Matt Barlow has an insane vocal range. In this song he sings in high notes because the original singer sang in high notes. If you want to understand the depth of his voice you should listen to Dante's Inferno which also has some of the most iconic Iced Earth riffs
Important comment! I'd also suggest some of the "Something wicked" songs. Those were specifically written for Matt and transport an epic atmosphere, too! Go for "The coming curse"!!!
I swear ive been listening to them for maybe 12-15 years, and I have looked for something, in that amount of time, that can compete with his playing. There. Is. None.
"Alive in Athens" is the best LIVE album I have ever heard. It made me appreciate some the early songs of Iced Earth because there in Athens they sounded better than the album versions. I am Bulgarian, many of my friends were at the concert. Now I regret I did not go.
I agree. I’m not normally a fan of live albums because of the recordings and how they sound. But alive in Athens is literally one of the best heavy metal live albums ever recorded.
Matt Barlow is a legendary vocalist. If you want to hear the beauty in his voice, try Melancholy (Holy Martyr). Iced Earth with Matt Barlow has so many classics so hopefully you guys do a poll or two for them in the future.
My vote is on Damien. The song is epic from all angles and Matt Barlow's range really comes through while maintaining some aggression. Melancholy is great too though😀
No man! The rhytm guitar player Jon Schaffer NEVER misses! He is actually the leader of the band and it is known to be very demanding with the musicians he hire for the band. Another great song is Drácula, check out a live version!
The vocalist, Matt Barlow, is definitely one of the greatest Metal singers of all time. Ridiculous vocal range, powerful and unique. He sounds different even when doing this high pitch voice that you don't like in other songs. If you wanna know what I'm talking about, check Dracula - Wolf - Damien. All these 3 are AMAZING songs.
Definitely do "Iced Earth - Dantes Inferno" (Alive in Athens). I know that it's all a matter of taste but Matt Barlow will always be the voice of Iced Earth.
ICED EARTH!!! You guys have no idea how much it means to me for you to review such a legendary, dedicated, hard working band. I love Iced Earth and I love you guys for this reaction video. In answer to your question about the guitarists, Jon Schaffer is the leader (founding member), song writer, back up vocalist, and rhythm guitarist -he's the one playing the B.C. Rich. The lead guitarist at this time was a very young and inexperienced, but still solid performer Larry Tarnowski. The solo and melodic passages he played were originally performed by Randall Schawver who was with the band from 1989 until 1997.
There are two rhythm guitarists who influenced my playing the most.. James Hetfield and John Schaffer!! John Schaffer is so overlooked as a rhythm guitarist. His right hand is insane!! He's right there with James from Metallica!
Matt Barlow is considered by many metalheads to be one of the greatest metal vocalists. He is certainly one of my favorites. I love these high vocals with power and an edge to them. He is actually semi-retired now from music. He is a full time law enforcement officer now. He does have a project called Ashes of Ares that he sings for, but they don't do much in the way of touring.
I was at that show (yes, I'm that old), it was a killer two nights and they played better than any time I've seen them since. Bad news is that I pretty much grew up in that club and now it is a super market. I have no idea why but Iced Earth was arguably as big as Metallica in Greece during the 90s, I was actually shocked to learn that was not the case globally.
I've never seen Iced Earth with Barlow only with Tim Owens and Stu block😭😭😭🥺🥺😭... And you're telling me you got to see the Alive in Athens show🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯 You witnessed the greatest metal show of all time😝🤘
@@MrMortadelas I'm over here in the states and while they aren't AS big as Metallica over here(even though they honestly should be) but there is most definitely an appreciation atleast among the metal community... Iced Earth(Barlow era) is kinda like Nevermore or Opeth.... even if you aren't into them as a metalhead you respect the shit outta them.
Can you remember if there was a reason STTD/AQOH was left off the DVD version? Technical difficulties or something? It could have just been a screw up when Century Media threw it together, but were there any shenanigans during the concert, do you recall?
One Zook Nation it’s because those songs happened to fall during a tape change. This was before everything was digital. This wasn’t even supposed to be officially released as a video. Century Media released it against the band’s wishes.
"I want to be known as the riff master. I want to come out and play a 5 second riff and I bow and then I leave." Congratulations, you've discovered grindcore.
I love Iced Earth. Matt Barlow is an incredible vocalist. Check out “Dracula” and “Dante’s Inferno”. I always think of them as being a thrash band that plays power metal. John Schaffer is such a great guitarist with a clear love for James Hetfield’s rhythms, but he loves the penmanship of Iron Maiden.
The reason why the singer is going so high is because the original singer in 91 sang it high (and it sounded terrible back then). The songs composed to the singer's voice on this video (Matt Barlow) tend to highlight the baritone of the singer. Prepare to get comments on your comments on the singer because the metal community holds him as a high water mark lol. Also, you pointing out Candlemass, Maiden, and King Diamond is super on point; the guitarist has gone on record many times citing them among his influences. Now go through my history and see how many times I've requested Orphaned Land - Ocean Land ☹
Yes, yes, yes... Barlow is an amazing vocalist and this song doesnt even represent his ability. Trust this man, just read the comments. Ya'll better come back with some of Matt Barlow's og songs.
