Review: MAULE - MAULE

We live in really exciting times for music. If you long for the days when traditional metal was king, then you’ll be happy to hear that it’s alive and well. It almost feels like it’s 1983 all over again. There’s so much great new music on a monthly basis coming out that it’s sometimes dizzying and a challenge to keep up with what’s going on. I was thrilled to find out about MAULE, a Canadian band from Vancouver, BC whose brand of traditional heavy metal and NWOBHM is a great reminder of the glory days of Iron Maiden, Saxon, and Diamond Head. Their self-titled debut puts a modern spin on the music I loved the most growing up in the ‘80s while maintaining a strong dose of its roots.

Following on the heels of their 2019 From Hell demo, the boys are back with an incendiary full-length album. All five songs from the demo are included on this LP. They sound tighter and more polished here. Released through Gates of Hell Records, MAULE also takes inspiration from the tales of Robert E. Howard, literary father of Conan, Red Sonja, and Kull, as well as from H.P. Lovecraft’s Cthulhu Mythos. The album’s first single, “Evil Eye”, kicks things into motion with powerful guitars, a doomy bass, and groovy drums, setting the tone of the LP.  “Ritual” and “Summoner” are two highlights of the album with their walls of sound, energetic choruses, infectious riffs, and killer guitar solos. The title track (which also happens to be their bassist/co-founder’s last name, Johnny Maule) is relentless with a fiery guitar solo and catchy chorus. The fifth and sixth songs are dedicated to Robert E. Howard’s red-headed heroine: “Red Sonja” and “Sword Woman.” Speedy, thrashy, and riff-heavy, you can picture Sonja wielding her sword and battling monsters and demons. “Father Time” feels ominous and reminiscent of early Metallica with its “Creeping Death” vibe. A definite high point of the record and one of the two longest tracks. “March of the Dead” is a terrific head-bobbing tune, Maiden-like in cadence. The trip comes to an end with the second longest song, “We Ride”, an aptly-titled track where you can picture the quartet riding on motorcycles, wreaking metal havoc on their path with a rallying chant.

MAULE’s self-titled debut is reason to rejoice. Pure traditional heavy metal, unadulterated fun, with literary-inspired lyrics about demons and warriors, a tight-playing band, featuring sensational guitar solos. In short, everything an old-school metal fan could desire. Have no fear about picking up this 9-song set, it’s an awesome ride from beginning to end. Spoiler alert: this one will definitely wind up on my “Best Albums of the Year” list at the end of 2022.   

MAULE’s Bandcamp page: https://maule.bandcamp.com/releases