I wanted to give Grant a huge virtual hug in the interview when he mentioned this song to check out. It is exactly one of those hidden gems in a fantastic album that just makes you grin stupidly when you hear it. An instant favorite of UTA of mine after hearing it. To have Tank check it out was a total treat because I knew he would still find great stuff to talk about and the lyrics video was a really cool bonus. Awesome reaction Tank and thank you to Grant for the suggestion!
I'm going to go out on a limb and say this is the best metal song of this century. It's essentially perfect. Certain Opeth tracks might give it a run for its money, but gawdamn this is phenomenal.
When you finally get a chance to listen to Apex and Abyss in order, this epic battle scene will be elevated even higher for you. To put a story like this over two albums and for the songs to be great AND tell the story is just crazy good.
Unleash the Archers is one of those bands where I hear a song like "Apex" and I think 'This is their best song'. Then I hear "Northwest Passage" and I think 'This is their best song'. Now I am listening to "The Wind that Shapes the Land" and I am thinking 'This is their best song'. These guys just crank out one banger right after another. Just found your channel. Love it- keep it up.
I must have listened to this song at least a hundred times in the first month I had the album, and it's still the best song they've ever written as far as I'm concerned. Nice to see it finally getting some recognition among reactors.
If any band should be worthy of taking the reigns from Iron Maiden it is definitely UTA. It's just impossible for bands to reach that level of a Iron Maiden or Metallica these days. These guys deserve all the love and support.
@@JohnThornburgh I’ve been saying this myself for the past year! If these guys keep on the trajectory they’ve laid down with Abyss and Apex, they really could be the new Iron Maiden.
This reaction had me grinning like an idiot because it is easily my favourite on the album. The way they write these songs, from lyrics to riffs and timing is just on another level. So when you combine that with the fact that they're just genuinely good people? Not hard to see why they've become my favourite band, and i'm so stoked to see them live when all of this insanity is over. I would highly recommend listening to 4 particular tracks one after the other, because there's a connection that a lot of people miss. Earth and Ashes, Legacy, The Wind That Shapes The Land, and Carry The Flame. I think you'll find the connection. Btw, if you ever go back to the full roadie life? I think we know the band you need to be working for.
@@TankTheTech Funny enough, there seems to be a perpetual vacancy at that spot. If you do get the gig, just watch out for this nerdy looking guy with a .45 who does the track & field officiating thing.
Meant to add I am so excited that my wife and I, at age 53 btw, are going to see UTA live in Orlando FL in September. It's been a long time since I put tickets to a show on my refrigerator door, but that is exactly where they are.
Both Chase and Elizabeth (Charismatic Voice) have done chats with Brittney and there's a few tidbits that would interest you. She played Rugby all through high school and most of university. How more badass can you be, eh? That really got Chase's attention as both him and Brittney played the same position, scrum half. We could see how it was a struggle for Chase to keep the interview on music and not drift off on a Rugby chat. Brittney writes the story line, the lyrics and the vocal melodies. In Apex and Abyss, the growls from Grant usually represent the Matriarch while Brittney sings the Immortal role. Sometimes Brittney also sings the Matriarch with a noticeable change to a more menacing tone. It's an interesting storyline where the woman is pure evil, with her story sometimes being sung by a man, while the story of the male hero is sung by a woman.
To me, UTA seems to capture everything good from classic rock, and modern metal, without any of the negative attributes that each genre inherently has.
Dude, are you serious? This is one of my favorite songs from them, and I heard recently it was one of Brittney's favorites. I'm super hype, there are so few reactions to their non video songs. So good
@@hansemanuelsson9005 Carry the Flame and Afterlife I actually listen to mre frequently, but this song has such a storyline climax that I was really anticipating
It's like an opera where the story is told through the lyrics. The whole album is like that of course but it becomes really clear in the last part. I remember when I first listened to Abyss I couldn't make out most of the words but I could still feel the story!
same! i still can't help but imagine an epic drangon ball z - like fight going on with rocks exploding and huge power ups haha. Song gives me chills every time!
So I actually had very little exposure to Unleash the Archers prior to this video of yours which I came across earlier this week. I had only ever seen their rendition of Northwest Passage (which is fantastic, but nothing like THIS epic thing). After seeing this, I listened to The Wind That Shapes The Land by itself several times, then went and tracked down both the lyrics and music for both Apex and Abyss and spent a couple hours going through the whole story, which was an EXCELLENT use of my time. Those two albums tell quite the epic tale. I also have tracked down every other reaction video to The Wind That Shapes The Land that I could find on TH-cam. It's safe to say I've gotten a bit obsessed with this tune. However, doing so has *really* made me appreciate you, man. Nobody else I watched had anywhere near the depth of analysis of WHY this song is so good and works so well that you did. Your expertise really makes your videos special. Appreciate that BIG time.
Man, thank you for the kind words, and yeah, these guys are not only fantastic musicians, but wonderful story tellers as well. This is just top shelf metal right here.
Hey Tank! I discovered this band with your Awakening reaction and I felt in love with the band...while power metal still the same way that was 20 years ago (wich is not a bad thing) this band is new fresh air to the genre, and musically their are beasts! Waiting your reaction to "Cleanse the Bloodlines", you will enjoy it, I promise!!! Greetings from Spain and thank you for your work and passion in every reaction!!! Cheers man!
Welcome to the fold Tank. Always makes me happy when I see someone have the "aha" moment and realize the brilliance of UTA. They are a very special band to me and many others. We all need to do our parts to help them get the recognition they so richly deserve.
dunno why I'm watching this reaction so late lol. I swear I teared up at the exact same moment you did when I first heard this song. I also remember where I was when it first hit me: the light train, of all places. But it was great to headbang with you and seeing how happy you were made me happy!
