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.
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"!!!
"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.
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 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.
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!
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.
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
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.
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.
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).
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 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.
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.
"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.
@@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.
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)
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"
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!!!
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.
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).
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
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 🤘🤘
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 :)
@@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.
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
@@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.
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.
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 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 my mates Luke Appleton, whom ive known for years and still see him round our home town of Manchester, and we drink in the local metal pub called Grand Central is the bassist in this band.
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.
Grew up in Delaware which is where Matt Barlow is from. He grew up in Georgetown Delaware and we went to the same high school. His grandmother was one of my teachers, and he is good friends with a good friend of mine and is often at his house. My wife met Barlow for the first time last year and we have seen the band in concert twice. Awesome dude, he left the band after the events of 9/11 to join the police force in Georgetown (wanted to do something to make a real difference) and lives there to this day. He has sung for the Delaware State police band and has formed a new band he is currently with. btw, he hasnt had that hair since 2001 Jon Schaffer is the lead guitar and the frontman. He is the primary writer and the leader of the band. He loves the triplets
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
Man honestly I’ve been subbed since the logic days, you guys have always been quality and consistent so good to see yous have grown to almost a mil sub!
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?
Allow me to be consistent, then, and repeat myself: This channel brings me a lot of joy because you often react to songs the exact same way I first did when I was getting into this stuff a dozen years ago. There's something cathartic about it. And, if you want to challenge yourself to like screamed vocals, I would try stuff like Strapping Young Lad's "Skeksis" of the album Alien, Devin Townsend's "Suicide" off of Accelerated Evolution, or Opeth's "The Drapery Falls" off of Blackwater Park. These were the first few songs with screamed vocals I ever liked or listened to, and your likes and dislikes in terms of metal tend to be more or less exactly the same as mine. (Speaking of shared tastes, I hope you guys are pumped for RTJ4?) More recently I've discovered a few bands with vocalists that kind of hit a mid-point between screamed and melodic in Death Angel and Norway's (NOT Sweden's-yes it's confusing) Shining. Death Angel's song Detonate off of "The Dream Calls for Blood" is not only a rare perfect song, but a really good case on why harsh vocals belong in metal. Shining's song Need off of "International Blackjazz Society" is a little more eccentric in its vocal performance, but still a really great example of harsh vocals adding to a song rather than taking away. I'm not saying do a video on all these songs; I'm saying if you guys are serious about trying to appreciate harsh vocals in these songs, just give one or two of these a listen in your downtime and see if our opinions more or less align. I think they will.
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.
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.
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
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.
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 😃
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....
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...
Iced Earth - “Dante’s Inferno” 🤘 Super underrated band!!!!
Iced earth-Dantes inferno alive in Athens,
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
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.
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.
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.
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.
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
Been a while since I've listened to Iced Earth! Happy to see this 🤘🤘
"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
Can't believe you're doing ICED EARTH!! Favorite band... EVER
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.
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
Matt Barlow is one of the best vocalists of all time. Another good one for his voice is the song Dante’s Inferno
😎👌👌👌
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
I truly believe that Iced Earth can be credited, at least partially, for bringing metal back to the forefront in the US.
YES!!!! MORE Iced Earth please!!!!
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.
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.
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.
Next: Iced Earth “Dracula”..
This
Love that song!!
Yeessssssss
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.
You guys are crazy. The vocalist is a legend
That's what I was thinking. Flawless live performance.
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.
The little known fact about these bands is that they are headbanging only so they can smell that sweet Strawberry Suave shampoo.
Lmao!
Damn, what a great live singer. CD's don't do his vocals justice.
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.
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.
Oh guys you definitely need to check their song, Dante's Inferno. You are gonna love the riffs and tempo changes. Greetings from Greece
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?
One of the best live albums EVER! I love this version of this song. So much energy and intensity.
Finally! Dante's Inferno next! It's a must >:D 🤘
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. ✌
Dante's Inferno and A Question of Heaven! More Iced Earth!! Thank you guys!
I am now going to check out Iced Earth. Thank you so much Ancient Ruins Official as well as Ryan and George.
Iced earth - Dante's Inferno live in Athens guys!!! Its legendaryyyyyy and the riffs will blow you away man
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 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
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
Thank you Ancient Ruins Official for requesting that amazing Iced Earth song. Would love to see more Iced Earth songs on here as well.
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.
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!!!
Travel in Stigyan? What a surprise! Really cool!
WHERE IS “DEATH” Spiritual healing??? Cmon let’s hear it!!!! 🤘🤘🤘🤘🤘🔥🔥🔥🔥
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.
