Bloodstone - Ecstasy of Battle

Anyone who has been following the North American epic metal scene on Instagram in recent years will undoubtedly be familiar with Peter Salatellis. The young guitarist and songwriter has demonstrated on numerous occasions via this platform that he is a highly talented and promising musician who is definitely worth keeping an eye on.

With Bloodstone, Peter is now making the music he is passionate about. This is possible because the Canadian with Greek roots has found four comrades-in-arms in Matthew Georgalos (lead vocals), Anthony Keramarios (guitars), Dimitri Bobotsis (bass) and Jesse Ku (drums), with whom he can tastefully ride into battle.

The opener of the debut EP Ecstasy of Battle already has what it takes to become a real hit in the underground. Even though I usually refrain from name-dropping, it's obvious that Bloodstone has heard a song or two from Eternal Champion, Gatekeeper or Possessed Steel. Against this backdrop, a considerable influence from Manilla Road or Omen is naturally evident. This band has done its homework!

A big plus point is Matthew's strong, varied vocals, which can easily compete with the big names of epic NWOTHM. Considering that he will only turn 22 in October, this is particularly remarkable. The same goes for the whole band, which is made up of young people in their early 20s – anyone who says our scene needs new blood is spot on with this quintet from Montreal.

Besides the vocals, the excellent guitar work stands out – Peter and Anthony delight listeners with terrific melodies. The five-minute instrumental “The Sword of Spartacus“ is especially noteworthy here: the amount of feeling with which the two six-stringers are played is astonishing. You involuntarily close your eyes and dream yourself away to distant worlds and times. If you're lucky, you'll meet Spartacus himself and can tell him what a great monument five guys from Canada have erected to him in 2025.

It makes sense that “Shadow of the Serpent“ was chosen as the pre-release track: Dimitri and Jesse's rhythm section lays down a solid, wonderfully thunderous foundation, which Anthony and Peter skilfully refine with their enthusiasm and artistry. Of course, Matthew once again proves his class – after the opener, this is the second hit that belongs in every epic metal playlist.

Not to be overlooked is the great sound, which is no surprise, as none other than Jeff Black (Gatekeeper, Spell) is responsible for the mixing and mastering. There are probably few debut EPs that sound this good. Bloodstone also impresses visually thanks to the cover artwork by Alexandros Vasilopoulos and the layout by Michael Greylord.

In short: Bloodstone make a big statement with their first release. One can only hope that these talented guys stay together in this constellation and will soon treat us to their first full-length album. Until then, everyone should listen to Ecstasy of Battle on repeat.

Bloodstone on Bandcamp: Click here.