Best known in metal circles for his work past and present in epic doom band Candlemass, vocalist Johan Langquist has developed a solo project for Johan Langquist – The Castle. Collaborating with some talented Swedish musicians from guitarist/keyboardist Erik Henriksson and bassist Fredrik Isaksson to drummer Stafen Englin and soprano/backing vocalist Emelie Lindquist, these seven songs explore a mixture of classic doom with heavy metal and hard rock influences reaching back into the 70s/80s style for reference.
Evidence throughout the record provides a clear case where Johan explores more of his early influences when it comes to delivery, power, and soulful presence. Ian Gillan of Deep Purple, Ronnie James Dio in all facets of his Rainbow, Black Sabbath and solo careers as well as Tony Marin-era Black Sabbath come into full vision when you hear the scope of his vocals on the slow marching “Castle of My Dreams” as well as the somber “Bird of Sadness”. Soprano support gives “Eye of Death” a resounding push to kick off the record, Erik laying down a Savatage-esque main riff that allows from some chaotic lead lines that are still classically driven in space. Fredrik and Stafen make for an ideal bottom end tempo team – even at these slower to mid-tempo meters, there’s a passionate feel to their parts, making “Where Are the Heroes” that much more uplifting due to their work. The tones and production come from a bigger, old school platform – you can feel the openness of certain sequences even when things are lighter or airy, as “Revolution” illustrates in the early verses to soon climb to those Sabbath-like heavier, mountainous riffs that Johan mirrors in his note choices.
Developing this solo act with different musicians means Johan Langquist – The Castle may have similarities to some of what he showcases within Candlemass, but overall, there’s a broader range of styles explored on the debut album beyond just epic doom. Rest assured this is not a mere project – promises of live shows and a second record are in the works. Given the man’s talents, it’s an ideal presentation that’s worth further investigation (and exploration).