Savage Lands Army of Trees CD Review

Seasons Of Mist are doing their part to support and preserve the environment as they’ve signed the activist organization/band, Savage Lands and are set to release the band’s debut album in 2025. Why is that a big deal and what exactly does that mean? Savage Lands is a US-based 501 © non-profit that has preserved several thousand square feet of the endangered Costa Rican rain forest. The organization was founded by current Megadeth drummer Dirk Verbeuren and a former bandmate of his, Sylvain Demercastel. The band/organization is set to unleash its debut album “Army of Trees” this upcoming February and 100% of the royalties will support these ongoing preservation projects in Costa Rica. This organization appears to run deep, they’re really making a dent and are doing some really great work, touching the lives of many. 

The debut release of Savage Lands features a lot of guest appearances from notable artists such as John Tardy (Obituary), Alissa White-Gluz (Arch Enemy), Andreas Kisser (Sepultura). There are a ton of others that guest also, it almost feels like a who’s who or well let me say this, I’m reminded of the “Hear N’ Aid album from the 80’s. There’s a good and bad side to this; the good is, you know the album is great, the bad is it’s a bit all over the place and inconsistent to some degree. Every track tends to feature someone different singing/playing so it’s definitely a different experience. 

Overall, Army of Trees leans towards the “Core” side of the spectrum whether it’s Metalcore, Hardcore or Deathcore. There are also several Pop elements in a lot of the tracks on this album which helps to give it a bit more of a palpable feel to those who don’t get off on the heavier stuff. Don’t freak out over the Pop comment, we’re not talking about Swift stylings here, I mean more in a Lacuna Coil/Evanescence sort of way. My top track is “The Last Howl” which features my guy, John Tardy from Obituary, it’s a mid-tempo burner that just bulldozes its way into your psyche. I’m also quite fond of “Ruling Queen” which features Alissa White-Gluz on vocals. This is probably the best I’ve heard her sound. I haven’t been a big fan of the Arch Enemy stuff, but I’m one of the fans that preferred Angela. Either way, Alissa’s involvement here really stands out. Another great track is “Black Rock Heart”, this tune features Chloe Trujillo, Kai Uwe Faust and Dirk Verbeuren. This is the opener, and it sets the tone nicely in that several tracks here feature strong female presence vocally. 

There are ten tracks in total to sink your teeth into on Army of Trees, I strongly recommend having a listen and supporting the organization’s/band’s cause. The Metal community needs more support like this, let’s all join in the fight and shine a light on this wonderful cause.

~Black Angel