Band/Artist: Eric Clayton
Release House: Independent
Genre: Gothic Rock
One Sentence Synopsis: The long awaited solo album of Saviour Machine frontman, Eric Clayton
Series: Standalone
Single/EP/Album: Album
Release Date: 4-24-20
Running Time: 78 Min
MSRP: $16.51 (transferred from Euros)
Discount Link: Click Here
Website: Click Here
Sample/Music Video: Click Here
Purchase Site: Click Here
Reviewed by: Reverend Leviathan
Final Score: 5.0 Moons (Out of 5.0)
Eric Clayton is known primarily as the cofounder and frontman of the Gothic rock band Saviour Machine. Shortly after their last album Legend III: I was released in 2001, Eric disappeared from the scene for many years, aside from a couple of appearances here and there. But now, nineteen years later, the silence is lifted and he gives us a glimpse inside of his soul and the demons he was battling, resulting in A Thousand Scars.
Theme
First thing I wondered was how similar/different this was going to be to Saviour Machine. While there are some similarities such as Eric’s operatic baritone vocals, the Middle Eastern influence on a couple songs, and the somber Gothic atmosphere, it’s also quite different. There is more of a rock influence than metal, and the songs tend to be calmer and less heavy. And while Saviour Machine was more faith-based lyrically, Eric gives us a completely personal approach on this album, as he takes us through the story of his inner struggles and psyche.
Presentation
“The Space Between Us” opens with a message of faith, hope and love in a divided world. Eric would also reveal that it was an allegory about a man who was divided in himself, torn apart and then put back together; a great introduction to the story that he tells in the album. The guitars in “Where It Starts” are amazing, especially the melody in the beginning. I literally got chills. “In The Lines” is probably my favorite track. It’s one of the most somber songs and his vocals are more spoken word, and as an abuse victim it spoke to me. “Initiated,” another favorite, is an awesome song about indoctrination. The Middle Eastern influence in the music works extremely well with Eric’s vocals. More on the acoustic side, “A Thousand Scars” really moved me. The background choir makes this song one of the most beautiful on the album. And just as the album began, it ends with a message of faith hope and love, “And the Greatest of These” is love. “Love is a whisper, not a shout;” words to remember.
Eric succeeded in creating an entirely different project. Sometimes an artist will do something “different,” only to have it turn out to be the same thing rebranded. A Thousand Scars does not make that mistake. The melodies and the emotions that are flowing throughout the album are magnificent. There’s more than one tear jerker on the album showing that he still has it, especially with the more personal lyrics.
Audience Fit
I think fans of Saviour Machine will be those who appreciate this album most, as we’ve waited for something new from Eric for many years. I would also say it’s extremely appealing to those who are drawn to Gothic alternative rock and metal, with a touch of opera.
Closing Thoughts
Closing ThoughtsA Thousand Scars reminded me of why I fell in love with Eric’s voice and lyrics. A masterpiece of emotional, Gothic beauty that surpasses all expectations. Definitely in my Top 10 Favorites of 2020.
Theme: 5.0 Moons (out of 5.0)
Presentation: 5.0 Moons (out of 5.0)
Audience Fit: 5.0 Moons (out of 5.0)
Final Score (not an average): 5.0 Moons (out of 5.0)