John Greely horrible? I get finding Gene Adams bad (listen to Schaeffer's Purgatory .he is MUCH better now) but Greely? He was their best along with Barlow. Others pale in comparison to Greely and Barlow. Listen to the original recordings of NOTS and not that shitty plastic drums "Dark Genesis" remaster. Schaffer removed some parts of Greely's brutal high screams in the remaster like shortening that high screams after "the henchmen awaits you" part. You think his vocals are bad because the remaster is BAD not Greely. Century's Media also reissues the original recordings of the first three records a few years ago on vinyl and cd. No need for those other remasters. They are only good for the art (original "Burnt Offerings" art is better...that remaster art is corny) and "Tribute to the Gods". Personally, While Matt was the heart of the band, aside from "Alive In Athens", Jon had been phoning it in riff wise since "Something Wicked..". I like the album's after "The Dark Saga", but some of the songs begin to sound the same. Iced Earth was better with the first four album's because of....RANDALL SHAWVER! Iced Earth just sound corny nowadays. The thrash is gone...too many ballads. I prefer Demons and Wizards at this point. They are how Iced Earth used to be...power and agression with a good balance of emotion. Why can't Jon do that with I.E. anymore? Looking forward to the new album. Jon Schaffer's Purgatory is great too...a symbol of what is missing from current I.E.
In 1999 I was 17 years old and I had to lie to my mother to manage to go this gig (actually both nights) AMAZING experience. Thank you @Ancient Ruins Official for the memories
"Dorian." These cats will eat that shit up like sugar. It was my favorite from the two albums ... I cannot wait for my finger bones to get ahold of the next D&W album.
John Schaffer is one of the most underrated guitarist and song writers in the metal community. I think you'd really dig Demons and Wizards (his other project) as he pairs with one of the most underrated singers and song writers in the metal community (Hansi Kursch from Blind Guardian).
Thank you for this reaction. Iced Earth are a very talented and highly underrated metal band. They're one of the few rare bands who's live performances sound just like the album version..very hard to do. They have a huge catalog of great songs.
Hey guys, to answer some of your questions: 1. They don't mess up. That's what professionals do. They're THAT good. 2. The "lead" guitarist is the one who does the solos. The "rhythm" guitarist, is the one who does most of the song's rhythms under the solos. Jon Schaffer is the rhythm guitarist. This is HIS band. He wrote the riffs to all the songs. He's the one you're referring to as the "lead" guitarist. 3. Iced Earth is considered "Power Thrash" because of the speed of their songs, and the lyrical matter of the songs. I agree with everyone else, Dante's Inferno is THE quintessential Iced Earth song. Also, Demons & Wizards is a super group made by Jon Schaffer of Iced Earth (guitars), and Hansi Kirsch of Blind Guardian (singer). I'd highly recommend checking them out. If you like TIS, you should start with "Blood on my Hands"
When I was a teen, the local record store was taking down Alive In Athens posters. I asked if I could have one, they gave me one. Hung it up in my room cuz I loved the artwork. Then later bought the album from the same store, and that’s how I fell in love with Iced Earth (that’s my cool story bros)
Frank Kirmse Matt is the man, but Stu kills it on “Dante’s Inferno”. Can’t go wrong with either version. I’d like them go with the Stu version on this one.
I had the privilege of seeing these guys in a small club in Anaheim in 1999 with Nevermore as co-headliners. There was maybe 60 people in the crowd and both bands played like it was the Rose Bowl. I’ve been to 300+ shows and to this day this is best sounding show I’ve ever heard. They sound better than the studio. Matt Barlow is one of the 3 best metal vocalists of all time.
I got to see these guys about 11 years ago in a small club in Asheville NC. They were awesome. They were so loud that you could not even think. Their sound absolutely pummelled you. When I got home the next day I had to clean dried blood out of my ears.
@@luisjalabert8366 I don't think I agree. If anything, I'd say Travel in Stygian is one of the best showcases of his range, because it has extremely high, powerful notes that most singers couldn't dream of holding like Matt does, it has passages of his strong mid-range, and it has extremely low passages. It encompasses nearly his whole vocal range in one song, and some of the best notes he's ever hit. I think the problem is that they're hearing his high register and they're not hearing it as part of a range, they're just reading it as "This guy screeches really high pitched and whatever." but it's not remotely like that. And it saddens me that they pay no attention to the range he shows at all, demonstrating that his high notes are a choice he's making, and not just like, a gimmick or something.
@@TribulationGuild yeah... idk man, that was kinda my point... if you only listen to this song, it seems that this "demon voice" would be his "normal" way of singing, which is NOT. And it's ok if you love it, for me it's probably the worst example.
finally guys!!! some iced earth, john schaffer (the guitarist) is the absolute master of riffing, and matt barlow one of the best singers in metal history, i would like to see some reactions of dante's inferno and burnt offerings songs from the burnt offerings album, i was in that 1999 concert by the way, it was awesome!!!
Jon Schaffer is an amazing musician. I've seen him 3 times (twice with Iced Earth and recently with his other band Demons and Wizards). The first time I saw him I got to meet him. Not only an awesome guitar player but a super nice, humble, down to Earth guy. Exactly how you'd imagine him to be.
One of the greatest iced earth songs.....they didn't mess up on this whole album . Their rhythms are ultra clean and tight . Iced earth are big fans of Iron Maiden
Saw Iced Earth a few years back in Chicago in a small club. They were so loud that the sound vibration shook my body man. That's a real metal show!🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘
Same thing when they played in St Louis in 2004, i could feel my ribs vibrating ,at the end of the show it felt like i had been punched in the chest..... .... with a truck 🤘🤘
@@MrKorton That's a great song too, and would love them to do that as well. I just say Dante's Inferno for obvious reasons. Not only is it an amazing song, but it has EVERYTHING, so it's really the best showcase of the band lol.
