ENCHANTER - Defenders Of The Realm REMASTERED CD (Pre-Order)

Yes, it is finally happening. Arkeyn Steel Records is re-releasing the “Defenders of the Realm” compilation CD, which includes the complete recordings of the heavy / epic / power metallers Enchanter from Jackson, Michigan, US.

Released in February 2008, “Defenders of the Realm” marked the second title in the Arkeyn Steel catalog. Originally limited to 1000 copies, it sold out rapidly and has since become one of the most sought-after ASR titles to this day.

The compilation includes both of the band’s demo tapes: “Defenders of the Realm”, issued in 1988, and “Time Gone Past Nevermore”, released one year later (1989). Both serve as fine examples of heavy / epic / power metal, delivered with a distinctive technical approach.

“Ethereal Quarter”, the band’s last recording, is also included. Finalized and mixed in 1990, it never received an official release until now. In this eight-minute masterpiece, Enchanter offer an epic and mystical work, presented in a complex yet emotional manner, clearly pointing toward the direction the band would follow in the next chapter of their saga, when they changed their name to Longings Past.

It is crystal clear that the band’s mastermind, guitarist James Shellberg, was channeling his broad artistic vision through Enchanter, delivering epic and powerful music shaped by near-progressive structures, inspired by early-era Fates Warning and similar acts. The music included in this reissue is far more important than a mere “demo discovery from the vaults”; it stands as a piece of fine epic art.

The new reissue features a brand-new remaster by Kostas Scandalis (Infinity Studios, Thessaloniki).

Kostas Athanasoglou redeveloped the booklet from scratch; the complete set of lyrics is included, together with extra photos that remained unreleased until now. Chris Papadakis (Forgotten Scroll Zine) wrote the liner notes.

We would like to dedicate this new pressing to Richard L. Copeland (drums) and Jimmy Delamater (bass), two Enchanter musicians who have passed on to Valhalla. And to all of you who have kept the Arkeyn Steel fire burning all these years. Hail!

For fans of FATES WARNING (Arch era), MANOWAR, CAULDRON BORN, MANILLA ROAD, MAJESTIC RYTE & OMEN!