Straight out of Chile comes a band to remind us what Metal is all about. On 2019's "The Siege," their sophomore release, Capilla Ardiente deliver smart, bold songwriting that puts the music first with no apologies and no posturing. Just a full-length album of four killer, epic-length songs with Thrash Metal tendencies.

"The Siege" is a concept album continuing the storyline from their debut, "Bravery, Truth And The Endless Darkness," but it's not the lyrics that will keep me coming back for repeat listens. Capilla Ardiente use the tried-and-true formula of choice riffs, arranged and transitioned perfectly throughout each piece. Every in-song change to a new riff or movement feels like an intelligent decision, reinvigorating the song and the listener's interest.
The music is heavy because of its nature, not because the band have a collective chip on their shoulders or anything to prove; the Metal is simply in the clay they use to sculpt. The production on this ready is excellent, but the element that brings it all together into greatness is vocalist, Felipe Plaza Kutzbach. The Metal community needs to recognize this guy as a major voice and talent in our genre. He brings elements of Rob Flynn, Mike Patton, Warrel Dane, John Bush, and occasionally Mike Patton; Capilla Ardiente channel classic Machine Head, Nevermore Dane, Sevendust, mid-era Anthrax, Trials, Candlemass, and Testament.