Agree 100% with what you said. I am pretty sure the tight tie in between the lyrics and the music is the nerdy genius of Brittney. It is beyond belief that the band members still have to have day jobs!!
Love your reaction and I 100% agree of how special this band is. BTW, their album Abyss is nominated for a Juno award(Canadian Grammy) which is so well deserved!!! This album is a masterpiece!!!
I’m so happy to hear this was Grants favorite on the album, it’s mine too! When she hits the hook, and belts out “I am the wind that shapes the land” it hits me so hard I love it
@@TankTheTech True, it makes it harder for you to show the special qualities you specifically bring to the scene; that said, you had plenty of interesting stuff to say regardless, so If you need to do it in the future, I don't think it will be too much of a problem. (P.S. check out more Alestorm and Gloryhammer!)
Back a year later to tell you how much I still love this. Takes me back to my first play through of this album. This song still gets the water works going.
Man it was so nice seeing you pick out parts of the music you like. Also, I fucking love this song and I was so amped to see you hear that middle section!
Tank, my man! First, very, very happy that you're reacting to this song! I've heard this song probably hundreds of times since it got released last year -- and I _NEVER_ get tired of hearing it! And yeah, Grant is 1000% right for recommending this song. 🤘🏹🤘 Second, sometimes it's not about the videos, gear, or live performances -- sometimes, its about sitting back, relaxing, and letting a song give you the ear candy you desperately need. Edit: And Tank, in case you didnt catch it, when Brittney sings the lyric "And watch as I drain the light from inside," at about 11:00, it's literally a reference to The Matrix, as Neo jumps into Smith, and destroys him from within, thus freeing himself from Smith's power. The Immortal does the same thing to the Matriarch, albeit in a slightly different fashion.
Dude I got you brother! The first time I heard this song and she hit that note after she one the battle I had tears in my eyes. Her voice combined with the music hit me straight in the heart!!! Since finding uta I've not been this excited about music since the first time I listened to Iron maiden when I was a teenager.
Found UTA through reaction videos and I’m absolutely hooked. Bought the last 4 albums and haven’t listened to much else for the last several weeks. This song and Soulbound are my favorites off the new album but I can listen to it all from start to end. Tank, I enjoyed your reaction to this video and how appreciative you are of a their musicianship and vocals. Can’t wait for more UTA and don’t think you can go wrong with any of their songs. Test Your Metal is a fun song, Northwest Passage is a great cover, Cleanse the Bloodlines is a fantastic song with an intense video, and General of the Dark Army has lots of great harsh vocals that you love.
This is my favorite song of all-time. I'm not young, or musically naive. And, it took many, many, listens to get there. Even if I'm alone, it's #1 for someone out there.
Enjoyed your interview w/ Grant! I wish the other guys In the band would do more interviews. I can never can get enough of hearing from these guys! (See if you can land an interview with Andy or Scott next). Great job on your review of this epic song! Keep up the good work! :)
This band, man. They're special; there's nothing I don't love about them. And I will keep suggesting "Cleanse the Bloodlines", I'm 100% sure you'll like it.
I’ve been trying to get a good friend of mine to listen to this band by telling him this song is like a dragonball z fight set to music. Great reaction dude.
Beien a fan of UTA since 2012 when they released their 2nd album "Demons of the Astrowaste" , seeing the fanbase grow so much over the years has been really amazing, everything you said is 100% spot on they deserve every fan they get and 50x more.
I consistently find myself coming back to your reaction of this song cause it still makes me giddy watching you react to it cause it's my fave from them.
My favorite part of this song is when she hits that high note, a second before she hits it that note fades in lower in the mix and then mixes with her main vocal line. It's just a nice little touch that adds so much.
Always happy to see you love UtA - they are certainly a band that I took a while to find! And like someone else has mentioned, Brittney does have her own channel where she goes into depth about the songs and such :) Can’t wait to see more!
Again I watched your latest UTA reaction and found out, we had the same experience with the archers. As I started watching UTA on TH-cam I did not expect, it catches me as hard as it actually does. Your 'awakening' reaction was my first reactors video to this band and after that, I watched a ton of reactors videos. After 10 different songs I also was totally addicted and lost to the archers. Meanwhile I've got 'Abyss' twice, the normal one and also the Japan edition, because there is a cover from Corey Hart on it. Next one I definitely have to buy is the japanese CD of 'Apex'... Why? I don't know, I have to. But to me it feels heartwarming and satisfying, that you now be also a part of the family. 🤘🏻
This was awesome! I love UTA and haven't heard this song either as it's mainly been videos I've watched. Brittney's voice and the technical instrumental power are incredible. Can't wait to see them live as well. Keep it up Tank!!
This is the reason why I like reaction channels, because I am exposed to new music that I would normally not listen to. Either because I never heard of them or I don’t have an outlet to hear them. Thanks for another great video!
This band has proven they may be the best power metal band ever! Andrew's and Grant's guitar playing is out of this world and Scott's drumming is phenomenal, but Brittney's vocals are on a whole different level. I've seen this band live and they deliver nothing short of an incredible performance. Shout out to my favorite band in the world! Unleash The Archers. THIS BAND ROCKS! #UNLEASHTEARCHERSRULEZ 🤘🏻🔥
Watched your interview the other night, was great! Was like listened two old friends catching up, nice and chill and super cool. Also digging the Parkway Drive shirt!
Great reaction effort, thanks Tank. UtA are magnificent, would love to see what their material looks like at an arena sized event with full lights, graphics and so much pyro :-) So yes- they needs lots of support and word of mouth publicity to get there.
