The Elder

On their album The Elder, Flametal successfully combine elements of metal and Flamenco music, and create a very progressive and ear-catching sound. When I listen to it I am reminded of when I was a wee lad of 17 years on a school trip in Spain. We were fortunate to see a traditional Flamenco performance with castanets and all. I was praying for a wardrobe malfunction as the voluptuous ladies danced around swinging their dresses and one almost lost it!

If you think you could appreciate a blend of classical guitar and metal influences, then this album should not be missed. To my knowledge, Flametal is the only band to do this. The album is mainly instrumental, chock full of hand claps and very high-energy guitar work. I just learned that Mr. Marty Friedman is a guest here.

The album is however imperfect because of one song that sounds completely out of place. Red Cobblestone is Flametal’s obligatory attempt to throw some Doom metal/Warpigs worshiping into the mix. I must say that it really throws a wrench in the pace of the album. That being said, it can easily be labeled as filler material and while I do enjoy the song, it just doesn’t belong there. This album is more than worthy of a listen.