@@LedPESRule Those are fantastic songs too. I doubt they'd do all 3 at once though. They could do the whole something wicked story with the trilogy and both albums! that would take forever though lol.
@@justincorwin916 if you look around their catalogue they have a lot of different styles. Some are straight up growls and others are quiet it's a mixed bag as far vocals are concerned.
Alive in Athens is IE's definitive live performance. Alot of people will dismiss barlow's work but he did an incredible job putting his own take on the greely tracks. This is prime Iced Earth, everyone was young.
Come on, man. You legitimately CAN'T understand how Barlow's voice can be a lot for most people to deal with? There's an amazing amount of talent and range there for sure, but I can certainly understand how most people would find this singing style to be very, very cheesy. I don't understand how YOU don't understand that.
@@travistotle they never said it was cheesy, they just said they didn't think it was very good. Which is nonsense. But I'm not suprised. They don't like high vocals. They are really super picky about vocals.
@@khellendross3573 I think they're about as "picky" about vocals as the average person is. Metal generally has a pretty big barrier of entry, and the vocals are usually one of the biggest things that can turn a person off. Whether it's super high-pitched wailing or guttural screaming, let's not pretend like metal vocals have very accessible appeal. And I would say these dudes are much LESS picky about vocals than your average person, considering how many different genres they listen to and the whole free-thinkers aspect of their channel.
@@travistotle Its just not really true. When you look at other metal reaction channels they are alot less open minded. Even from a musical standpoint. They complain if things get to "proggy". But the reason why I sub to them on patreon and here is cause for all that they are very fair minded in their criticism usually. They are pretty careful to concede their bias towards certain things. They may not be free thinking in practice, but in spirit. Metal having a barrier of entry is relative. If you grew up around rap, it has a low barrier of entry, if not then the barrier of entry is very high. So yea, to me, this is very accessible metal, but I grew up listening to rock and metal. Not much of a barrier. Now black metal, that has a barrier of entry. Even for metal fans. Same with death metal (though melodic death metal is a good entry point).
Great reaction! But if you want to listen to the real voice range of barllow you have to react to a queation of heaven by iced earth. On the other hand if you love riffs listen to dantes inferno live in athens
Travel in Stygian isn't a song written with Barlow in the band, that was just him attempting to match the previous vocalist. He's a baritone, and most of his songs highlight that.
Guys, thank you for giving your fan what he has been requesting for so long! That is awesome of you. And giving this song the respect it deserves! Mad respect guys!
Guys the lead guitarist on this live set was Larry Tarnowski who had played on a few of the previous studio albums. He was always stage left (or stage right as we look at it) so the camera guys tended to ignore him and focus on the singer and Jon Schaffer on the rhythm guitar
Stoked that you guys doing Iced Earth, i loved this band when i was younger. Alive in Athens is dope as f and cool that you started off with a song from it, but a liiiiiiiiiiiiittle dissapointed that first Iced Earth reaction is not Dantes Inferno. I think there will be plenty people that gonna request it so i have high hopes that Dantes Inferno is your next reaction. Anyways love your work guys, ive been a fan since you released the Holy wars video, and been a pateron sub since you guys started it up :)
That song was written for the bands previous singer, so Mat Barlow had to improvise his voice for this specific performance. Plus this concert was like 2 hours long so he have to save his voice to last the while show. You guys should check out the studio version. Thanks for doing this band. I'm a huge Iced Earth fan.
Great video. Iced Earth is awesome, especially the Matt Barlow albums. Dude is an incredible singer. You guys should set a half hour aside to listen to the Something Wicked Trilogy, which is as perfect a half hour of heavy metal as exists.
To echo what others have said - This is a song from an album with a previous higher-pitched and IMO inferior vocalist. Matt Barlow here is emulating his high vocals. His own natural range is much lower - a baritone. Try the Coming Curse for an awesome Thrashy ride with his vocals in a more idiomatic setting, or Damien for Iced Earth in a mid-paced stompy riff-fest. He sounds positively evil in those.
I wasn't sure if this day would come. My fav band is finally on the channel. Thanks dudes. Don't let the vocals turn you off from iced earth. They have plenty of songs that dont feature those types of vocals. Ya gotta do dantes inferno from alive in athens next. Maybe during the thrash week?
FINALLY!!!!! 😍 These guys deserve SO much more recognition than they get. Matt’s voice will definitely grow on you if you listen to them more. Listen to their “Burnt Offerings” album and you’ll get it. BUT you have to hear Stu and Ripper’s stuff too. Love your channel guys 💗
Good pick ancient ruins official, this one really takes me back was and to an extent still is my favorite band. I love how intricate the opens are and how iced earth sync them to the double bass drum this is something I try to emulate in my song writing. Lost in Vargas do yourselves a favor and cheek out dantes inferno by iced earth also from the alive in Athens gig
Guys...I agree you MUST do another Iced Earth song and it must be Dante's Inferno. Their masterpiece....
Yes
WHAT THIS GUY SAID !
Have you ever watched a 3-days-long reaction video? Because that's how you get a 3-days-long reaction video
@@achi-leanathlos8376 By my logic, this 9 minute song has a 25 minute reaction. So a 16 minute song would have a 44 minute reaction.
Live as well!!
Do it! With 'Pierced Spirit' as the intro.
