Los Angeles area based Cirith Ungol were treading the same ground as Wichita's Manilla Road back in the late 70s and early 80s. America still didn't have an organized metal scene to speak of, and there were disparate groups throughout looking to find their niche. Cirith Ungol ended up being pioneers in what was later called Epic Metal. At the time, it seemed like an anachronistic throwback to the progressive rock era, but with a severe hard rock edge. While it certainly can be called metal, and I do, the music is based in late 70s hard rock recipes. But with an eye to more sophisticated arrangements and some room for jamming. Tim Baker screams with the best of them, and it's apparent Rush were also an influence back then. Obviously the big names of the day, Judas Priest and Black Sabbath, will also be recognizable here. Today, Frost and Fire has achieved cult status as one of the great early US metal albums. From the artwork to the overall sound, Cirith Ungol were many years ahead of the pack. Unfortunate they couldn't keep up the momentum like the almighty Road did.
Ownership: LP: 1981 Liquid Flames. Single sleeve. Those with a sharp eye may have noticed I picked up an original of King of the Dead at the Denver Record Show. Which I plan on revisiting. I also got this one from the same dealer (at a great price), but I hadn't heard it yet, hence its earlier feature. And yep, it's a true first pressing. Incredible fantasy artwork from Michael Whelan. The insert is homemade private press all the way. An amazing artifact from another era.
6/14/22 (new entry)
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