Skyraid EP Kingdom of Thall - EP REVIEW

Date: June 22, 2025

Review by: Tiago Fixe

Skyraid released their debut EP Kingdom of Thall May 24, just in time to blast it over the summer with a cold beer and friends. This EP is a great time to listen to and is a must have on your playlist for camping, road trips, or late-night drives. If you’re into classic heavy metal, Dungeons and Dragons, or movies like The Never-Ending Story, or Labyrinth, this EP is a must listen.

Skyraid takes the classic 80s heavy metal sound and makes it fresh, with influences of classic death metal and operatic vocals. The EP was mixed and produced by Skyraid guitarist Graham Downey, and mastered by Taha Khan, with drums and vocals being recorded by Cailen James at Studio 23.

The first two songs follow a hero who saved the Kingdom of Thall from an evil king and becomes king himself. The hero falls victim to the crowns curse, becoming evil and throwing the kingdom into chaos again. The first song on the EP “Prelude” reminds me of the floating text at the start of Star Wars with how it sets up the story. The atmospheric sounds feel like you’re locked in a dungeon, while vocalist Blaise Van Humbeck delivers a haunting voice over. “King of Thall” fleshes out the story, exploring how absolute power corrupts absolutely, while having catchy riTs, melodic solos, and a memorable chorus.

“Haunted by Sin” follows the same pattern as “King of Thall” with bleak lyrics contrasting the upbeat instrumentals. The main theme of the song is even if there’s hope – evil will rise again. This song also has a stand-out guitar solo. The first half is more technical, nicely contrasting the second half which is simpler and more melodic.

Another great solo is in “Contamination.” It’s simple and catchy with more technical licks mixed in, ending in an epic harmony between both guitars. “Contamination” is the heaviest song on the EP, this time matching the lyrics about chemical warfare. Blaise shows an incredible vocal range, pulling oT high operatic vocal runs, followed by low death metal growls.

Blaise continues to show oT his vocal prowess in “Eyes of an Angel” and “Legend of the Starbeast.” The flashy guitar solos and impressive vocal runs are supported well by a tight rhythm section. The drums and bass are simple throughout the EP but serve the songs perfectly.

Skyraid’s current lineup is Blaise Van Humbeck on vocals, Graham Downey on lead guitar and backing vocals, Earl Alminana on drums, and Howard Cade on bass. You can catch their next show June 5, at the Osborne Taphouse.

Purchase the album here and find more here