Rise of the Tyrant

Rise of the Tyrant is a record on which ARCH ENEMY detonated slashing twin guitars and Angela Gossow’s fierce growl over precise rhythm. Pushing further the modern aggression established up to the previous album, the songs keep a clear outline even at high speed, and the strength of the melody makes the violence stand out all the more. Gossow’s vocals gain menace, and the band’s expression becomes more ferocious and dramatic. From the overwhelming charge of “Revolution Begins” to the aggression of “Blood On Your Hands” and “I Will Live Again” and the shadow of “Vultures,” the album deftly balances ferocity and construction. A classical interlude like “Intermezzo Liberté” adds a stately depth to the work. Showing the possibilities of melodic death metal in a large sonic image, it is a highly regarded, full record standing as one peak reached by Gossow-era ARCH ENEMY.