Harpazo - "The Crucible" Metal Opera featuring members of Royal Hunt, Shadow Gallery, Fates Warning and other guests

[Harpazoofficial]

 

Hi everyone!!!

Jessica Erin here representing Harpazo. Recently, Rockshots Records Label released "The Crucible" by a super-group formed by guitarist Marc Centanni and Producer / Songwriter / multi-instrumentalist Gary Wehrkamp (Shadow Gallery / Ayreon). Featuring DC Cooper (Royal Hunt) and Mark Zonder (Warlord / ex-Fates Warning). Their goal was to create a science-fiction thriller rock opera called “The Crucible”.

"The Crucible" is a concept album that explores a world in turmoil where technology and prophecy collide. The story unfolds across various epic tracks, weaving a dystopian tale of revolution, assassins and a charismatic leader with a dark agenda. The narrative primarily takes place in Rome, Jerusalem, New York, and Washington DC offering a rich backdrop for the complex and intense musical arrangements. It is based on the story of Revelation and is a dark but spiritual journey that goes through the prophecy's of the bible.

Featuring elements of progressive/power metal with symphonic and industrial undertones, and a hint of Celtic influence, the album features four 8+ minute monster progressive epics. The music was meticulously planned to compliment the lyrics and story.

We want to get the word out about the album and if you had any thoughts or questions.

The album came out on June 28th, 2024.

Featuring members:

DC Cooper – Royal Hunt

Gary Wehrkamp – Shadow Gallery / Ayreon

Mark Zonder – Fates Warning / Warlord

Les Carlsen – Bloodgood

Rey Parra – Deny the Fallen / Sacred Warrior

Christian Liljegren – Narnia

Jennifer Eckhart - Jennifer K Eckhart & the Stained Glass Road

Michael Drive Lee – Barren Cross / Human Code

Niklas Kah – Lord of the Lost / Flaming Row

Lee Lemperle – Outside the Wall

Bruno Sa – Operation Mindcrime

Enzo and the Glory Ensemble band.

Our single hit youtube on May 15th and it's called "I AM GOD". https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dVxA6Lu1-VQ

Our second single hit youtube on June 28th called "Ichor". https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PIJ4obmISiw

Music video for "I Am God" was done by Wayne Joyner and Dave Letelier (Creed, Ayreon, Seven Dust, Kansas, Dream Theater)

Our album trailer - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KdTkKL1F-mo&t=7s

We've been featured in several rock magazines/sites and here are some quotes:

"...The Crucible will be jostling for my album of the year honours come the end of year "- Sea of Tranquility

"I Highly Recommend Giving It The Attention It Deserves—It’s A Remarkable Achievement!" - My Global Mind

"This Is Christian Metal's Les Miserables" - Heaven's Metal Magazine

"The Crucible” by Harpazo is a breathtaking journey through sound and story, punctuated by stellar performances from a roster of accomplished musicians. With each listen, new layers unfold, inviting the listener to immerse deeper into its intricate world. Anyone labeling this album as anything less than a masterpiece would be severely mistaken." - Lots of Muzik

"It Immediately Becomes Clear That The Foundation Underneath The Endeavor, Constructed By Marc Centanni Together With Shadow Gallery’s Creative Force Gary Wehrkamp, Is A Pristine Blend Of Melodic And Progressive Rock With Towering Symphonic Elements." - Headbanger's Lifestyle Magazine

"Succeeded In Making Me Feel Like I Was In The World He Created, Like I Was On The Stage Of An Opera Being Played." - MetalOpera.org

"Simply Stated, Harpazo- The Crucible Is Going To Kick Your Ass, Wash Over You Like A Waterfall, And Send You Away Ready To Get In Line To Ride The Adventure Again." - TMMC

"...This Is A Truly Formidable Release..." - The Metal Resource

Our Platforms:

Streaming services (Spotify/Apple etc) - https://lnk.to/DQbZKb3s

Our website: https://harpazomusic.com/

https://twitter.com/HarpazoMusic

https://www.facebook.com/Harpazomusic

https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC4yYfRcXw9PygLX41bkLlMg

https://www.instagram.com/harpazo_music

[heavyharmonies]

I've given it one full listen through, but I need to give it more. As with many progressive concept albums,I sometimes have a harder time getting into them due to all of the different vocalists. For me personally, I find the cohesiveness suffers somewhat.

That said, the tracks with D.C. Cooper doing vox I particularly enjoy.

[Harpazoofficial]

Absolutely fair. Gary and Marc would tell you it takes atleast 2-3 listens. If it helps, check out their facebook page as they have a Visualizer Story Experience if you want to read the lyrics and be dazzled by story pieces and artwork and things like that. And you will be a part of the magic of the listening party!

There will be an official launch of this experience on youtube in the near future. It is truly one of a kind we all believe!

https://fb.watch/tf0-W1BJ-O/

[auslander]

Sounds epic! I will check it out. Just having Rey Parra on it is enough to get me interested.