YEEAAAHHH!! Finally . You should react to more ICED EARTH
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.
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).
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
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
🤘🤘
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 :)
Well now there is no turning back for you guys..gotta do Dantes inferno,from same concert, same DVD!!!
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!
“I Died For You” from ICED EARTH is an amazing song.
People already said. From the same show, Dante's inferno is the one song to listen. Just do it.
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 🙇🏼
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
Thank you guys! You guys are awesome. Keep doing this stuff!
I LOLed so hard when you said his hair might get caught! 😆
Can't go wrong with any song on Alive in Athens! Phenomenal album.
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.
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.
You guys are one of my favorite channels keep up the good work!!
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!
They have a massive catalog of music with varying themed albums
“Their hair is very long” I lost it on that one dude, lolll
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
Dracula From Iced Earth is my all time favorite song from the band.
one of my mates Luke Appleton, whom ive known for years and still see him round our home town of Manchester, and we drink in the local metal pub called Grand Central is the bassist in this band.
Dante’s Inferno
Blessed Are You
Pure Evil
Prophecy
All from Alive in Athens!
Matt Barlow is a god!
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.
i was in that concert. so many nice memories
Grew up in Delaware which is where Matt Barlow is from. He grew up in Georgetown Delaware and we went to the same high school. His grandmother was one of my teachers, and he is good friends with a good friend of mine and is often at his house. My wife met Barlow for the first time last year and we have seen the band in concert twice. Awesome dude, he left the band after the events of 9/11 to join the police force in Georgetown (wanted to do something to make a real difference) and lives there to this day. He has sung for the Delaware State police band and has formed a new band he is currently with. btw, he hasnt had that hair since 2001
Jon Schaffer is the lead guitar and the frontman. He is the primary writer and the leader of the band. He loves the triplets
Side Note. Barlow's new band is Ashes of Ares
You should also check out Stormrider from the same live! It's just amazing!
"Damien" is an incredibly epic Iced Earth tune. It's from the perspective of the little kid in "The Omen".
That expression on George’s face when a good riff is being playing....looks like he is constipated!! 😆😆😆😆
This is indeed world-class rhythm guitar playing, and the whole band was on an amazing level of precision at that concert.
Best live show ever! :D And this song is top 10! (on that show) I think u guys would love When the night falls
Jon Shaeffer, the rhythm guitarist, really drives the tempo and the band. Dante's Inferno Live in Athens version next please!!!!! EPIC!!!!
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
How about Albatross by Corrosion Of Conformity? I've been requesting that for over a year. 😀😀😀
I love this band
@@timmiller2913 I think that Ryan & George would enjoy that song.
Please !!!
Man honestly I’ve been subbed since the logic days, you guys have always been quality and consistent so good to see yous have grown to almost a mil sub!
"Declaration Day" is another you must do. Tim "Ripper" Owens is amazing.
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?
Allow me to be consistent, then, and repeat myself:
This channel brings me a lot of joy because you often react to songs the exact same way I first did when I was getting into this stuff a dozen years ago. There's something cathartic about it.
And, if you want to challenge yourself to like screamed vocals, I would try stuff like Strapping Young Lad's "Skeksis" of the album Alien, Devin Townsend's "Suicide" off of Accelerated Evolution, or Opeth's "The Drapery Falls" off of Blackwater Park. These were the first few songs with screamed vocals I ever liked or listened to, and your likes and dislikes in terms of metal tend to be more or less exactly the same as mine. (Speaking of shared tastes, I hope you guys are pumped for RTJ4?)
More recently I've discovered a few bands with vocalists that kind of hit a mid-point between screamed and melodic in Death Angel and Norway's (NOT Sweden's-yes it's confusing) Shining. Death Angel's song Detonate off of "The Dream Calls for Blood" is not only a rare perfect song, but a really good case on why harsh vocals belong in metal. Shining's song Need off of "International Blackjazz Society" is a little more eccentric in its vocal performance, but still a really great example of harsh vocals adding to a song rather than taking away.
I'm not saying do a video on all these songs; I'm saying if you guys are serious about trying to appreciate harsh vocals in these songs, just give one or two of these a listen in your downtime and see if our opinions more or less align. I think they will.
You should do Iced Earth’s Something Wicked This Way Comes three-parter.
I love that high pitched screaming and Iced Earth live is an experience that must be had by all!
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.
Jon Schaffer is a riff lord. !,,! Thank you Ancient Ruins Official!