AEON GODS – “King of gods” (2024)

In 2022 the German band AETERNITAS announced that they will split up. At the same year, keyboardist Anja and vocalist Alex of that same group formed the Symphonic Power Metal alternative that is called AEON GODS. Since then they introduced themselves with two singles, titled ‘The beginning’ and ‘Ereshkigal’, before revealing their debut “King of gods” whose release date is finally upon us.

The band follows a musical path similar to bands like SABATON, HAMMERFALL and all the like, meaning direct compositions that are epic and bombastic while all choruses are very hymnic and prime for sing-alongs during concerts. The differentiation lies in a more cinematic approach and a theme revolving ancient mythological gods, with the debut focusing on the Babylonian legends. So the two masterminds took a step back and reintroduced therselves with a refreshed image and sound, declaring ready to conquer the Power Metal world as the whole project is very ambitious and clearly aims high. Are they on the right track? Let’s see.

The first thing that is clear is that AEON GODS is a step up from AETERNITAS, they took it to the next level if you will. After listening to the album many times I have come to the result that if “King of gods” was the group’s fourth or fifth album, it would be just enjoyable. Considering it is a debut, it is rather impressive. That is because lately we have many bands following a similar sound direction and AEON GODS do not add something new to the mix, at least not to a big decree. On the other hand they lay their foundation which is a very solid one. After all, starting a new band with a unique theme, costumes etc. requires extreme care in many aspects so the scale turns effortlessly to the positive side.

Here are my favorite moments: “Tablet of destinies” has excellent keyboards that quality-wise are on par with KAMELOT and is a fast song that even houses blastbeats. “Enlil’s command” has many fast parts as well but the lead guitars are what shines the most. It has a very epic chorus, among the best of the record and the bridge is a nice touch that makes the composition even more interesting. “Sun-god” is also on the top by being very heavy and pompous. As you can see I like it when the band plays faster and heavier, they do a really good job in those parts.

What would I like from them going forward? Build on that epic, cinematic sound and further enhance their identity. I like that their songs are not limited to a three minute duration, on the contrary they are between four and six, which allows them to incorporate various ideas like the bridge of “Enlil’s command” I mentioned above. That way they can showcase the catchy ingredient that bands of that style have, but also be more adventurous which is what I believe those others lack.

AEON GODS rose and asked for our attention. Based on their introduction I heard the call and found something very promising that hides potential. Their next few records will be very important as they will prove whether this potential will be exploited and materialized to something unique and grand. Isolated, “King of gods” is another enjoyable entry that guarantees a good listen within a genre that is definitely feeding its followers good recently. It still though belongs in a niche category, meaning that fans outside of this may not be the best target audience. This is what the future entries may or not resolve. Score is indicative with debuts, so this one is to leave room for the potential of their next albums first and foremost. For first try, a job well done.

75/100

Pavlos Pavlakis

100: Godsent

90s: Excellent

80s: Very good

70s: Good

60s: Can be enjoyable

50s: Uninspired

40s: Bad

0s -30s: Unlistenable