Iced Earth

Something Wicked This Way Comes (Century Media)
by Martin Popoff

Having released a career retro (of sorts), having moved the band to Indiana, and having lost long-time guitarist Randy Schawver, the ever-dedicated Jon Schaffer found himself at a bit of a crossroads. But have no fear, his next move rules. The Iceman whips up a sturdy new sledge, edging even further from prog into straight meat-and-potatoes metal with meticulous grooming. Much of this carries the same castle-shrouded tone as its proper predecessor, but there are also a few speed metal highballs on board, perhaps mirroring the tense times Schaffer has seen as of late. Trivia note: The whole record was supposed to be a concept album, but this idea finally got pared down to the final three tunes, which clock at 20 minutes, form the Something Wicked trilogy. Spot the Maiden bass break in closer “The Coming Curse” and win a cheese wedgie. Uh, one other thing: I can’t shake the initial impression that this whole thing, or at least large parts of it, were done with a drum machine. Damn, I’d like to ask him and clear it up, because it’s just bugging me. All I can hear is those dead uniform high-hats. I hope I’m wrong, cuz I love Schaffer’s deep metal mania.
(www.centurymedia.com)