D C

Have been following Zeal and Ardor since 2022 when they played with Meshuggah in Manchester. Ever since that day, I have been hooked on the band's music and followed their work. The latest album, Greif, takes not just a departure from their eponymous album, but a departure from popular expectations from the group. This album allows the band to coalesce and write creatively, equally, and expressively. This is not an album for fans, but for the band sonic exploration into undiscovered territories, mirroring earlier creations from Birdmask. Bands like Dodheimsgard, Arcturus, Sigh, and Lux Occulta have joined the Avant Garde metal movement, and they remain some of my favourites to this day. It took me some getting used to, but I quickly found the gems hidden within it and could appreciate it more with each listen. I'm grateful that they decided to take the plunge in their creative endeavours, away from the mechanical scrutiny of metal fans, to attract new ones and entire loyal ones. Mad respect for that.

A friend of mine recommended this album to me, and I gave it a listen while on a motorbike ride. I can definitely say that it was one of the best rides I've ever had because, my God, this album really really nails it. The band sounds superb after all these years of playing, and they have definitely earned a place in my collection over the years as one of the metal gods of the music scene. All of the artists shine in this particular release, and the recording, production, and technicality of the music is so pristine and well-executed that it will definitely earn a place in 2024 as one of the top albums of the year, if not all time. I'm so glad that my friend recommended this album to me, and they also have such a dynamic sound with a lot of thematic gems throughout the album. Thank you Judas Priest for this amazing work of art!