Black Majesty – ‘Oceans of Black’: Power Metal Glory at Full Sail

Review By Ian Walker

Black Majesty return in full battle gear with their eighth studio album, Oceans of Black, released via Scarlet Records on June 20th, 2025. Veterans of the Australian power metal scene, this Melbourne-based quintet have delivered a masterclass in classic metal heroism, melodic might, and unrelenting energy. With soaring vocals, virtuosic guitar duels, and thunderous rhythm work, this is an album forged in fire and destined to stand shoulder to shoulder with the genre’s greats.

From the first strike of “Dragon Lord,” it’s immediately apparent that Oceans of Black is not here to hold back. With a galloping riff, blistering double-kick assault, and frontman John Cavaliere’s crystalline vocals taking flight, Black Majesty waste no time in asserting their dominance. It’s a furious opening salvo—one that throws down the gauntlet with pride and power.

“Set Stone On Fire” follows hot on its heels with a tighter melodic hook, showing the band’s knack for crafting memorable choruses that lodge themselves in your head. Cavaliere’s voice channels Bruce Dickinson-esque theatricality while Clinton James Bidie and Hanny Mohamed’s twin guitar interplay is simply world-class—equal parts aggression and elegance.

Then comes “Hold On,” which takes a more anthemic approach, a fist-in-the-air call to resilience that builds to a rousing, arena-sized chorus. It’s in tracks like this where Oceans of Black shows its emotional core—balancing grandeur with grit. The album’s title track, “Oceans of Black,” lands midway through with a melancholic yet empowering tone, tackling themes of fear and corruption with masterful pacing and cinematic scope.

Fans of Iron Maiden and Dio will find much to love in “Raven,” a dramatic mid-tempo burner with Gothic overtones and storytelling lyricism. “Lucifer” burns with dark swagger and a groove-heavy riff that shows the band’s versatility, while “Only the Devil” offers speed, precision, and a menacing edge.

The production is pristine and powerful—mixed by Ricardo Borges and mastered by the legendary Jens Bogren (Opeth, Arch Enemy, Helloween), every track brims with clarity and thunder. The mix gives breathing room to the album’s explosive instrumentation while allowing John Cavaliere’s vocals to truly shine.

Tracks like “Hell Racer” and “Got A Hold On You” ramp the intensity back up, each laced with aggressive rhythms and battle-ready choruses. “Here We Go” lives up to its name—unrelenting, energetic, and designed to ignite the live crowd. It’s a high-octane anthem that reminds us why Black Majesty remains one of Australia’s most enduring and dynamic metal forces.

Closing track “Ghost In The Darkness” is a haunting finale. It blends progressive elements with that classic power metal sheen, and ends the album on a reflective but resolute note—an atmospheric exhale after the storm of sound that came before.

Lyrically, Oceans of Black is thematically rich. It sails through tales of inner conflict, divine battles, betrayal, and the triumph of the human spirit. Yet through the darkness, there’s always hope. As the band states, “hope and strength are always just behind the corner for those who dare to reach for it.” That sentiment is embedded in every note, every lyric, and every defiant scream on this record.

Visually, the album art by Clinton James Bidie (also the band’s guitarist) captures the mythical, elemental tone of the album perfectly, while Aldo Requena’s layout ties it together with professional flair. For collectors, the limited vinyl edition will be a must-have.

In a time when power metal often walks the line between nostalgic homage and creative stagnation, Black Majesty continue to evolve. They honour the greats without imitation and forge their own path through the flames. With Oceans of Black, they’ve delivered one of the strongest power metal albums of the year.

Final verdict:
At a time when many bands tread water, Black Majesty are still riding the waves with swords raised high. Oceans of Black is a triumphant, emotionally charged album that’s both a gift to longtime fans and a perfect entry point for newcomers to the band. A power metal album with purpose, polish, and passion.

Tracklist – Black Majesty: Oceans of Black

1. Dragon Lord – 4:27
2. Set Stone On Fire – 4:40
3. Hold On – 5:01
4. Raven – 5:17
5. Lucifer – 4:38
6. Oceans Of Black – 5:01
7. Only The Devil – 4:19
8. Hell Racer – 5:03
9. Got A Hold On You – 5:07
10. Here We Go – 5:20
11. Astral Voyager – 4:48
12. Ghost In The Darkness – [time not listed]

Comment from Jace Media Music:
Oceans of Black is Black Majesty at their boldest. A top-tier power metal release full of heart, fire, and unforgettable moments. Highly recommended!

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