Those with their ears to the underground are more than familiar with one of the most promising hard rock bands of recent years, Freeways. Upon the release of their debut EP, Cold Front (2017), it was love at first listen. A few years later, their debut full length, True Bearings (2020), followed. Admittedly, this release didn’t immediately captivate me in the same manner as Cold Front, but it is undeniably a killer hard rock album with incredible songs and impeccable guitar work. After a few years of hibernation and a tour alongside Swedish prog rockers Hällas, Canada’s resident torchbearers of twin guitar bliss have returned with their sophomore offering, Dark Sky Sanctuary.
Upon first listen, it’s evident how this already incredible band has matured as songwriters and musicians from their last album. Again, this isn’t to put down True Bearings in any capacity, as 99% of today’s hard rock and so called NWOTHM crop couldn’t hold a candle to it. That being said, Dark Sky Sanctuary is a quantum leap forward, boasting tighter musicianship, stronger hooks, and an undeniably retro ’70s aura that makes you want to put on your most faded denim, crack open a cold one, and wander through a forest preserve.
Whereas past Freeways efforts were full fledged hard rock affairs, there’s no denying the metallic edge of upbeat cuts like the opening “Forever Protected” and “Give Em the Gears”. Both tow the line between melody and heaviness ever so gracefully, recalling the youthful vigor of Lightning to the Nations era Diamond Head. The metallized spin on Wishbone Ash-esque pastoralism that is “Private Myth” stands out as well with its galloping riffage and adventurous atmosphere. All three of songs sound like lost NWOBHM curios, excavated from the movement’s earliest days of ’79.
As for the rest of Dark Sky Sanctuary, brace yourself for a smorgasbord of heavy ’70s mania lying somewhere between blues, boogie, and so much more. The hook-laden outbursts of “Can’t Deny Destiny” and “Fortune’s Favorite” recall Blue Öyster Cult at their pop metal peak circa Spectres (1977). The lush title track enchants with whimsical melodies and compelling twin guitars, while the unpredictable “Travelling Heart” comes off as a forgotten Jim Peterik composition not from Survivor, but rather his formative Ides of March days. Not only are the songs written and performed in a purely retro manner, but the organic production of the affair further emboldens their credibility.
When the smoke settles and the 5 and a half minutes Thin Lizzy inspired riff-fest that is “Cracked Shadow” winds down, we’re left with one monster of a hard rock album that’s guaranteed to make the year end lists of this and many other metal webzines. Freeways musical ascent has been an exciting one to watch and hear, and it’s only just beginning. These hard rock disciples are dead set on spreading the word of high voltage twin guitar firepower until even the most kvlt of elitists can shake his or her head in joyous approval. I dare you not to when listening to Dark Sky Sanctuary.
9 out of 10
Label: Dying Victims Productions
Genre: Hard Rock
For fans of: Thin Lizzy, Blue Öyster Cult, Wishbone Ash