Atkins May Project – original Judas Priest vocalist Al Atkins and guitar virtuoso Paul May. Although this British duo have worked together for decades, this incarnation was formed in 2010 and has released 4 albums, with “Empire Of Destruction” being the 3rd.
The Atkins May Project delivers traditional heavy metal, very melodic and with solid groove and topped off by scorching guitar work. May is without doubt an accomplished metal guitarist, with his thundering big riffs and explosive solos, yet he also displays an abundance of imagination and feel in his compositions. They hit hard but carry dynamics and variety to keep you engaged. And Atkins’ unique, commanding vocals – aggressive and leathery – are their own rumbling instrument. His voice meshes with May’s guitar work so well that it almost seems like the songs were written to compliment his vocals. The lyrics, penned by May and reflecting his Christian faith, offer an apocalyptic vision with a message of hope.
It is no wonder that two such accomplished veterans can pull off the classic British metal sound with such authority. May shreds like the guitar masters of yesteryear and Atkins’ vocals are as gutsy as ever. From the pounding opener “A World At War” to the dramatic closer “Whisper To The Wind”, this duo captures the raw energy that you would expect from such metal pedigree.
Originally released in 2014, Soundmass is pleased to re-issue “Empire Of Destruction” with a 2026 remaster by guitarist Paul May. It also features the incredible cover artwork of world-renowned fantasy illustrator Rodney Matthews. Matthews also pens and plays drums on the (hidden) bonus track “End Of The Earth”, which follows after another bonus track – a cover of Phil Collins’ “In The Air Tonight” (only included on the CD version).
Recommended for fans of Judas Priest, Saint, Saxon, Thin Lizzy, Motorhead, Iron Maiden, etc. – full-blooded, traditional heavy metal!
USA customers: a limited quantity of this CD is available at this USA distro
TRACK LISTING:
World At War
The Midas Touch
Here Comes The Rain
The Darkness Within
Reckless Child
Paranoia
R U Ready
Dog Eat Dog
Whisper To The Wind
Bonus Tracks
In The Air Tonight
End Of The Earth
*2014 REVIEWS*
-“Atkins May Project delivers another winner on its third full length offering Empire Of Destruction.” (85%, AngelicWarlord)
-“Empire Of Destruction is another fun example of classic styled heavy metal, with May’s lethal riffs and gargantuan solos permeating every nook and cranny of these 10 bruising songs, and Atkins’ rough, gruff, tough vocals ever present.” (4/5, Sea Of Tranquility)
-“But if a third time is a charm, then the Atkins May Project deliver another fine helping of guitar-driven classic heavy metal.” (4/5, Dangerdog)
-“May is a fine guitarist, possessing the ability to hammer out rampaging riffs and searing solos, as his vocal mate gargles grittily (but tunefully) to great effect; resulting in an album brimming with the sort of metal anthems that have you punching the air.” (Music Street Journal)
-“Empire Of Destruction’ sprawls forth from your sound system and features several pleasant surprises and sonic thrills along the way.” (Ramzine)
