You Cannot Win" (2017). Their history was also documented in the 2023 film "Don't Turn Your Back, The Story Of Heretic". The current lineup features Brian Korban and Stuart Fujinami on guitars, Angelo Espino on bass, Sean McCormick on drums and Julian Mendez on vocalss.

"Shape Of Things To Come" brings together twelve tracks of traditional heavy metal and thrash, with changes in tempo, melodic guitar passages and an occasional acoustic touch. Brian Korban's guitar work provides the main musical direction, with aggressive riffing and lead passages forming the core of songs such as "Up In Flames", "Sins Of The World" and "Spill Blood". "Reckoning" introduces a slower approach before moving into heavier territory, while "Follow You Over The Edge" adds another dimension to the album's closing stretch.

Julian Mendez handles the vocal duties with a forceful performance once again, supported by a rhythm section that maintains the necessary drive throughout. Produced by Steve Watson at Watson House Studios, the album has a modern, well-defined mix that gives the guitars, bass, drums and vocals their proper place. "Shape Of Things To Come" deals with the musical territory Heretic have occupied throughout their history, combining traditional heavy metal songwriting with thrash influences and a few changes in arrangement. The result is a straightforward return from a band with a long history in American metal.

|7.8