Nine years after forming ASHES OF ARES, Matt Barlow and Freddie Vidales return with their third full-length album “Emperors and Fools”. The writing process began almost immediately after their previous album “Well of Souls” was released, and showcases a true collaborative effort between the two, with ideas originating from one or the other, then evolving and being refined to their final form.
Scheduled for release on January 21st via ROAR! Rock of Angels Records (Grave Digger, Mystic Prophecy, Steel Prophet, Mad Max, etc.), “Emperors and Fools” sees the duo take the darkness and aggression from their previous album “Well of Souls” to a higher echelon. It once again features Van Williams (Ghost Ship Octavius, ex-Nevermore) drumming on every track, and Tim Ripper Owens on the eleven-minute long epic “Monster’s Lament”. The daunting artwork is done by Kamil Pietruczynik, and will keep you guessing what each piece represents in an evil chess board.
“Emperors and Fools” bridges the gap between traditional metal and thrash, with an intense journey that drives the listeners to the edge of their seats. A much heavier effort than its predecessor, it’s guaranteed to be present in many lists of best albums of 2022.
Just like he did when the band’s previous effort, “Well of Souls” was released, Sonic Perspectives collaborator Rodrigo Altaf caught up with singer Matt Barlow to get his view on the writing and recording process, the current state of our divided society, touring plans and anything else pertaining to ASHES OF ARES. For more interviews and other daily content, make sure to follow Sonic Perspectives on Facebook, Flipboard and Twitter and subscribe to our YouTube channel to be notified about new interviews and contents we publish on a daily basis.
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