Get ready for a heavy metal journey back in time as Iron Kingdom, the Vancouver-based legends of BC's underground metal scene, gears up to rock Prince George once again. With a new album, 'Shadows and Dust', under their belt and a cross-Canada tour in full swing, this band is bringing their unique brand of old-school metal to the Knox Performance Centre on July 21st.
The Sound of Iron Kingdom
Iron Kingdom's sound is a refreshing blast from the past, drawing inspiration from the iconic heavy metal acts of the 70s and 80s. Their music is characterized by soaring vocal harmonies and guitar solos that will have you headbanging and air-guitaring along. It's a raw and energetic experience, unapologetically traditional, and a true celebration of the genre's roots.
A Diverse Fanbase
One of the most fascinating aspects of Iron Kingdom is their ability to attract a diverse range of fans. From extreme metal enthusiasts who grew up with the likes of Iron Maiden to those who don't typically listen to heavy metal, the band's unique style has a broad appeal. Lead vocalist and guitarist Chris Osterman believes this is due to their approach, which blends the traditional with more modern influences, creating a sound that is both familiar and fresh.
Visual Storytelling
Iron Kingdom's visual aesthetic is just as intriguing as their music. The band incorporates ancient and medieval imagery, drawing inspiration from films like 'Gladiator' and 'The Lord of the Rings'. This visual storytelling adds another layer to their performance, creating a unique and immersive experience for their fans.
Impact on Local Scenes
Osterman notes that Iron Kingdom's style has had a positive impact on the local metal scenes in the communities they perform in. Their accessible sound brings in new listeners, opening them up to the heavier local bands. It's a testament to the band's ability to bridge the gap between different metal subgenres and create a more inclusive scene.
A Fresh Start
Iron Kingdom officially formed in 2011, but the members had been playing together for years under a different name. The adoption of the new name marked a fresh start for the band, a commitment to releasing music, touring, and treating their craft as a professional business.
Canada's Got Talent and Beyond
The band's appearance on Canada's Got Talent in 2012 was a memorable moment, earning them unanimous approval from the judges. However, their journey on the show was cut short, leaving them in a strange limbo. Despite this, Osterman believes the experience was worthwhile, raising awareness for the band and providing them with the opportunity to perform in front of a large audience.
A Favorite Stop
Prince George holds a special place in Iron Kingdom's heart. After more than a decade of touring across Canada, Osterman describes Prince George as one of their favorite stops, citing the energetic and excited crowd as a highlight of their tour.
New Album, New Influences
'Shadows and Dust', Iron Kingdom's latest album, showcases some exciting new influences. Osterman highlights the increased influence of Dio on this record, a band they've always loved but whose impact is more pronounced here. There's also a stronger presence of Judas Priest, with some chromatic guitar work that adds a unique twist to their sound.
The Prince George Show
If you're lucky enough to catch Iron Kingdom's show in Prince George, you're in for a treat. Osterman promises an exciting opener and a memorable finale, with their bass player delivering the iconic line, 'Are you not entertained?' to kick off the encore.
So, mark your calendars, metalheads! July 21st is the night to witness Iron Kingdom's powerful performance and experience the magic of old-school heavy metal.