Matt Barlow has an insane vocal range. In this song he sings in high notes because the original singer sang in high notes. If you want to understand the depth of his voice you should listen to Dante's Inferno which also has some of the most iconic Iced Earth riffs
yeeess! dante's inferno is a must
🔥🔥Dante's inferno🔥🔥 is definitely the next one we gotta push for😎🤘
@@ancientruinsofficial thank you for your persistency for this reaction video!
Important comment! I'd also suggest some of the "Something wicked" songs. Those were specifically written for Matt and transport an epic atmosphere, too! Go for "The coming curse"!!!
Or Dracula.
Jon Shaeffer is one of the tighest rhythm guitarists, period.
The stamina on his right hand is freaking legendary.
I've seen Iced Earth probably 5-6 times (Demonds & Wizards twice) and Jon is the tightest guitar player I've ever seen.
I swear ive been listening to them for maybe 12-15 years, and I have looked for something, in that amount of time, that can compete with his playing. There. Is. None.
LEH-GEN-DAIR-EE!!
@@Jeffreyfbr88 Jeff Loomis check early nevermore
Also known as the Granite Groove
Iced Earth are unique. And we really love them here in Greece. For us, they are something more than just a band. They are like a footbal club.
Jon Shaeffer mentioned that in an interview. You guys are crazy for them in the most impressive way.
Well they based most of their records on your awesome mythology.
😝😝😝🤘🤘🤘
That's awesome! Cheers from the us!
"Alive in Athens" is the best LIVE album I have ever heard. It made me appreciate some the early songs of Iced Earth because there in Athens they sounded better than the album versions. I am Bulgarian, many of my friends were at the concert. Now I regret I did not go.
What can I say? "Alive In Athens" is simply one of the best live albums ever recorded. That's a fact!
I agree. I’m not normally a fan of live albums because of the recordings and how they sound. But alive in Athens is literally one of the best heavy metal live albums ever recorded.
Oh no doubt. That album is perfection from start to finish.
STORMRIDER!!!!
@@kyleadams1655 the good band makes difference when theyre live. On CDs everyone has a nice sound, you should show that when its live 😃
Iced Earth - Dante's Inferno will satisfy you're appreciation of fast riffs 🙌😊
And some of their BEST ones!
Was gonna post this. That whole album is full of tasty riffs, but that track is packed with riffs by itself.
Matt Barlow is a legendary vocalist. If you want to hear the beauty in his voice, try Melancholy (Holy Martyr). Iced Earth with Matt Barlow has so many classics so hopefully you guys do a poll or two for them in the future.
Great tune. i was just about to suggest Melancholy. Everyone who hears it for the first time loves it.
My vote is on Damien. The song is epic from all angles and Matt Barlow's range really comes through while maintaining some aggression. Melancholy is great too though😀
A Question of Heaven, is my vote.
Watching over me
Matt Barlow wasn't in Iced Earth when Travel In Stygian was first recorded. It feels like it was written for him though. He f'ing owned it.
No man! The rhytm guitar player Jon Schaffer NEVER misses! He is actually the leader of the band and it is known to be very demanding with the musicians he hire for the band. Another great song is Drácula, check out a live version!
He's basically a guitarist specialised in rhythm.
He NEVER misses.
I did witness a messup from Brent when I saw them live in Orlando. It threw the guys off a little but over all the show was awesome!
@@kitcorpse we are talking about Schaffer
@@aranox when one man messes up in a band, the others usually follow suit....
Iced earth-Dantes inferno alive in Athens,
Iced Earth - “Dante’s Inferno” 🤘 Super underrated band!!!!
Travel in Stygian and Dante’s Inferno are damn masterpieces.
Anything from Iced Earth with Barlow is absolutely phenomenon
I would have preferred Dante's Inferno
Nah those suck just as much as this. Barlow blows
J Smith this is way better than Dante’s inferno
@@matthewdevon1923 okay, name literally any other vocalist who could pull off Dracula
This is one of the most underrated metal bands in the world.
psychotic waltz is
@@Jester1411 I said one of the most underated , and that would be my opinion , so why do you feel the need to debate on my comment.
@@motoguy7281 why not?
Yes
I got to meet them last year at a show. Got to talk to Jon for a while and he is such a cool dude...
The vocalist, Matt Barlow, is definitely one of the greatest Metal singers of all time. Ridiculous vocal range, powerful and unique. He sounds different even when doing this high pitch voice that you don't like in other songs.
If you wanna know what I'm talking about, check Dracula - Wolf - Damien. All these 3 are AMAZING songs.
Definitely do "Iced Earth - Dantes Inferno" (Alive in Athens).
I know that it's all a matter of taste but Matt Barlow will always be the voice of Iced Earth.
I loved Ripper and Stu.. But yes.. Barlow will always be the "voice" of IE
100% agree
Also agreeing with u there. :)@@TheLegionsOfMetal
ICED EARTH!!! You guys have no idea how much it means to me for you to review such a legendary, dedicated, hard working band. I love Iced Earth and I love you guys for this reaction video. In answer to your question about the guitarists, Jon Schaffer is the leader (founding member), song writer, back up vocalist, and rhythm guitarist -he's the one playing the B.C. Rich. The lead guitarist at this time was a very young and inexperienced, but still solid performer Larry Tarnowski. The solo and melodic passages he played were originally performed by Randall Schawver who was with the band from 1989 until 1997.
There are two rhythm guitarists who influenced my playing the most.. James Hetfield and John Schaffer!!
John Schaffer is so overlooked as a rhythm guitarist. His right hand is insane!! He's right there with James from Metallica!
Shaffer has the most articulate picking hand in the biz!!!!
