EP Review: Forlorn Hope – Valour – Part I

Release Date: 30 August 2024

Review By Glen Parkes

Overview: Forlorn Hope’s Valour – Part I offers a promising foray into heavy metal enriched with dramatic lyrical storytelling. This EP successfully marries the key components of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) with the vibrant energy of power metal, resulting in a unique and invigorating battle metal experience.

Valour – Part I is the first segment of Forlorn Hope’s ambitious second full-length album, Valour. This collection is dedicated to telling the stories of Victoria Cross recipients, the highest military honor in Britain, awarded for acts of extreme bravery and gallantry. The band’s commitment to historically accurate and heavily researched content adds depth and authenticity to their music.

From the opening track, “The Fusilier,” Forlorn Hope sets a powerful tone with robust guitar riffs and driving rhythms. Chris Simpson’s vocals are both commanding and emotive, delivering the poignant lyrics with conviction. Alexander Bishop’s lead guitar work shines throughout the EP, particularly in “Down in Flames” where his solos soar with a blend of technical proficiency and melodic sensitivity. John Roughley’s bass lines provide a solid backbone, complementing the intricate guitar work and adding depth to the overall sound. Danny Kelly’s drumming is precise and dynamic, propelling the tracks forward with energy and intensity.

Highlights for me are

• “The Fusilier”: A strong opener that encapsulates the essence of Forlorn Hope’s sound—melding heavy riffs with narrative lyrics. “Ulysses, 1915”: A standout track for me with its heavy drumming and thick melody and gripping storytelling, a tribute to the Bands storytelling “Greater Love Hath No Man”: A powerful ballad that showcases the band’s ability to blend softness with intensity, delivering a poignant message of sacrifice and heroism.

The production quality on Valour – Part I is commendable, capturing the raw energy of the band while ensuring clarity and balance in the mix. The EP’s soundscape is rich and immersive, with each instrument given its space to shine. The dramatic flair of the compositions is enhanced by the polished production, making for a compelling listening experience. Forlorn Hope’s Valour – Part I is a compelling and promising release that highlights the band’s talent for blending heavy metal with historical storytelling. Their unique approach to battle metal, infused with the grandeur of power metal and the gritty edge of NWOBHM, sets them apart in the UK metal scene. With this EP, Forlorn Hope not only honors the bravery of Victoria Cross recipients but also cements their place as a force to be reckoned with in the world of heavy metal. Fans of the genre will find much to admire in this well-crafted and passionately delivered collection of songs.

Tracklist:

1. The Fusilier
2. Down in Flames
3. Ulysses, 1915
4. Greater Love Hath No Man
5. The Last Ride

Band Lineup:

• Chris Simpson – Vocals, Lyrics, Rhythm Guitars
• Alexander Bishop – Lead Guitars, Composition
• John Roughley – Bass Guitars
• Danny Kelly – Drums