Tank.. I REALLY enjoy your UTA reactions & your appreciation for them. …and this is why engaging with Apex & Abyss, from a lyrical perspective, is so important. Dedicate a couple of hours to fully focus & absorb an amazing tale, told so eloquently. If you do… what you felt for this song, you will feel for them all… and these albums will become your favorite of all time & you know they likely always will be. I’m a 50 year old metal head of 35 years & that is what has happened to me. Pretty thrilled about it, too. 🤘
Man, you said something that I also came to realize: they are a needle in a haystack. Long time ago, I heard some power metal songs but they never striked me like Unleash the Archers, somehow they are special. Right after the first day I listen to a couple of their songs, I simply bought their entire catalog.
So Glad you reacted to this song Tank!!! These folks are a True Masterclass in musicianship and writing. Perfect spot in the song for your room to get bright!!! Love it !! Thanks Tank !!!
Got to know them via reactor channels and saw the different interviews. Now I can't wait to see them live, hopefully in a cool venue in the Netherlands!
Also, great idea putting the lyrics up for the video! I’d like to think that you could “get away” with doing more reactions like this because it’s great to have the lyrics to watch as well!
I love how preposterously epic of a final showdown this song is for the conflict between the Immortal and the Matriarch. After loving the hell out of Apex and listening to it consistently for 3 years before the release of Abyss finally hearing their battle scene play out in such an over the top and musically intricate fashion is so satisfying. Also, my favorite part about the vocal differences between the characters is that since the Matriarch wasn't responsible for waking the Immortal at the start of this album the harsh vocals representing her don't actually come into play until Return to Me, when she finally realized the Immortal is awake again and is a threat. It's just such a remarkable display of restraint to make sure the story aspect of the album comes through that much stronger.
Yeah. Everyone watches, Which is a Awakening is a great song and introduction to the band, this this hole album is on another level. I wish people would get into it more.
Tank, awesome as always!! First of all congrats for your recent fatherhood, I'm glad for you!! I stumbled into Awakening by chance and couldn't let go UTA since then. I rediscovered power metal with them. they are all freakingly talented musicians. I agree with you they should be apprerciated more and they deserve to have arenas sold out for them!! Greetings from Milan and Italy.
One of the few premieres I have watched and it was awesome. Tank reacting to an epic song is great in itself, but what made it truly special was the live chat together with Grant of UTA.
Over the past few years I've become very picky when it comes to buying albums, often settling for watching videos on the bands/labels' official channels. But after watching this video and your interview with Grant, I went on Amazon and ordered both Apex and Abyss. You're absolutely right, these guys need whatever support we can give them. Now, if only I could find a copy of Ayreon's The Source without paying through the nose, that would be perfect!
Fantastic reaction, Tank! I’ve listened to this song a lot, and I teared up right with you as if I were experiencing it for the first time again. This video demonstrates why so many love your reaction channel, because they get to experience a song they love as if for the first time again! Yes, Unleash the Archers 100% write their music to reflect the lyrical content. To me, they remind me of the Baroque masters, such as Monteverdi who once said that the “text should be the mistress of the music.” UTA decided to tell an epic story that fits quite nicely within the large collection of Brittney’s fantasy novels. And, although I think it’s great fantasy, what I love most about the overall story is the idea that you can overcome a dark past and free yourself from the bonds of guilt and forge new beginnings. But yes, the music enhances the lyrics, and the lyrics enhance the music. Apex and Abyss are particularly amazing because of the inseparable nature of the music and lyrics. I first got into metal through power metal (Rhapsody [of Fire] and Dragonforce, etc), but UTA are the best of the sub-genre, and I’m so happy I stumbled upon Awakening after looking at cool album art and a cool band name while browsing through related suggested albums. I love their music so much. I wish I could be you right now because of the UTA journey you’ll embark on. You’re going to love it, too.
So glad Grant suggested this song that has been my favorite of the new album since the first time I heard it!! As a matter of fact I think I didn't make it past this song till I had replayed it at least ten times!!! Agreed UTA should be huge but not everyone has the ability to really "Hear" greatness and appreciate it!.....we are just lucky I guess. Thank for the great reaction Tank. Now maybe you can get Chase on this one....I've been suggesting it since the album came out🙄 🤘🤘
Just saw them Tuesday night in Mesa, AZ and I had to come back and watch this after (Once I got my ass home with actual internet). This song live is a goddamned religious experience. I sincerely hope you get a chance to catch them live at some point, Tank!
Top notch reaction sir! You tend to voice exactly what I am thinking during these things..its uncanny...can't wait to see your reaction to Circle with me from Spiritbox...
Ahhh I'm so happy!! Way too many TH-cam channels just jump on the Awakening bandwagon, as great as that track is UTA are so much more. Almost all of their tracks are incredible, and 95% of reaction videos are only for a single song - it's unbelievable! I highly recommend you check out tracks from all of their albums and EPs: The Outlander, Dreamcrusher, The Path Unsought, No More Heroes, Northwest Passage, Earth and Ashes, General of The Dark Army, Carry The Flame, Battle in The Shadow of The Mountain. All epic. If you feel like posting reactions to any of them, that would always be appreciated, but I just want you to experience more of their work.
Being from Montreal, I never knew about Unleash the Archers until a couple of months and since, they've always blown my mind. I just need the pandemic to be controlled, so shows can start again, and who knows, they might come to my part of the world. I agree with you that they are a special band. In the last year, to have discover Nightwish, Amaranthe and UtA, it makes this TH-cam journey I am having really special. Continue to be awesome Tank :)
Hey, great to see how emotional music can be. i feel so deeply touched by the songs... i cannot even put it into words. i know that i was so flashed by the first song... through stars... and started to listen to uta. that was like last week. Now a week later... i did not listen to any other band yet. (my girlfriend is out of town and the music is blurring all day long!!) i will not only share the music, i will overtake the music on a lot of parties and just put it on 😁 uta deserves to be played!
