For a new band to grab attention -especially in today’s saturated heavy/power metal scene, where new acts and albums surface daily- is an achievement in itself.
To then build a core of devoted fans who respond to their debut with such enthusiasm that it leads to a vinyl repress is a second milestone.
And for that same band to maintain its quality and keep the attention and loyalty of its listeners with a second -always tricky- release, marks them as undeniably noteworthy.
Yes, we’re talking about American outfit OWLBEAR, who made waves with their 2023 debut “Chaos to the Realm” and now return just two years later with “Feather & Claw”.
OWLBEAR took risks on multiple fronts. Taking their name from the iconic D&D monster, they dared to lean heavily into the thematic lore of the legendary role-playing game—a move that might have marketing appeal but also limits lyrical scope and depth.
They dared to play straight-up, no-frills heavy metal.
They dared to speak directly to the underground scene with nothing but their music and honest spirit.
And for all that daring, Alone Records stepped in to support and reward them, giving them the push needed to reach broader recognition.
As these lines are being written, the band has secured a spot at the Stormbringer Metal Festival in Worcester, Massachusetts, alongside headliners ARGUS and TWISTED TOWER DIRE, sharing the stage with STYGIAN CROWN, POSSESSED STEEL, LADY BEAST, SERPENT RIDER, and many more. This will be their first live show of the year and a chance to perform material from “Feather & Claw”, an album that truly stands out, without even trying.
It’s as if Katy Scary (vocals, guitars), Leona Hayward (bass), Jeff Taft (ex-ADAMANTIS), and Estee Slaughter (drums) can effortlessly conjure high-grade metal.
The album kicks off with “As Arrows Hail”, a full-throttle, RUNNING WILD-style anthem that grabs you by the throat. “Shadow of the Dragon” follows with speed, rhythm, and catchiness, setting the stage perfectly for the powerful, anthemic “Crawl From the Carcass” which walks in the footsteps of classic American old-school heavy metal.
Then comes “Altar of Earth”, erupting like a storm, a galloping track bursting with power. “Song of the Grey Witch” keeps the momentum going, shifting into a darker, more epic tempo reminiscent of ETERNAL CHAMPION and TWISTED TOWER DIRE. The tracklist charges on with “Hawkriders of the Wastes”, channeling RIOT V vibes, where melody fuses seamlessly with power—great guitar work, stellar vocals, flawless choruses and layered harmonies. A standout track, one of the album’s best.
True to its name, “Wild Shape” continues the aggressive crescendo of “Feather & Claw”, while “Devastation Be My Name” storms in with a relentless barrage, leaving no doubt: this is one of the most energetic, enjoyable, and finely crafted albums of the year.
Just before the curtain falls, “Bloodsilver” delivers one of the album’s most affecting moments—personally, a favorite that brings JUDICATOR to mind.
Finally, “The Fall of Netheril” closes the album with a hint of melodic prog/power finesse—another killer track that stands out.
I’ll admit, the second half of the album spoke to me more but that doesn’t mean this sophomore effort from OWLBEAR lacks balance or strength. On the contrary, it’s a fantastic, cohesive, and thoroughly enjoyable album from start to finish; more intricate than their debut and, in my opinion, a clear step up.
So if you enjoyed “Chaos to the Realm”, get ready to be blown away by this glorious return from the ever-beloved OWLBEAR!
“Feather & Claw” was released on May 16th by Alone Records on both CD and LP.
Check the discussion about the album in our forum pages.
You can order both the CD and LP here.
