Product Description
Content Introduction Almanac, the new band formed by former Rage Against the Machine member Victor Smolski (guitar), has released their second album, "Kingslayer"! Like their debut album "Tsar" (2016), this concept album features three singers and a dramatic development with orchestral elements at key points! A heavier and more direct melodic power metal album than their previous work! Victor Smolski was born in Minsk, the capital of the former Soviet Union (now Belarus), the son of the renowned composer Dmitry Smolski. Having received an exceptional musical education from a young age, he led his own heavy metal band, Inspector, to live performances in West Germany, which led to interactions with German musicians. Eventually, he based himself in Germany, working as a studio musician and producer. Amidst all this, he was invited to join the German progressive metal band Mind Odyssey, where he had the opportunity to participate in three of their albums. Later, his talent was recognized when he worked as producer, engineer, and guitarist on Rage Against the Machine's "Ghosts" (1999), and he joined the band. Victor released powerful albums such as "Unity" (2002) and "Soundchaser" (2003), successfully bringing progressive and technical elements to Rage Against the Machine. However, due to musical differences and discord among the members, he left the band in 2015. He then founded Almanach. This almanac inherits the concept of the album "Lingua Mortis Orchestra feat. Rage," released in 2013 under the name Lingua Mortis Orchestra feat. Rage. The first album, "Tsar," released in 2016, was recorded with the participation of the Orchestra Barcelona Philharmonia and female singer Janet Marchevka (vocals), who also participated in that album. This work is by no means centered on the orchestra, but rather features melodic power metal centered on Victor's heavy guitar. A distinctive feature is the participation of singers with different styles, such as David Readman (vocals) of Pink Cream 69 and Andy B. Frank (vocals) of Brainstorm, to match the story. After releasing their debut album, they performed over 50 live shows in 10 countries, and having gained confidence as a band, they began recording in April 2017 with three singers?Janet, David, and Andy?and newly joined rhythm section members Tim Rashid (bass) and Athanasios "Zacky" Tsoukas (drums). The result is "Kingslayer." This album is based on the concept of murdered kings, and the lyrics tell real stories of figures such as King Dhatusena of Sri Lanka in the 5th century and King Henry VIII of England in the 16th century. Musically, they have utilized their live experience, and the album is packed with heavier and more direct melodic power metal numbers than their previous work, with gorgeous and dynamic tracks that also incorporate orchestral elements. The album is a masterpiece that fully showcases the talents of the genius musician Victor as a guitar player, composer, and arranger. [Includes Japanese liner notes/lyrics translation] [Members] Victor Smolski (guitar/keyboards) Andy B. Frank (vocals) David Readman (vocals) Janet Marchevka (vocals) Tim Rashid (bass) Athanasios "Zacky" Tsoukas (drums) [CD Tracklist] 01. Regiside 02. Children of the Sacred Path 03. Guilty as Charged 04. Hail to the King 05. Losing My Mind 06. Kingslayer 07. Kingdom of the Blind 08. Headstrong 09. Last Farewell 10. Red Flag Media Reviews and More Almanach, the symphonic power metal band led by former Rage Against the Machine, Victor Smolski, is releasing their second album! (C)RS