I like how you pick up on the subtleties us musicians do, such as changing the feel of the song to match lyrics. Especially at "when the clouds clear" and they switch gears from a minor key signature to a largely major key signature. It's appreciated when people pick up on that.
I'm stuck playing over and over your intro to listen to Mute the Silent... Update: Finally made it to the rest of the reaction. Great stuff man!! UtA never dissapoint.
Give Apex a listen front to back first. Not only will it help in understand the story of the albums, but you get to hear my favorite UTA tune, Apex, to close out the first album. It is truly EPIC
Tank said this song really elevated UTA for him to another level with how epic this song is. Apex was that song for me. It's not as complex musically in some ways, but the writing was so profoundly epic and really transported me to another world and I got to be a part of the Apex story. Truly incredible writing.
First time i heard this song i had just pulled into the garage halfway through it and sat in the car while it finished, after which i just sat there for what seemed like ages (probably a few minutes) with a huge smile, goosebumps - just WOW! Felt like I couldn't move - i had been blown away. Love the whole album, but this is the best track for me.
Tank i haven't felt need to comment on one of your videos before, but fantastic job man! This song and the one immediately after it wrap up the double journey. I can't wait for their graphic novel of this!! Both Grant and Britney has said this was their fav song on the album, but you're the first one I've seen react to it. Robert fact: Tank can still create awesome videos when there are no guitars, drum kits, or pyro bursts to analyze :)
So glad you finally got there. They truly are something special. To get this album at the time it came out helped me get through the last year so much easier. Do we feel an Unleashed Monday coming😁
This song and the entire album is just flat out epic. So good that I ended up buying it on vinyl (I own like 6 records haha). Keep up the great work Tank!
I have never listened to this band before,.... going to buy the album now. Some great guitar playing. Great track, thanks for turning me on to something new!
I am convinced that these musical aspects where the intensity fits with the lyrics is intentional. Good storytellers as UTA are usually do that. Love the song.
I was absolutely blown away by this album and loved it from the very first time I listened to it. I can honestly say that I have not had an album sink its hooks into me as deeply and as quickly as Abyss did, and I cannot wait to see UTA live. I don't care if I can't get tickets when they go on sale and have to pay bloated prices on the secondary market, I am GOING to see these guys live!
When I first heard that song while listening to this fantastic album so far.. this just elevated it to Statosphere. When this song came I was totally blown away. masterful writing and simbiose between music and lirics. The way this flows like a real fairytale is just mindblowing!
From one bearded new father to another I love the channel, Tank! Found you a few weeks ago. And you are a VG fan. What else could you want. Can’t wait to check out more of your older videos. I’ve watched a bunch but I have more to check out. Keep it up!
@@TankTheTech for sure. Your take on reactions is fun. I love how you explain gear and you connect to the music the same as me, ever time I listen to spiritbox I get goosebumps.
Can't agree more UTA is next level and I'm not just being an echo chamber here. If I'm agreeing it's because I actually like it and think it really is that good. If I didn't, I wouldn't say it!
dude, Unleash the archers always makes me teary eyed. So good.
I wanted to give Grant a huge virtual hug in the interview when he mentioned this song to check out. It is exactly one of those hidden gems in a fantastic album that just makes you grin stupidly when you hear it. An instant favorite of UTA of mine after hearing it. To have Tank check it out was a total treat because I knew he would still find great stuff to talk about and the lyrics video was a really cool bonus. Awesome reaction Tank and thank you to Grant for the suggestion!
Thanks a bunch, Will! Much appreciated!
I'm going to go out on a limb and say this is the best metal song of this century. It's essentially perfect. Certain Opeth tracks might give it a run for its money, but gawdamn this is phenomenal.
When you finally get a chance to listen to Apex and Abyss in order, this epic battle scene will be elevated even higher for you. To put a story like this over two albums and for the songs to be great AND tell the story is just crazy good.
So true!!!!!
The moment of catharsis, just before that gut-punch hits so hard
Unleash the Archers is one of those bands where I hear a song like "Apex" and I think 'This is their best song'. Then I hear "Northwest Passage" and I think 'This is their best song'. Now I am listening to "The Wind that Shapes the Land" and I am thinking 'This is their best song'. These guys just crank out one banger right after another.
Just found your channel. Love it- keep it up.
It’s insane how good at songwriting they are.
UTA: Sorry guys, we put out nothing but bangers.
Us: Thank you
That tone switch after the battle is over, kills me every time. So unexpected, yet natural.
god the intro of this song gives me chills everytime. Her vibrato on "long agooooooo" kills me.
I get such huge vibes of Anne Wilson in that intro; she just sounds so incredible.
So true. I've listened to this track more times than I can count and still get emotional when she sings that line.
Agreed! Chills 100%
"This band is incredibly uniquely special" hit it right on the head good sir!
This song makes me want to equally cry with joy and run through a cement wall.
I must have listened to this song at least a hundred times in the first month I had the album, and it's still the best song they've ever written as far as I'm concerned. Nice to see it finally getting some recognition among reactors.
This is one of the greatest songs I’ve ever heard, period. It is an absolute masterpiece of arrangement, and not just in metal.
@@DanUtley Absolutely this. I can't even comprehend how monumentally incredible this song is.
I just love coming back to see this reaction. 1400 likes and 1 dislike 6 months after posting. That says everything you need to know.
