Indy's Archarus and Thorr-Axe Team For Epic Tribute To The Hobbit
By Melissa Marie (D&S Midwest)
The past several years have yielded massive milestones for the Midwest heavy underground. Top drawer releases, North American and European tours, independent festivals (I'm looking at you, Erosion Fest), and thousands of staunchly loyal fans are evidence of a vibrant scene that continues to kick stubbornly against popular trends. We got a glimpse of the best slow 'n' low talent the region had to offer at the first annual Doomed & Stoned Festival in Indianapolis this past November, where acts like Archarus, Conjurer, Drude, Gorgantherron, Thorr Axe, and Void King wowed our humble little gathering.
Now two of these Indiana hitters, ARCHARUS and THORR-AXE, have joined forces to chronicle scenes from J.R.R. Tolkien’s seminal novel, The Hobbit. As Archarus enters its third year and Thorr-Axe nears its tenth, those of us who've been keeping track of their songwriting and performances can't help but marvel at how much they've grown musically. 'The Hobbit Split' (2017), as it has become known, gives us four well-conceived tracks from Thorr-Axe and three from Archarus.
Last year, Archarus guitarist and singer Matt Hannon departed to pursue other goals and guitarist Drew Smith stepped up to helm the trio. As any band knows, lineup adjustments can sometimes bring growing pains, but Archarus has adapted gracefully. Smith's voice is the clearest I've heard on this full-length split, despite a few moments of hesitation. In their three-song offering, Archarus present a stronger metallic edge and seem a bit more adventurous in their material than we've heard previously. Continuing with their self-described stoner-thrash sound, Archarus seek to win us over straight away with "Foehammer," a real headbanger that would fit in beautifully on their debut, 'Render Unto Archarus' (2015). However, the high-energy songs that follow truly capture the spirit of this concept split. "Flies and Spiders" is a must-hear, embracing a fist-raising, true metal sound, complete with a shredding guitar solo. "Erabor" contrasts with a slower, groove-laden strut ideal for a late night driving.
Thorr-Axe / Archarus - The Hobbit Split-Album by Archarus
There's a lot to be said about the flip side, too. Thorr-Axe is a band you just gotta love. Tucker Thomasson formed this outfit as a teenager and, despite the foul metalcore scene in town, this foursome have managed to stay strong. I first caught wind of Thorr-Axe a couple years after 'Wall Of Spears' (2011) was turned loose. At the time, I was captivated, but totally unaware they were an Indiana band. Since then, they've come to be known as "Indiana's High On Fire" -- a well-deserved title at that.
Many identified their following LP, 'Gates Of Winter' (2015), as a defining point for Thorr-Axe with its black metal influence bleeding through the thick wall of riffs. On this split before us, they forge characteristics of heavy riffs and tribal drumming with fast tremolo guitar picking and bleak vocals, craftily landing again somewhere in the middle of doom and black metal.
Thorr-Axe / Archarus - The Hobbit Split by Thorr-Axe
It is practically impossible to pick just one track as a favorite, "Battle of Five Armies" being a prime example. Barely two minutes into this eight-minute closer and there is an eruption of blackened fury that suits Thorr-Axe so well. Intricate guitar melodies, fierce war-like rhythm and heavy riffs ensure this is epic song is one that you will make you want to listen to the whole damn thing all over again. Hints of folk influence are to be found, too, not only in the aforementioned track, but also in "Whispers In the Dark" -- another that's sure to become a fan favorite. This track grows into one large crescendo as Thorr-Axe fearlessly takes us into battle.
One thing to keep in mind while listening to the split is that it's not "based on" The Hobbit. In a sense, this is The Hobbit. Both bands are telling the actual story. Another obvious hint that this is not your traditional split is the how it was pieced together. Sure, many metal bands write songs based on fantasy elements. However, Thorr-Axe and Archarus don't allow themselves to be limited in how they present the recording. You'll notice the tracks play in an order that may seem random, but was surely intentional. The approach from beginning to end is virtually flawless. What started out as a personal project between friends became a fascinating record that metal fans all over the spectrum can appreciate and enjoy. Tucker Thomasson recently told me he was very happy with the end result. He better damn be.
Follow Archarus and Thorr-Axe and get the split LP here and here.