James Hetfield couldn't hold a candle to Jon's gallops
@@artvandelay7608 I won't disagree with that..
Schaffer > Hetfield
Hetfield is one of Schaffer’s biggest influences.
More Iced Earth please!!! React to A Question of Heaven \m/ :D :D
repeat for the past 17 years :) that version of the song is what IE is for me
One of their best songs.
I've been requesting that forever....
Such an emotional song. I actually shed a tear listening to it.
Yea definitely this
Matt Barlow is considered by many metalheads to be one of the greatest metal vocalists. He is certainly one of my favorites. I love these high vocals with power and an edge to them. He is actually semi-retired now from music. He is a full time law enforcement officer now. He does have a project called Ashes of Ares that he sings for, but they don't do much in the way of touring.
That's awesome that he moved on to law enforcement! Good for him 🤘
He also has another project called We are Sentinels
@@kitcorpse That one is not very "metal" though. LOL!
@@Preacher357 Metal or not, he's still active in music.
Damn, what a great live singer. CD's don't do his vocals justice.
WHERE IS “DEATH” Spiritual healing??? Cmon let’s hear it!!!! 🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘🔥🔥🔥🔥
Matt Barlow is one of the best vocalists of all time. Another good one for his voice is the song Dante’s Inferno
😎👌👌👌
I was at that show (yes, I'm that old), it was a killer two nights and they played better than any time I've seen them since. Bad news is that I pretty much grew up in that club and now it is a super market.
I have no idea why but Iced Earth was arguably as big as Metallica in Greece during the 90s, I was actually shocked to learn that was not the case globally.
I've never seen Iced Earth with Barlow only with Tim Owens and Stu block😭😭😭🥺🥺😭... And you're telling me you got to see the Alive in Athens show🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯🤯 You witnessed the greatest metal show of all time😝🤘
@@ancientruinsofficial Glad you like it man, it was intense from start to finish.
@@MrMortadelas I'm over here in the states and while they aren't AS big as Metallica over here(even though they honestly should be) but there is most definitely an appreciation atleast among the metal community... Iced Earth(Barlow era) is kinda like Nevermore or Opeth.... even if you aren't into them as a metalhead you respect the shit outta them.
Can you remember if there was a reason STTD/AQOH was left off the DVD version? Technical difficulties or something? It could have just been a screw up when Century Media threw it together, but were there any shenanigans during the concert, do you recall?
One Zook Nation it’s because those songs happened to fall during a tape change. This was before everything was digital. This wasn’t even supposed to be officially released as a video. Century Media released it against the band’s wishes.
Been a while since I've listened to Iced Earth! Happy to see this 🤘🤘
Next: Iced Earth “Dracula”..
This
Love that song!!
Yeessssssss
"I want to be known as the riff master. I want to come out and play a 5 second riff and I bow and then I leave."
Congratulations, you've discovered grindcore.
Hahahaha
HahaHa
Hahahaha
HaHaHaha
I love Iced Earth. Matt Barlow is an incredible vocalist.
Check out “Dracula” and “Dante’s Inferno”.
I always think of them as being a thrash band that plays power metal. John Schaffer is such a great guitarist with a clear love for James Hetfield’s rhythms, but he loves the penmanship of Iron Maiden.
the phanton opera ghost
Iced Earth is why I started playing guitar. Thanks for covering this fellas!
Same here. My goal was to learn every song from alive in athens haha.
@@lakabaka Did your hand fall off yet lol. I can play a few but none of the ultra fast shit like this song.
The reason why the singer is going so high is because the original singer in 91 sang it high (and it sounded terrible back then). The songs composed to the singer's voice on this video (Matt Barlow) tend to highlight the baritone of the singer. Prepare to get comments on your comments on the singer because the metal community holds him as a high water mark lol.
Also, you pointing out Candlemass, Maiden, and King Diamond is super on point; the guitarist has gone on record many times citing them among his influences.
Now go through my history and see how many times I've requested Orphaned Land - Ocean Land ☹
The solo in ocean land is absolutely legendary🔥👌🤘
Yes, yes, yes... Barlow is an amazing vocalist and this song doesnt even represent his ability. Trust this man, just read the comments. Ya'll better come back with some of Matt Barlow's og songs.
John Greely horrible? I get finding Gene Adams bad (listen to Schaeffer's Purgatory .he is MUCH better now) but Greely? He was their best along with Barlow. Others pale in comparison to Greely and Barlow. Listen to the original recordings of NOTS and not that shitty plastic drums "Dark Genesis" remaster. Schaffer removed some parts of Greely's brutal high screams in the remaster like shortening that high screams after "the henchmen awaits you" part. You think his vocals are bad because the remaster is BAD not Greely. Century's Media also reissues the original recordings of the first three records a few years ago on vinyl and cd. No need for those other remasters. They are only good for the art (original "Burnt Offerings" art is better...that remaster art is corny) and "Tribute to the Gods". Personally, While Matt was the heart of the band, aside from "Alive In Athens", Jon had been phoning it in riff wise since "Something Wicked..". I like the album's after "The Dark Saga", but some of the songs begin to sound the same. Iced Earth was better with the first four album's because of....RANDALL SHAWVER! Iced Earth just sound corny nowadays. The thrash is gone...too many ballads. I prefer Demons and Wizards at this point. They are how Iced Earth used to be...power and agression with a good balance of emotion. Why can't Jon do that with I.E. anymore? Looking forward to the new album. Jon Schaffer's Purgatory is great too...a symbol of what is missing from current I.E.