If any band should be worthy of taking the reigns from Iron Maiden it is definitely UTA. It's just impossible for bands to reach that level of a Iron Maiden or Metallica these days. These guys deserve all the love and support.
so true
@@JohnThornburgh I’ve been saying this myself for the past year! If these guys keep on the trajectory they’ve laid down with Abyss and Apex, they really could be the new Iron Maiden.
I just listened to an Iron Maiden live concert from 2011, in Chile, UTA is way more sophisticated and better sounding.
@@Mugroar they already are much better than Iron Maiden ever was
Unleash The Archers, Beast In Black, and Brother Of Metal have been my favs for the past 6+ months and I can't stop listening to them
This reaction had me grinning like an idiot because it is easily my favourite on the album. The way they write these songs, from lyrics to riffs and timing is just on another level. So when you combine that with the fact that they're just genuinely good people? Not hard to see why they've become my favourite band, and i'm so stoked to see them live when all of this insanity is over.
I would highly recommend listening to 4 particular tracks one after the other, because there's a connection that a lot of people miss. Earth and Ashes, Legacy, The Wind That Shapes The Land, and Carry The Flame. I think you'll find the connection.
Btw, if you ever go back to the full roadie life? I think we know the band you need to be working for.
I'd tech for these guys in a second. Also wouldn't mind playing bass for em, either. Haha
@@TankTheTech Funny enough, there seems to be a perpetual vacancy at that spot. If you do get the gig, just watch out for this nerdy looking guy with a .45 who does the track & field officiating thing.
@@TankTheTech k that would be the dream right?
Ditto ditto ditto!
I bet u wouldn't mind Tank. Their bassist might tho, (and then i realized, I'd fucked up. There's an vacancy all the time. Heh ) 😂🤣
Meant to add I am so excited that my wife and I, at age 53 btw, are going to see UTA live in Orlando FL in September. It's been a long time since I put tickets to a show on my refrigerator door, but that is exactly where they are.
Nice!!!
Both Chase and Elizabeth (Charismatic Voice) have done chats with Brittney and there's a few tidbits that would interest you. She played Rugby all through high school and most of university. How more badass can you be, eh? That really got Chase's attention as both him and Brittney played the same position, scrum half. We could see how it was a struggle for Chase to keep the interview on music and not drift off on a Rugby chat.
Brittney writes the story line, the lyrics and the vocal melodies. In Apex and Abyss, the growls from Grant usually represent the Matriarch while Brittney sings the Immortal role. Sometimes Brittney also sings the Matriarch with a noticeable change to a more menacing tone. It's an interesting storyline where the woman is pure evil, with her story sometimes being sung by a man, while the story of the male hero is sung by a woman.
To me, UTA seems to capture everything good from classic rock, and modern metal, without any of the negative attributes that each genre inherently has.
Dude, are you serious? This is one of my favorite songs from them, and I heard recently it was one of Brittney's favorites. I'm super hype, there are so few reactions to their non video songs. So good
Apparently it´s everyones favourite. Yours, mine, and the whole of UTA too.
@@hansemanuelsson9005 Carry the Flame and Afterlife I actually listen to mre frequently, but this song has such a storyline climax that I was really anticipating
It's like an opera where the story is told through the lyrics. The whole album is like that of course but it becomes really clear in the last part. I remember when I first listened to Abyss I couldn't make out most of the words but I could still feel the story!
same! i still can't help but imagine an epic drangon ball z - like fight going on with rocks exploding and huge power ups haha. Song gives me chills every time!
So I actually had very little exposure to Unleash the Archers prior to this video of yours which I came across earlier this week. I had only ever seen their rendition of Northwest Passage (which is fantastic, but nothing like THIS epic thing). After seeing this, I listened to The Wind That Shapes The Land by itself several times, then went and tracked down both the lyrics and music for both Apex and Abyss and spent a couple hours going through the whole story, which was an EXCELLENT use of my time. Those two albums tell quite the epic tale.
I also have tracked down every other reaction video to The Wind That Shapes The Land that I could find on TH-cam. It's safe to say I've gotten a bit obsessed with this tune. However, doing so has *really* made me appreciate you, man. Nobody else I watched had anywhere near the depth of analysis of WHY this song is so good and works so well that you did. Your expertise really makes your videos special. Appreciate that BIG time.
Man, thank you for the kind words, and yeah, these guys are not only fantastic musicians, but wonderful story tellers as well. This is just top shelf metal right here.
The extra light in the room represents the religious experience one has listening to this song for the first time
Hahahaha. Great call!
Haha! Absolutely!
Hey Tank! I discovered this band with your Awakening reaction and I felt in love with the band...while power metal still the same way that was 20 years ago (wich is not a bad thing) this band is new fresh air to the genre, and musically their are beasts! Waiting your reaction to "Cleanse the Bloodlines", you will enjoy it, I promise!!!
Greetings from Spain and thank you for your work and passion in every reaction!!! Cheers man!
Welcome to the fold Tank. Always makes me happy when I see someone have the "aha" moment and realize the brilliance of UTA. They are a very special band to me and many others. We all need to do our parts to help them get the recognition they so richly deserve.
dunno why I'm watching this reaction so late lol. I swear I teared up at the exact same moment you did when I first heard this song. I also remember where I was when it first hit me: the light train, of all places. But it was great to headbang with you and seeing how happy you were made me happy!
Every time i hear "and now here we stand face to face" i go oh shit here we go!! 😤💪
Totally my favorite song from the album. They are f***ing amazing.
Congratulations on the new baby man.
Thanks a ton!
Agree 100% with what you said. I am pretty sure the tight tie in between the lyrics and the music is the nerdy genius of Brittney.
It is beyond belief that the band members still have to have day jobs!!
When Slayes eases back on her vocals she has a beautiful, haunting voice man. Goosebumps.
