Crimson Glory

Crimson Glory is an American progressive metal band that formed in 1979 under the name Pierced Arrow (later changed to 'Beowulf').
Crimson Glory - The Story of One of the Most Underrated Bands in the History of Heavy Metal
When it comes to heavy metal music, there are few bands that can hold a candle to Crimson Glory. Despite being active for over two decades, this Floridian band never quite received the recognition that they deserved. Nevertheless, their impact on the genre is undeniable, and their legacy lives on to this day. In this blog post, we will take a look at the musical biography of Crimson Glory, discuss some of their best songs, explore their genre and famous concerts, and provide a critical assessment of their work.
Crimson Glory was formed in 1979 as 'Pierced Arrow' but changed their names to 'Beowulf' and then to 'Gypsy' before finally settling on Crimson Glory. In the early days, they were heavily influenced by bands like Iron Maiden and Judas Priest, but they quickly developed a unique style that set them apart from their peers. In 1986, they released their self-titled debut album, which received rave reviews and positioned them as one of the most promising new acts in heavy metal.
One of the defining characteristics of Crimson Glory's music is the soaring vocals of lead singer Midnight (real name John Patrick McDonald). His operatic voice, which was often compared to that of Geoff Tate from Queensrÿche, gave the band a grandiose and theatrical feel. Some of their best songs, such as 'Masque of the Red Death' and 'Valhalla', showcase Midnight's incredible range and power. The band's musicianship was also top-notch, with guitarists Jon Drenning and Ben Jackson creating intricate and memorable riffs and solos.
Crimson Glory can be classified as a progressive metal band, although their music also incorporated elements of power metal, heavy metal, and even glam metal at times. Their sound was characterized by complex song structures, harmonized guitar lines, and lush keyboard arrangements. They were also known for their elaborate stage shows, which featured elaborate costumes, pyrotechnics, and stage props. The band's most famous concert was probably their performance at the 1988 Monsters of Rock festival in Donington, England, where they played alongside giants like Iron Maiden, KISS, and David Lee Roth.
Despite their undeniable talent and the critical acclaim they received, Crimson Glory never quite reached the commercial success that some of their peers did. Some have attributed this to their refusal to conform to industry standards, whereas others have pointed to their lack of a hit single or a more accessible sound. Nevertheless, their influence on the heavy metal genre cannot be overstated. Many bands have cited Crimson Glory as a major inspiration, and their music continues to be beloved by fans all over the world.
In conclusion, Crimson Glory is a band that deserves far more recognition than they ever received. Their unique sound, incredible musicianship, and memorable songs make them one of the most underrated bands in the history of heavy metal. Although they never achieved mainstream success, their impact on the genre is undeniable, and their legacy lives on through their music. So, if you're a fan of heavy metal and you haven't listened to Crimson Glory yet, now is the time to give them a chance and discover for yourself what makes this band so special.