@@archangelofcoffee922 True. Wrong choice of words. Thanks for the great comment. ✌
Just fyi, they do not mess up. This is the most perfect live performance in human history.
Truth!! They are the most tightest live band I’ve ever witnessed !!
Legit tho.
In 1999 I was 17 years old and I had to lie to my mother to manage to go this gig (actually both nights) AMAZING experience. Thank you @Ancient Ruins Official for the memories
Oh guys you definitely need to check their song, Dante's Inferno. You are gonna love the riffs and tempo changes. Greetings from Greece
Whelp... looks like it's time for some Demons and Wizards now!
Dorian
🔥🤘🔥🤘🤘🔥🔥🤘🔥🤘
Edward Taylor Beneath these Waves
Fiddler on the green!
"Dorian." These cats will eat that shit up like sugar. It was my favorite from the two albums ... I cannot wait for my finger bones to get ahold of the next D&W album.
I truly believe that Iced Earth can be credited, at least partially, for bringing metal back to the forefront in the US.
Back in the 90's Iced earth was alone in their own category, there was no other band like them.
That could be said about Testament as well
@@gregorp8406 Wrong, Testament had the company of many classic band back in the 80's.
There's still no band that's truly like them
Helloween? Kamelot? Savatage? Blind Guardian?
John Schaffer is one of the most underrated guitarist and song writers in the metal community. I think you'd really dig Demons and Wizards (his other project) as he pairs with one of the most underrated singers and song writers in the metal community (Hansi Kursch from Blind Guardian).
John is awesome. As Matt is, although I would have suggested another song to get into Iced Earth. Dante's Inferno from Athen would have been awesome.
Also - Sons of Anarchy is also another project of his.
It's Son's of Liberty.
Demons and Wizards is amazing, Fiddler on The Green is one of my favorite songs of all time.
Thank you for this reaction. Iced Earth are a very talented and highly underrated metal band. They're one of the few rare bands who's live performances sound just like the album version..very hard to do. They have a huge catalog of great songs.
Hey guys, to answer some of your questions:
1. They don't mess up. That's what professionals do. They're THAT good.
2. The "lead" guitarist is the one who does the solos. The "rhythm" guitarist, is the one who does most of the song's rhythms under the solos. Jon Schaffer is the rhythm guitarist. This is HIS band. He wrote the riffs to all the songs. He's the one you're referring to as the "lead" guitarist.
3. Iced Earth is considered "Power Thrash" because of the speed of their songs, and the lyrical matter of the songs.
I agree with everyone else, Dante's Inferno is THE quintessential Iced Earth song.
Also, Demons & Wizards is a super group made by Jon Schaffer of Iced Earth (guitars), and Hansi Kirsch of Blind Guardian (singer). I'd highly recommend checking them out. If you like TIS, you should start with "Blood on my Hands"
Yas, Blood On My Hands is amazing.
When I was a teen, the local record store was taking down Alive In Athens posters. I asked if I could have one, they gave me one. Hung it up in my room cuz I loved the artwork. Then later bought the album from the same store, and that’s how I fell in love with Iced Earth (that’s my cool story bros)
Was a sick album cover
Dante's Inferno and A Question of Heaven! More Iced Earth!! Thank you guys!
You guys are crazy. The vocalist is a legend
That's what I was thinking. Flawless live performance.
Imagine requesting an Iced Earth song that isn’t “Dante’s Inferno”
With Matt OR with Stu, both are masterpieces
I woulda picked Pure Evil
Frank Kirmse The original with Matt of course!
Frank Kirmse Matt is the man, but Stu kills it on “Dante’s Inferno”. Can’t go wrong with either version. I’d like them go with the Stu version on this one.
Dante's Inferno is their masterpiece. I envy people that experience it for the first time.
YES!!!! MORE Iced Earth please!!!!
Thank you Ancient Ruins Official for requesting that amazing Iced Earth song. Would love to see more Iced Earth songs on here as well.
I had the privilege of seeing these guys in a small club in Anaheim in 1999 with Nevermore as co-headliners.
There was maybe 60 people in the crowd and both bands played like it was the Rose Bowl.
I’ve been to 300+ shows and to this day this is best sounding show I’ve ever heard.
They sound better than the studio. Matt Barlow is one of the 3 best metal vocalists of all time.
Iced earth - Dante's Inferno live in Athens guys!!! Its legendaryyyyyy and the riffs will blow you away man
I got to see these guys about 11 years ago in a small club in Asheville NC. They were awesome. They were so loud that you could not even think. Their sound absolutely pummelled you. When I got home the next day I had to clean dried blood out of my ears.
Finally! Dante's Inferno next! It's a must >:D 🤘
best band ever ...at least for us the greeks!!!
One of the best live albums EVER! I love this version of this song. So much energy and intensity.
YEEAAAHHH!! Finally . You should react to more ICED EARTH
Damn guys, how could you not like Matt Barlows absolutely legendary vocals?!
This song is probably not the best to showcase his voice though... Perhaps the worst... To me, he's the best metal singer in all times!
Because they’re super cheesy and annoying?
@@matthewdevon1923 O, R they?
@@luisjalabert8366 I don't think I agree. If anything, I'd say Travel in Stygian is one of the best showcases of his range, because it has extremely high, powerful notes that most singers couldn't dream of holding like Matt does, it has passages of his strong mid-range, and it has extremely low passages. It encompasses nearly his whole vocal range in one song, and some of the best notes he's ever hit.