Love your reaction and I 100% agree of how special this band is. BTW, their album Abyss is nominated for a Juno award(Canadian Grammy) which is so well deserved!!! This album is a masterpiece!!!
I’m so happy to hear this was Grants favorite on the album, it’s mine too! When she hits the hook, and belts out “I am the wind that shapes the land” it hits me so hard I love it
Nice, I really didn't mind it not being a video. Never heard it before but UTA is certainly pinging on my radar lately.
Being a music reactor means doing the music without videos too mate, fans will still watch 😁👌
But usually it’d be pointless for the way I do reactions since the whole point is talking about gear and production. This was an exceptional.
@@TankTheTech True, it makes it harder for you to show the special qualities you specifically bring to the scene; that said, you had plenty of interesting stuff to say regardless, so If you need to do it in the future, I don't think it will be too much of a problem. (P.S. check out more Alestorm and Gloryhammer!)
Dude. I saw them tonight, and I cannot express how fucking solid this song is live. Goddamn.
No way! So jealous!
Back a year later to tell you how much I still love this. Takes me back to my first play through of this album. This song still gets the water works going.
Man it was so nice seeing you pick out parts of the music you like. Also, I fucking love this song and I was so amped to see you hear that middle section!
Tank, my man! First, very, very happy that you're reacting to this song! I've heard this song probably hundreds of times since it got released last year -- and I _NEVER_ get tired of hearing it! And yeah, Grant is 1000% right for recommending this song. 🤘🏹🤘
Second, sometimes it's not about the videos, gear, or live performances -- sometimes, its about sitting back, relaxing, and letting a song give you the ear candy you desperately need.
Edit: And Tank, in case you didnt catch it, when Brittney sings the lyric "And watch as I drain the light from inside," at about 11:00, it's literally a reference to The Matrix, as Neo jumps into Smith, and destroys him from within, thus freeing himself from Smith's power. The Immortal does the same thing to the Matriarch, albeit in a slightly different fashion.
Oh nice! Thanks for that info!
Dude I got you brother! The first time I heard this song and she hit that note after she one the battle I had tears in my eyes. Her voice combined with the music hit me straight in the heart!!! Since finding uta I've not been this excited about music since the first time I listened to Iron maiden when I was a teenager.
I'm so happy you did this song!! Wish more would!
Found UTA through reaction videos and I’m absolutely hooked. Bought the last 4 albums and haven’t listened to much else for the last several weeks. This song and Soulbound are my favorites off the new album but I can listen to it all from start to end.
Tank, I enjoyed your reaction to this video and how appreciative you are of a their musicianship and vocals. Can’t wait for more UTA and don’t think you can go wrong with any of their songs. Test Your Metal is a fun song, Northwest Passage is a great cover, Cleanse the Bloodlines is a fantastic song with an intense video, and General of the Dark Army has lots of great harsh vocals that you love.
This is my favorite song of all-time. I'm not young, or musically naive.
And, it took many, many, listens to get there.
Even if I'm alone, it's #1 for someone out there.
Ditto!
Enjoyed your interview w/ Grant! I wish the other guys In the band would do more interviews. I can never can get enough of hearing from these guys! (See if you can land an interview with Andy or Scott next). Great job on your review of this epic song! Keep up the good work! :)
This band, man. They're special; there's nothing I don't love about them. And I will keep suggesting "Cleanse the Bloodlines", I'm 100% sure you'll like it.
For some reason this feels like the 80s just gave me a big hug.
Keep up the good work Tank!
I’ve been trying to get a good friend of mine to listen to this band by telling him this song is like a dragonball z fight set to music. Great reaction dude.
"The storm that raged, is quiet once again."
is my favorite line in the UtA catalog.
Mine is def „Oceans arise at my command“
It makes me quiet....still
@@Gary_a_normal_human_being
I get you, but I can't even reach the people you made it as far into the song as my lyric.
Your honesty is very much appreciated. As well as your knowledge, as always. My love to the family :-)
Beien a fan of UTA since 2012 when they released their 2nd album "Demons of the Astrowaste" , seeing the fanbase grow so much over the years has been really amazing, everything you said is 100% spot on they deserve every fan they get and 50x more.
I consistently find myself coming back to your reaction of this song cause it still makes me giddy watching you react to it cause it's my fave from them.
My favorite part of this song is when she hits that high note, a second before she hits it that note fades in lower in the mix and then mixes with her main vocal line. It's just a nice little touch that adds so much.
Always happy to see you love UtA - they are certainly a band that I took a while to find!
And like someone else has mentioned, Brittney does have her own channel where she goes into depth about the songs and such :)
Can’t wait to see more!
This song is easily the most listened to on my Spotify for all of last year...and this year. SO GOOD. Can't wait until I can see UTA Live!
Again I watched your latest UTA reaction and found out, we had the same experience with the archers.
As I started watching UTA on TH-cam I did not expect, it catches me as hard as it actually does.
Your 'awakening' reaction was my first reactors video to this band and after that, I watched a ton of reactors videos.
After 10 different songs I also was totally addicted and lost to the archers.
Meanwhile I've got 'Abyss' twice, the normal one and also the Japan edition, because there is a cover from Corey Hart on it.
Next one I definitely have to buy is the japanese CD of 'Apex'... Why? I don't know, I have to.
But to me it feels heartwarming and satisfying, that you now be also a part of the family. 🤘🏻
Great reaction Tank. I can totally see why this is Grant's fave song🤘🏻👍🏻
This was awesome! I love UTA and haven't heard this song either as it's mainly been videos I've watched. Brittney's voice and the technical instrumental power are incredible. Can't wait to see them live as well. Keep it up Tank!!
