Album review: GALACTIC EMPIRE – S/T

Rise Records [Release date 03.02.17]

Galactic Empire caused a stir last year on YouTube with their version of the ‘Main Theme’ from ‘Star Wars’ – currently over 3m views and counting. Now they unleash a full album of their versions of the music from the iconic film and John Williams score. The band consists of Boba Sett (drums), Bass Commander (bass), Dark Vader (lead guitar), Shadow Ranger (guitar) and Red Guard (guitar). Subtle name changes but ‘Star Wars’ fans know who they mean ;-)

They have conjured up a good back story with Dark Vader commenting on the band’s playing for instance, “These instruments are crude but should be adequate to shred some faces as we journey across the galaxy.” And shred they do as the metal re-workings of the soundtrack works incredibly well, aided by the band’s high level of musicianship.

The rhythm section really provides a suitably menacing backbeat when required, for instance on the ’Imperial March’. The guitars match the original score perfectly and they have some fun on ‘Cantina Band’ with all manner of guitar effects. Be interesting to watch the film with the Galactic Empire’s album as the soundtrack.

We’ve heard from the Dark Side, now all we need is a Rebel Alliance take on things…until then ‘Star Wars’ and rock fans can enjoy this well played and enjoyable album. ****

Review by Jason Ritchie

Wed-1-Feb London 02 Academy Islington
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Power Plays w/c 9 December 2024

In this sequence we play ‘The Best of 2024′ GRTR! reviewer selections

Featured Albums w/c 9 December 2024

09:00-12:00 The Best of 2024 (Melodic Rock)
12:00-13:00 The Best of 2003-2024 (Melodic Hard Rock)
14:00-16:00 The Best of 2024 (Singer Songwriter)