Hypnotizing heavy metal: That’s how Canada’s Spell describes themselves. This description has never been truer than on their third album, Opulent Decay. On their debut, The Full Moon Sessions (2014), Spell played in the straightforward NWOTHM style with galloping riffs and emphasis on melody. On their sophomore album, For None and All (2016), they started leaning towards retro hard rock in the vein of Flight and Hällas. Opulent Decay sees Spell exploring their sound even further with a vast array of influences.
The first half of Opulent Decay is as dreamlike as the album’s cover art. Flanged guitars, ethereal vocals, and lush synthesizers dominate on songs such as “Psychic Death”, “Primose Path”, and the title track. They sound like Rush on a heavy dose of Beatles infused psychedelia. Speaking of The Fab Four, I can’t help but notice similarity between the closing of “The Iron Wind” and the classic riff to “I Want You (She’s So Heavy)”. I don’t know if this was coincidental or not, but you know what they say: Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. These first five tracks do a solid job creating atmosphere and mood, but don’t sound strong as individual compositions. One slowly melds into the other without distinction. Aside from being added to my chillout/go to sleep playlist alongside Buckethead’s Colma (1998) and the assorted works of Jon & Vangelis, I don’t see myself revisiting these songs.
Thankfully, Spell switches things up for the second half. It begins with my favorite song, “Dawn Wanderer”. This track is folksy and pastoral. It’s filled with reflective lyrics and twin guitars reminiscent of Wishbone Ash. After this moment of calm, Spell takes a complete 180. The remainder of Opulent Decay is spent conjuring the ancient spirits of Eric Bloom and Buck Dharma. From the unsettling riffing to the eerie harmonizing chorus, “Deceiver” is dripping in occult mystery which screams BÖC. This formula continues on “Imprisoned by Shadows” and the closing “Saturn’s Riddle”. I prefer this dark, nightmare side of Spell as opposed to the mesmerizing, dream side displayed at the beginning.
Spell isn’t at the cutting edge of retro revival bands. However, I’d recommend Opulent Decay to any old school metalhead or rocker for at least a spin or two. If nothing else, Opulent Decay offers a new, unique take on the sacred sounds of the 70s.
6 out of 10
Label: Bad Omen Records
Genre: Heavy Metal/Hard Rock
For fans of: Rush, Blue Öyster Cult, Ghost