- Tony Martin – Thorns
Release Date: January 14, 2022
Anyone who is a fan of Black Sabbath will undoubtedly be aware of vocalist Tony Martin. Now whether you were a fan of his or not is on the table, but for me, Tony Martin was the Black Sabbath vocalist that should’ve been. Tony Martin released five albums with Black Sabbath (Eternal Idol, Headless Cross, Tyr, Cross Purposes, Forbidden). However, after a long come and go relationship with Black Sabbath, Tony decided that it was time to forge his own identity and did so with the release of two solo albums (Right Back Where I Belong and Scream), which makes Thorns his first solo release in 16 years.
Sixteen years later, what is Tony Martin doing releasing a new album? When I heard that this was coming, I was a bit nervous. I have been a long-time fan of Tony Martin, and I have been going to bat for this man for over two decades, and one listen to Thorns reminded me of just why I love Tony Martin so fucking much!
“As the World Burns” kicks the album off, and it comes out of nowhere like a blow to the dome. “Book of Shadows” reminds me of classic Iron Maiden meets TYR era Black Sabbath. The orchestral voices create an ambiance that lays a haunting foundation for Martin’s charismatic and dramatic vocals. “Crying Wolf” (my favorite moment) kept me on my toes with an acoustic, woodsy folk vibe. I kept waiting for it to kick into overdrive, but it always maintained this very sinister yet melodic campfire kind of song. I’m not talking Kumbaya here but a song that you would play to summon things from the other side that are beyond our fundamental grasp. The closing title track exercises Martin’s vocals showcasing his ability to take on each song, like portraying a character in a dramatic one-act play. This song was the perfect album closer. It left little to no resolve. I love when artists do this because it makes me feel like something else will be coming on its heels.
Thorns is something old and something new. The classic, powerful, soulful voice of Tony Martin is still there and stronger than ever. Combined with a modern approach to the music and performances, Thorns is an album that could and should appeal to metal fans, both old school and new. Thorns is not your ‘80s Tony Martin, folks. This is Tony Martin in the now, and he still has the voice, the fire, and the ability to lyrically craft songs in a way that only Tony Martin can do.
About The Author
