If there’s one thing to be absorbed from the music of Priestess, it’s that Heavy Metal still has the power to liberate. While histrionics-heavy Metalcore and cheaply crafted Radio Rock can be found clotting iTunes playlists with a fragmented notion of what “Metal” should sound like in 2009, Priestess’ sweeping scapes are an excellent diversion.
In the rendering of the Priestess style, frequent use of the robust ‘70s-style riff is integral. Instead of overreaching their ambitions, the group uses said riffs to craft rich and crunchy songs that don’t stop to meander into pointless asides or flex self-gratifying guitar solos. The Canadian quartet’s non-instrumental firepower comes in the form of lead guitarist Mikey Heppner’s vocals. Eschewing abrasive screams for full-bodied singing and enormous calls, Heppner hammers at words during verses and stretches every inch of strength from his cords for his choruses.
They play with GWAR at Bogarts. Read Reyan Ali's interview here.