This is the reason why I like reaction channels, because I am exposed to new music that I would normally not listen to. Either because I never heard of them or I don’t have an outlet to hear them. Thanks for another great video!
🤘🤘🤘
Brother keep doing the way it works for you! Pausing is fine and I think most of us look forward to your reaction and thoughts.
This band has proven they may be the best power metal band ever! Andrew's and Grant's guitar playing is out of this world and Scott's drumming is phenomenal, but Brittney's vocals are on a whole different level. I've seen this band live and they deliver nothing short of an incredible performance. Shout out to my favorite band in the world! Unleash The Archers.
THIS BAND ROCKS!
#UNLEASHTEARCHERSRULEZ 🤘🏻🔥
Watched your interview the other night, was great! Was like listened two old friends catching up, nice and chill and super cool. Also digging the Parkway Drive shirt!
Great reaction effort, thanks Tank. UtA are magnificent, would love to see what their material looks like at an arena sized event with full lights, graphics and so much pyro :-) So yes- they needs lots of support and word of mouth publicity to get there.
Tank.. I REALLY enjoy your UTA reactions & your appreciation for them.
…and this is why engaging with Apex & Abyss, from a lyrical perspective, is so important. Dedicate a couple of hours to fully focus & absorb an amazing tale, told so eloquently. If you do… what you felt for this song, you will feel for them all… and these albums will become your favorite of all time & you know they likely always will be. I’m a 50 year old metal head of 35 years & that is what has happened to me. Pretty thrilled about it, too. 🤘
Iron Maiden was the band who got me into metal. I bought every album and become obsessed for many years. I am having de ja vu with UTA...
I agree, incredible song and incredible band! Just saw them in concert. Incredible live too.
Man, you said something that I also came to realize: they are a needle in a haystack. Long time ago, I heard some power metal songs but they never striked me like Unleash the Archers, somehow they are special. Right after the first day I listen to a couple of their songs, I simply bought their entire catalog.
So Glad you reacted to this song Tank!!! These folks are a True Masterclass in musicianship and writing. Perfect spot in the song for your room to get bright!!! Love it !! Thanks Tank !!!
Great review of this masterpiece, Cheers Tank! 🍻
Got to know them via reactor channels and saw the different interviews. Now I can't wait to see them live, hopefully in a cool venue in the Netherlands!
Also, great idea putting the lyrics up for the video! I’d like to think that you could “get away” with doing more reactions like this because it’s great to have the lyrics to watch as well!
I love how preposterously epic of a final showdown this song is for the conflict between the Immortal and the Matriarch. After loving the hell out of Apex and listening to it consistently for 3 years before the release of Abyss finally hearing their battle scene play out in such an over the top and musically intricate fashion is so satisfying.
Also, my favorite part about the vocal differences between the characters is that since the Matriarch wasn't responsible for waking the Immortal at the start of this album the harsh vocals representing her don't actually come into play until Return to Me, when she finally realized the Immortal is awake again and is a threat. It's just such a remarkable display of restraint to make sure the story aspect of the album comes through that much stronger.
Yeah. Everyone watches, Which is a Awakening is a great song and introduction to the band, this this hole album is on another level. I wish people would get into it more.
I've been begging for this so long,
that I've lost words to describe it....
Tank, awesome as always!! First of all congrats for your recent fatherhood, I'm glad for you!! I stumbled into Awakening by chance and couldn't let go UTA since then. I rediscovered power metal with them. they are all freakingly talented musicians. I agree with you they should be apprerciated more and they deserve to have arenas sold out for them!! Greetings from Milan and Italy.
One of the few premieres I have watched and it was awesome. Tank reacting to an epic song is great in itself, but what made it truly special was the live chat together with Grant of UTA.
Over the past few years I've become very picky when it comes to buying albums, often settling for watching videos on the bands/labels' official channels. But after watching this video and your interview with Grant, I went on Amazon and ordered both Apex and Abyss. You're absolutely right, these guys need whatever support we can give them. Now, if only I could find a copy of Ayreon's The Source without paying through the nose, that would be perfect!
Fantastic reaction, Tank! I’ve listened to this song a lot, and I teared up right with you as if I were experiencing it for the first time again. This video demonstrates why so many love your reaction channel, because they get to experience a song they love as if for the first time again!
Yes, Unleash the Archers 100% write their music to reflect the lyrical content. To me, they remind me of the Baroque masters, such as Monteverdi who once said that the “text should be the mistress of the music.” UTA decided to tell an epic story that fits quite nicely within the large collection of Brittney’s fantasy novels. And, although I think it’s great fantasy, what I love most about the overall story is the idea that you can overcome a dark past and free yourself from the bonds of guilt and forge new beginnings. But yes, the music enhances the lyrics, and the lyrics enhance the music. Apex and Abyss are particularly amazing because of the inseparable nature of the music and lyrics.
I first got into metal through power metal (Rhapsody [of Fire] and Dragonforce, etc), but UTA are the best of the sub-genre, and I’m so happy I stumbled upon Awakening after looking at cool album art and a cool band name while browsing through related suggested albums. I love their music so much. I wish I could be you right now because of the UTA journey you’ll embark on. You’re going to love it, too.
So glad Grant suggested this song that has been my favorite of the new album since the first time I heard it!! As a matter of fact I think I didn't make it past this song till I had replayed it at least ten times!!! Agreed UTA should be huge but not everyone has the ability to really "Hear" greatness and appreciate it!.....we are just lucky I guess.
Thank for the great reaction Tank. Now maybe you can get Chase on this one....I've been suggesting it since the album came out🙄 🤘🤘
Just saw them Tuesday night in Mesa, AZ and I had to come back and watch this after (Once I got my ass home with actual internet). This song live is a goddamned religious experience.
