Title - Cursing The Hydra
Artist - Crimson Glory
For those unaware, Chasing The Hydra marks the long-awaited return of Crimson Glory, delivering their first new studio album in over 26 years and reaffirming their status as one of the most influential bands in American progressive metal.
Formed in Sarasota, Florida in 1983, Crimson Glory quickly set themselves apart with a distinctive blend of melodic heavy metal, progressive structures, and theatrical presentation. Their self-titled debut (1986) and the landmark follow-up Transcendence (1988) established them as pioneers of the genre alongside Queensrÿche and Fates Warning, while vocalist Midnight’s soaring, operatic delivery became a defining element of their sound.
Despite critical acclaim and a dedicated global following, the band’s trajectory was marked by lineup changes and long periods of inactivity, making each return feel like a rediscovery. Now, with three members of the classic lineup - guitarists Jon Drenning and Ben Jackson, along with bassist Jeff Lords - still at the core, Crimson Glory re-emerge with renewed focus and purpose.
The addition of vocalist Travis Wills injects fresh energy into the band while honoring the high standard set by Midnight, balancing power, melody, and range with precision.
1.
Redden the Sun [04:52]
2.
Chasing the Hydra [04:35]
3.
Broken Together [06:17]
4.
Angel In My Nightmare [06:42]
5.
Indelible Ashes [05:17]
6.
Beyond the Unknown [05:05]
7.
Armor Against Fate [04:42]
8.
Pearls of Dust [05:23]
9.
Triskaideka [04:44]
Capturing the essence of what made Crimson Glory unique while updating their sound for a modern audience, the band open their new recording on the melodic rocker Redden the Sun and the heavier title track Chasing the Hydra and then come the strident fare of Broken Together and the robust metal Angel In My Nightmare.
The band’s melodic depth and emotional weight continues onward with the simply banging Indelible Ashes which is in turn backed seamlessly by the rhythmical Beyond the Unknown, the screamtastic Armor Against Fate, the new set rounding out on the tunefully pounding rocker Pearls of Dust, coming to a close on the old Maiden-esque vibe of Triskaideka.
The album arrives amid a major resurgence for the band, with extensive touring across Europe and the U.S., including high-profile appearances at Wacken, ProgPower, Alcatraz, Time To Rock, and Keep It True Legions. More than a comeback, Chasing The Hydra stands as a continuation of Crimson Glory’s legacy - bridging eras, honoring their past, and reasserting their place within the upper tier of progressive heavy metal.
Official Purchase Link
www.theofficialcrimsonglory.com
www.mvdshop.com