I think the problem is that they're hearing his high register and they're not hearing it as part of a range, they're just reading it as "This guy screeches really high pitched and whatever." but it's not remotely like that. And it saddens me that they pay no attention to the range he shows at all, demonstrating that his high notes are a choice he's making, and not just like, a gimmick or something.
@@TribulationGuild yeah... idk man, that was kinda my point... if you only listen to this song, it seems that this "demon voice" would be his "normal" way of singing, which is NOT. And it's ok if you love it, for me it's probably the worst example.
finally guys!!! some iced earth, john schaffer (the guitarist) is the absolute master of riffing, and matt barlow one of the best singers in metal history, i would like to see some reactions of dante's inferno and burnt offerings songs from the burnt offerings album, i was in that 1999 concert by the way, it was awesome!!!
Jon Schaffer is an amazing musician. I've seen him 3 times (twice with Iced Earth and recently with his other band Demons and Wizards). The first time I saw him I got to meet him. Not only an awesome guitar player but a super nice, humble, down to Earth guy. Exactly how you'd imagine him to be.
he sure is
One of the greatest iced earth songs.....they didn't mess up on this whole album . Their rhythms are ultra clean and tight . Iced earth are big fans of Iron Maiden
Dante’s Inferno
Blessed Are You
Pure Evil
Prophecy
All from Alive in Athens!
People already said. From the same show, Dante's inferno is the one song to listen. Just do it.
Saw Iced Earth a few years back in Chicago in a small club. They were so loud that the sound vibration shook my body man. That's a real metal show!🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘
I got a mild concussion from soilwork once.
Same thing when they played in St Louis in 2004, i could feel my ribs vibrating ,at the end of the show it felt like i had been punched in the chest.....
.... with a truck
🤘🤘
Can't go wrong with any song on Alive in Athens! Phenomenal album.
“I Died For You” from ICED EARTH is an amazing song.
If Barlow's voice is too high, imagine what he'd think about Owens.
From a huge Ripper fan, they would be blown away 😆😆. Tim lives 5 min away from me, so I'm totally biased 🤘🤘
@@brian99xt…. What about Midnight?
Owens voice lends itself a lot better for the high pitch though.
Awww man, you guys finally did Iced Earth, and it's not Dante's Inferno?!?! :(
For me it´s The Coming Curse
Personally I got a soft spot for the *Something Wicked* trilogy, it's what got me into the band. Dante's Inferno is also awesome though
@@MrKorton That's a great song too, and would love them to do that as well. I just say Dante's Inferno for obvious reasons. Not only is it an amazing song, but it has EVERYTHING, so it's really the best showcase of the band lol.
@@LedPESRule Those are fantastic songs too. I doubt they'd do all 3 at once though. They could do the whole something wicked story with the trilogy and both albums! that would take forever though lol.
Did you suggest Dante’s Inferno constantly for 2 years? Didn’t think so. Not as dedicated as Ancient Ruins 🙇🏼
I really hope you guys revisit iced earth they are a colossally talented band.
Musically this song knocked my socks off. Can't deal with that kind of vocal though.
@@justincorwin916 if you look around their catalogue they have a lot of different styles. Some are straight up growls and others are quiet it's a mixed bag as far vocals are concerned.
I personally liked later iced earth over the early stuff. His voice is deeper and not so screechy.
@@jeremyhenson6889 care to recommend a song for me to check out?
@@justincorwin916 I'll recommend you some of my favorites as well..
The Hunter, Question of Heaven, Reaping Stone, and Colors
I am now going to check out Iced Earth. Thank you so much Ancient Ruins Official as well as Ryan and George.
Alive in Athens is IE's definitive live performance. Alot of people will dismiss barlow's work but he did an incredible job putting his own take on the greely tracks.
This is prime Iced Earth, everyone was young.
i truly dont understand how this singers voice is "different" it s a straight up amazing voice if you ask me
I just think they don't like the higher-register vocals that most power metal bands have
Come on, man. You legitimately CAN'T understand how Barlow's voice can be a lot for most people to deal with? There's an amazing amount of talent and range there for sure, but I can certainly understand how most people would find this singing style to be very, very cheesy. I don't understand how YOU don't understand that.
@@travistotle they never said it was cheesy, they just said they didn't think it was very good. Which is nonsense. But I'm not suprised. They don't like high vocals. They are really super picky about vocals.
@@khellendross3573 I think they're about as "picky" about vocals as the average person is. Metal generally has a pretty big barrier of entry, and the vocals are usually one of the biggest things that can turn a person off. Whether it's super high-pitched wailing or guttural screaming, let's not pretend like metal vocals have very accessible appeal. And I would say these dudes are much LESS picky about vocals than your average person, considering how many different genres they listen to and the whole free-thinkers aspect of their channel.
@@travistotle Its just not really true. When you look at other metal reaction channels they are alot less open minded. Even from a musical standpoint. They complain if things get to "proggy". But the reason why I sub to them on patreon and here is cause for all that they are very fair minded in their criticism usually. They are pretty careful to concede their bias towards certain things. They may not be free thinking in practice, but in spirit. Metal having a barrier of entry is relative. If you grew up around rap, it has a low barrier of entry, if not then the barrier of entry is very high. So yea, to me, this is very accessible metal, but I grew up listening to rock and metal. Not much of a barrier. Now black metal, that has a barrier of entry. Even for metal fans. Same with death metal (though melodic death metal is a good entry point).
Travel in Stigyan? What a surprise! Really cool!