I sincerely hope you get a chance to catch them live at some point, Tank!
Jealous! I hope to catch them live someday soon!
Top notch reaction sir! You tend to voice exactly what I am thinking during these things..its uncanny...can't wait to see your reaction to Circle with me from Spiritbox...
I think the word you were looking for when the music changed after defeating her foe was, "Triumphant". Great reaction!!! Great Song!!!
Rock On!!! 🤘🤘🤘
This combination of musicianship, vocal performance and song-writing is very precious.
You're preaching to the choir here.
Showing their Maiden influence in this one. Such a great, great song.
Ahhh I'm so happy!! Way too many TH-cam channels just jump on the Awakening bandwagon, as great as that track is UTA are so much more. Almost all of their tracks are incredible, and 95% of reaction videos are only for a single song - it's unbelievable! I highly recommend you check out tracks from all of their albums and EPs: The Outlander, Dreamcrusher, The Path Unsought, No More Heroes, Northwest Passage, Earth and Ashes, General of The Dark Army, Carry The Flame, Battle in The Shadow of The Mountain. All epic.
If you feel like posting reactions to any of them, that would always be appreciated, but I just want you to experience more of their work.
Being from Montreal, I never knew about Unleash the Archers until a couple of months and since, they've always blown my mind. I just need the pandemic to be controlled, so shows can start again, and who knows, they might come to my part of the world. I agree with you that they are a special band. In the last year, to have discover Nightwish, Amaranthe and UtA, it makes this TH-cam journey I am having really special. Continue to be awesome Tank :)
I love that you don´t redo any reactions, and that your blinds fell all of a sudden! I love real life moments like that in videos.
What a great reaction once again Tank. 🤘❤🤘
Hey,
great to see how emotional music can be. i feel so deeply touched by the songs... i cannot even put it into words.
i know that i was so flashed by the first song... through stars... and started to listen to uta.
that was like last week.
Now a week later... i did not listen to any other band yet. (my girlfriend is out of town and the music is blurring all day long!!)
i will not only share the music, i will overtake the music on a lot of parties and just put it on 😁
uta deserves to be played!
I like how you pick up on the subtleties us musicians do, such as changing the feel of the song to match lyrics. Especially at "when the clouds clear" and they switch gears from a minor key signature to a largely major key signature. It's appreciated when people pick up on that.
I'm stuck playing over and over your intro to listen to Mute the Silent...
Update: Finally made it to the rest of the reaction. Great stuff man!! UtA never dissapoint.
Give Apex a listen front to back first. Not only will it help in understand the story of the albums, but you get to hear my favorite UTA tune, Apex, to close out the first album. It is truly EPIC
Tank said this song really elevated UTA for him to another level with how epic this song is. Apex was that song for me. It's not as complex musically in some ways, but the writing was so profoundly epic and really transported me to another world and I got to be a part of the Apex story. Truly incredible writing.
First time i heard this song i had just pulled into the garage halfway through it and sat in the car while it finished, after which i just sat there for what seemed like ages (probably a few minutes) with a huge smile, goosebumps - just WOW! Felt like I couldn't move - i had been blown away. Love the whole album, but this is the best track for me.
Tank i haven't felt need to comment on one of your videos before, but fantastic job man! This song and the one immediately after it wrap up the double journey. I can't wait for their graphic novel of this!! Both Grant and Britney has said this was their fav song on the album, but you're the first one I've seen react to it.
Robert fact: Tank can still create awesome videos when there are no guitars, drum kits, or pyro bursts to analyze :)
Thanks a ton, man! Much appreciated!
So glad you finally got there. They truly are something special. To get this album at the time it came out helped me get through the last year so much easier. Do we feel an Unleashed Monday coming😁
This song and the entire album is just flat out epic. So good that I ended up buying it on vinyl (I own like 6 records haha). Keep up the great work Tank!
I have never listened to this band before,.... going to buy the album now. Some great guitar playing. Great track, thanks for turning me on to something new!
🤘🤘🤘 And THAT is why I love doing this channel so much.
My grandfather always said that most rock/metal was just noise... I wish he was alive to hear this band.
I am convinced that these musical aspects where the intensity fits with the lyrics is intentional. Good storytellers as UTA are usually do that.
Love the song.
I was absolutely blown away by this album and loved it from the very first time I listened to it. I can honestly say that I have not had an album sink its hooks into me as deeply and as quickly as Abyss did, and I cannot wait to see UTA live. I don't care if I can't get tickets when they go on sale and have to pay bloated prices on the secondary market, I am GOING to see these guys live!
When I first heard that song while listening to this fantastic album so far.. this just elevated it to Statosphere. When this song came I was totally blown away. masterful writing and simbiose between music and lirics. The way this flows like a real fairytale is just mindblowing!
This band. This song. My God, this band.
From one bearded new father to another I love the channel, Tank! Found you a few weeks ago. And you are a VG fan. What else could you want. Can’t wait to check out more of your older videos. I’ve watched a bunch but I have more to check out. Keep it up!
Thanks a ton, man! Much appreciated!
@@TankTheTech for sure. Your take on reactions is fun. I love how you explain gear and you connect to the music the same as me, ever time I listen to spiritbox I get goosebumps.
Can't agree more UTA is next level and I'm not just being an echo chamber here. If I'm agreeing it's because I actually like it and think it really is that good. If I didn't, I wouldn't say it!
Thanks for getting to WTSTL. Amazing. Oh, Canada! 🇨🇦
I see you've removed the organic lightening bolt from that tee.
Hahahahaha. I filmed this right before that happened. 😂😂😂