HEATHEN, the veteran thrash metal band from the San Francisco Bay Area, has just released a cover of Iron Maiden's iconic track, 'The Prisoner', to celebrate the legendary band's 50th anniversary. This isn't just a simple tribute; it's a meticulously crafted homage that showcases Heathen's deep respect for the genre and their own unique style. The cover is a testament to their skill and dedication, as they pay homage to one of heavy metal's greatest bands while adding their own twist.
The track, mixed and mastered by Chris 'Zeuss' Harris, is a lively and energetic take on the classic, with a modern edge and seasoned orchestration. Heathen's guitarist, Kragen Lum, explains the choice of cover, "'The Prisoner' was an easy choice for us to cover, with its heavy intro, uptempo verses, catchy chorus, and classic instrumental section. We added a few touches to 'Heathenize' the song while staying true to what made it so great when it was first released in 1982."
This cover is a perfect example of Heathen's ability to blend the past and present, paying homage to the classics while still pushing the boundaries of their own sound. The band's reverence for the subject material is evident in every note, and their modern twist on the song showcases their evolution as a band.
The release of this cover comes just in time for Heathen's extensive North American tour, which includes opening slots for Metal Church and headlining dates with Void. The tour is a testament to the band's enduring popularity and their ability to connect with fans across the globe.
Heathen's new deal with Napalm Records is also a significant milestone for the band. Their recent release of the title track from Laughing Dead's first demo, 'Never A God', is a nod to their past and a reminder of their roots in the Bay Area thrash metal scene. Heathen is often credited as one of the leaders of this scene, alongside Exodus, Testament, Forbidden, Death Angel, and Vio-lence.
Despite several lineup changes over the years, Heathen has remained true to their core, with David White on vocals and Kragen Lum on guitar. Lum has also filled in for Gary Holt in Exodus whenever Holt was touring with Slayer, showcasing his versatility and dedication to the metal community.
Heathen's debut album, 'Breaking the Silence', sold over 100,000 copies worldwide, and their latest album, 'Empire of the Blind', hit the Top 40 charts in Germany and Hungary, as well as charting elsewhere around the globe. The band's ability to connect with fans and create a lasting impact is a testament to their talent and dedication to the metal genre.
In conclusion, Heathen's cover of 'The Prisoner' is a must-listen for any metal fan, and their tour is a chance to see one of the genre's true pioneers in action. With their new deal with Napalm Records and their enduring legacy, Heathen is set to continue making an impact on the metal community for years to come.