Well now there is no turning back for you guys..gotta do Dantes inferno,from same concert, same DVD!!!
The little known fact about these bands is that they are headbanging only so they can smell that sweet Strawberry Suave shampoo.
Lmao!
YESSS!!!!!! I'm so glad you guys picked Iced Earth, and Travel in Stygian is a fantastic example of what Schaffer and Barlow can do together!
Matt Barlow is a god!
Great reaction! But if you want to listen to the real voice range of barllow you have to react to a queation of heaven by iced earth.
On the other hand if you love riffs listen to dantes inferno live in athens
Yesssss. A question of heaven is an amazing track. His vocals on that song gives me chills.
Yes Question of heaven showcases more of Matt Barlow's range. I personally think Damien should be the next reaction before they hit anything else.
They have a massive catalog of music with varying themed albums
Dracula From Iced Earth is my all time favorite song from the band.
This is indeed world-class rhythm guitar playing, and the whole band was on an amazing level of precision at that concert.
Travel in Stygian isn't a song written with Barlow in the band, that was just him attempting to match the previous vocalist. He's a baritone, and most of his songs highlight that.
You should also check out Stormrider from the same live! It's just amazing!
Jon Shaeffer, the rhythm guitarist, really drives the tempo and the band. Dante's Inferno Live in Athens version next please!!!!! EPIC!!!!
Ah, the golden Iced Earth lineup, I miss it so much.
Guys, thank you for giving your fan what he has been requesting for so long! That is awesome of you. And giving this song the respect it deserves! Mad respect guys!
Jon Schaffer is a riff lord. !,,! Thank you Ancient Ruins Official!
"Damien" is an incredibly epic Iced Earth tune. It's from the perspective of the little kid in "The Omen".
I loved Iced Earth, so I'm glad you guys did this for him.
Although, I Died For You is their best song.
🤣😂
You misspelled Dante's Inferno. Anyone who knows Iced Earth knows that's D I is their masterpiece!
Hahaha they're hooked. This is Iced Earth guys and they have a big list of hits.
Guys the lead guitarist on this live set was Larry Tarnowski who had played on a few of the previous studio albums. He was always stage left (or stage right as we look at it) so the camera guys tended to ignore him and focus on the singer and Jon Schaffer on the rhythm guitar
Judas Priest - Beyond the Realms of Death , Touch of Evil still waiting bruh
Mustafa Koç 🤘🤘
Dying for a Touch of Evil... or Electric Eye
Electric_Eye They did Electric Eye already. I think it may be on Patreon. But Touch of Evil would be awesome!
Yes!! They need to do more judas priest
@@facelessandnameless Damn. I didn't know, since I don't have a Patreon :(
Easily one of the best live albums of all time. Bad ass all the way to the end.
Stoked that you guys doing Iced Earth, i loved this band when i was younger. Alive in Athens is dope as f and cool that you started off with a song from it, but a liiiiiiiiiiiiittle dissapointed that first Iced Earth reaction is not Dantes Inferno. I think there will be plenty people that gonna request it so i have high hopes that Dantes Inferno is your next reaction. Anyways love your work guys, ive been a fan since you released the Holy wars video, and been a pateron sub since you guys started it up :)
Guys - 30 years of music, my favourite Heavy Metal band - they are a legend!!!!
Thank you guys! You guys are awesome. Keep doing this stuff!
HAVOK - FROM THE CRADLE TO THE GRAVE (Music Video)
Yessssssss you guys should do a question of heaven or the Gettysburg trilogy 🚨🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘
Absolutely the Gettysburg Trilogy!!!! Such an amazing interpretation!
Gettysburg would be insane 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🍺🤘
You should do Iced Earth’s Something Wicked This Way Comes three-parter.
That song was written for the bands previous singer, so Mat Barlow had to improvise his voice for this specific performance. Plus this concert was like 2 hours long so he have to save his voice to last the while show. You guys should check out the studio version. Thanks for doing this band. I'm a huge Iced Earth fan.
"Declaration Day" is another you must do. Tim "Ripper" Owens is amazing.
Great video. Iced Earth is awesome, especially the Matt Barlow albums. Dude is an incredible singer. You guys should set a half hour aside to listen to the Something Wicked Trilogy, which is as perfect a half hour of heavy metal as exists.
To echo what others have said - This is a song from an album with a previous higher-pitched and IMO inferior vocalist. Matt Barlow here is emulating his high vocals. His own natural range is much lower - a baritone. Try the Coming Curse for an awesome Thrashy ride with his vocals in a more idiomatic setting, or Damien for Iced Earth in a mid-paced stompy riff-fest. He sounds positively evil in those.
I wasn't sure if this day would come. My fav band is finally on the channel. Thanks dudes. Don't let the vocals turn you off from iced earth. They have plenty of songs that dont feature those types of vocals. Ya gotta do dantes inferno from alive in athens next. Maybe during the thrash week?
FINALLY!!!!! 😍 These guys deserve SO much more recognition than they get. Matt’s voice will definitely grow on you if you listen to them more. Listen to their “Burnt Offerings” album and you’ll get it. BUT you have to hear Stu and Ripper’s stuff too. Love your channel guys 💗
More Iced Earth please! Dante's Inferno form Alive in Athens!
Good pick ancient ruins official, this one really takes me back was and to an extent still is my favorite band. I love how intricate the opens are and how iced earth sync them to the double bass drum this is something I try to emulate in my song writing. Lost in Vargas do yourselves a favor and cheek out dantes inferno by iced earth also from the alive in Athens gig