The Enduring Legacy of Cloven Hoof: A NWOBHM Odyssey
The heavy metal world is abuzz with excitement as Cloven Hoof, a band with deep roots in the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) era, announces their upcoming album, 'Never A Prophet In Your Own Land'. With a storied history spanning over four decades, Cloven Hoof has become a legendary name in the metal community, and this new release promises to be a testament to their enduring relevance.
What's particularly intriguing about this album is its diverse nature. The band promises a rich tapestry of mid-tempo anthems, fast-paced headbangers, epic sagas, and classic heavy metal tunes. This variety is a bold statement, showcasing the band's evolution and refusal to be pigeonholed into a single subgenre. Personally, I find this approach refreshing in a music scene often dominated by niche-specific artists.
The album's title, 'Never A Prophet In Your Own Land', is a thought-provoking choice. It hints at the band's recognition of their own legacy and the challenges of maintaining relevance in their home turf. It's a sentiment many artists can relate to, especially those who have been in the game for as long as Cloven Hoof. This self-awareness adds a layer of depth to the album's narrative, making it more than just a collection of songs.
The vocal prowess of Harry 'The Tyrant' Conklin, who joined the band in 2023, is a key element that has elevated Cloven Hoof's sound. Conklin, known for his work with JAG PANZER, brings a world-class performance to the table, as described by bassist Lee Payne. His versatility and passion are evident in the band's recent works, and his ability to interpret lyrics is truly remarkable. This is a man who doesn't just sing; he tells a story with each song, capturing the essence of the band's lyrics.
Interestingly, the band compares the new album more to their 1989 release, 'A Sultan's Ransom', rather than their immediate predecessor, 'Heathen Cross' (2024). This suggests a return to a more eclectic and varied style, which is a bold move considering the success of 'Heathen Cross'. It's a testament to the band's confidence in their artistic vision and their willingness to explore new directions, even after all these years.
Cloven Hoof's journey began in 1979 as NIGHTSTALKER, with a lineup that included original vocalist David Potter, guitarist Steve Rounds, drummer Kevin Poutney, and Lee Payne on bass. They adopted stage personas representing the elements, a unique touch that added to their mystique. After releasing demos and their debut EP, 'The Opening Ritual', in 1982, they went on to produce a string of albums in the 1980s, including the self-titled 'Cloven Hoof' (1984), 'Fighting Back' (1986), 'Dominator' (1988), and the aforementioned 'A Sultan's Ransom'.
The band's hiatus in the 1990s could have been the end of their story, but Cloven Hoof defied the odds and returned with renewed vigor in the 2000s. Their comeback album, 'Eye Of The Sun' (2006), marked a new chapter, followed by 'Resist Or Serve' (2014) and 'Who Mourns For The Morning Star?' (2017), both on High Roller Records. The latter album opened doors for their first North American tour, a significant milestone in their career.
In recent years, Cloven Hoof has maintained a prolific output, releasing 'Age Of Steel' (2020), 'Time Assassins' (2022), and 'Heathen Cross' (2024). Each album has been a testament to their growth and adaptability, with 'Heathen Cross' receiving particular acclaim. The band's current lineup, featuring the talented Conklin on vocals, is a well-oiled machine, ready to deliver another masterpiece with 'Never A Prophet In Your Own Land'.
In conclusion, Cloven Hoof's upcoming album is more than just a new release; it's a celebration of a band's enduring spirit and their commitment to artistic excellence. Their ability to blend the old with the new, to draw from their rich history while staying relevant, is truly commendable. This album is a must-listen for metal fans, offering a diverse and captivating journey through the realms of heavy metal. I, for one, cannot wait to hear what these NWOBHM legends have in store for us.
