Think back four decades; just try it. You may recall that Al Atkins fronted Judas Priest during those ancient times and even penned one of the band’s all-time classic songs: “Victim of Changes.” Not bad, eh? Though his stint with one of Birmingham’s finest heavy metal units is more than notable achievement to include on one’s resume, it’s not the only thing Atkins has done with his musical career, which also includes the release of six solo albums and work fronting Holy Rage. A few years back Atkins was an integral part of the Atkins May Project debut album Serpent’s Kiss, which also featured the considerable talents of guitarist Paul May (hence, Atkins May). Said album was solid, meat and potatoes heavy metal with a British blues underpinning, which pretty much all the classic UK heavy metal acts have, Black Sabbath and Judas Priest included.
And that brings us to sophomore Atkins May Project album Valley of Shadows, which is no major departure from its predecessor, but is nevertheless a more cohesive, better produced (also the work of Paul May) effort. Much like the act’s name would imply it is the mid-range, rough ‘n crusty Akins vocal approach and some pretty versatile, goddamn electric riffs and leads from May that constitute the guts of the new long player. Atkins’ vocals are somewhat of acquired taste, although I happen to find his gritty approach a much-needed point of distinction, not to mention soulful in a broad sort of way.
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