Brocas Helm is, in my honest opinion, one of the single most underrated acts in metal. I still vividly recall when I first learned about these guys. My brother and I shared an Xbox 360 and had a copy of the 2009 game Brutal Legend. That game introduced me to many aspects of metal, including key figures, aesthetics, and – most importantly – more bands. Brocas Helm’s “Cry of the Banshee” was included in the game’s soundtrack. It was an instant classic for me, with its tapping riff and chilling vocals. 

I enjoyed that song so much, I thought the rest of the album must be just as good. So, I searched for the rest of the album, and lo and behold, I found it online! And my original thought about the album was proven correct! 

First off, let’s talk about the cover art. The art on the original 2004 release of the album is alright. It’s an open coffin against a black background with silver and green for the logo and details. However, the re-release of this album in 2011 and 2020 both use the above artwork. I absolutely love this artwork! It stays true to the original color palette while adding more with the use of red. The inclusion of the knight and horse also leads to a better use of space. It’s much more immediately recognizable and visually appealing. 

I’ve already touched upon the opener, “Cry of the Banshee”, but the other tracks are just as great. The title track is intoxicatingly animated in its tone and riffs. “Skullfucker” is a quick-paced, slightly more punchy track. “Blood Machine” has a sense of high-flying energy to it, while adding some deeper vocals and incredible bass lines. “Helm’s Deep” is slower, but keeps you engaged with its simple and interesting riff work. “Time of the Dark” opens with a sick bass solo before going into a galloping metal anthem. I honestly could go on. 

This album seems to be developing a sort of cult classic status, as of the writing of this post. Considering when this was released, Brocas Helm might have been lost among some other releases. To be fair, 2004 marked the releases of Mastodon’s “Leviathan”, Lamb of God’s “Ashes of the Wake”, and Exodus’s “Tempo of the Damned” (one of my favorite thrash albums ever). But, Brocas Helm seems to be getting more recognition. I know Starside Relics released a “Defender of the Crown” patch in 2022 (which I, unfortunately, didn’t get). Hell’s Headbangers even sold a few new Brocas Helm shirts in stock too. So, I think more people are slowly discovering, or re-discovering, this album, which to me is fuckin’ fantastic! 

I think I can sum this album up in one word – fun. It is one of the most fun metal albums I’ve ever heard. There are so many parts that make this album so enjoyable in my opinion. It’s got creative riffs, great vocals, and a heavy yet energetic tone. Not to mention its use of various instruments and enjoyable solos just add to the overall experience. “Defender of the Crown” is enjoyable fun from start to finish. I’d argue that it’s one of the best albums of the 2000s. It’s easily one of the most underrated.