This week, I helped storm the castle at Sister’s Bar as Castle Rat entered the city. In the enchanted city, this small bar was filled within minutes of them opening the door. The place was a mix of old-style building and classy decor with a touch of demonic symbols. Joining Castle Rat was a local favorite, Blue Heron. The night was set for an exciting time of entertainment and debauchery.
First up for the night was Blue Heron. They are from Albuquerque and formed seven years ago by guitarist Mike (Chav) Chavez and vocalist Jadd Shickler, with a vision of heavy desert rock that is as deep as the burning sunsets of the great New Mexico desert itself. They were joined by a killer bassist, “Big Steve” Schmidlapp, and a drummer, Ricardo Sanchez. They have a unique sound with an experimental stoner heavy metal beat.
Their set started with “Everything Fades” and “Marigold,” which was followed by “We Breathe Darkness” from their 2024 album Everything Fades. “Marigold” and their closing song, “Head Like a Hole,” were newly released singles this year. In October, they are heading on a nine-day European tour through Germany, Netherlands, and Belgium.
If you want to listen to this band and get a better idea what they are all about, look up these following links.
Castle Rat is a medieval fantasy heavy metal band from New York City. Their mission is to expand and defend “The Realm” from those that seek to destroy it. The Rat Queen is joined on this mission by The Count, Plaque Doctor, and The Drud. They are being followed by their arch nemesis, The Rat Reaperess. They take you on a journey seeking out the Rat Reaperess, which involves a battle. In a heavy metal doom style, they transport you in time and space, each song building to a climax of the battle. As in all stories, good versus evil prevails, and “The Realm” is safe again thanks to the Rat Queen.
The performance starts with selection from their recently released album The Bestiary, with “Phoenix I,” “Dragon,” and “Wizard” all laying out a story that is unfolded on stage while they are singing. They are a very visual band, as well as heavy doom rock for your ears. From the appearance of the Rat Reaperess, The Wolf, and a sword fight, the ending is better to experience than to explain, but I am here to tell you the Rat Queen overcomes the fate of the Rat Reaperess.
“The Book of Beasts” tour is crossing the nation, and if they come to a city near you, I suggest you go see them and experience their journey to save “The Realm.” Here are a few links to their music and their story:
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