Relic Kings

The Relic Kings opened the day with a fierce set of originals and I think the band sounds heavier and tight.

“I think we have done more shows in 2017 than ever before,” said vocalist Rob Faries. “As an independent band, we have to keep pushing it’s almost like you can’t take your foot of the gas.

“Everywhere we have been and now here in Timmins, we see more original material being performed. There seems to be much more appreciation for it and that’s a good thing for all musicians.

“We have a new video for ‘Good Times’ that we just released and trying to work to the next step of our career.”

- John Emms, June 27th, 2017 - Timmins Press

"Launching the day was Moose Factory Ontario’s Relic Kings’ performing tracks off their six-song EP, `Armoury’ recorded in Vancouver by ace producer Mike Fraser (AC/DC, Aerosmith). The four-some comprised of Rob Fairies, vocals, Michael Archibald (guitar), James Gunner (bass) and Jimmy McLeish (drums) have been making headway on the Ontario circuit, opening for Sam Roberts in Moose Factory and sharing the bill with Honeymoon Suite at the Phoenix in Toronto and show plenty of promise in making further headway."

- Keith Sharp, June 26th, 2017 - The Music Express

7.4/10

If you are into ACDC, this Canadian band from Moose Factory, ON is for you. Relic Kings (previously known as Black Stone) have released a new EP titled Armoury that is sure to catch the attention of those about to rock. They hit up Armoury Studios in British Columbia for a few weeks to record with the Juno award winning record producer Mike Fraser (ACDC, Led Zeppelin, Van Halen), creating an EP that will surely propel them to new heights.

Armoury begins with a trad rock guitar riff that seems pulled right out an ACDC riff collection bin. “The Drive” evolves in the same vein, offering audio textures from the drum and bass tracks that give this song an almost tribute-like sound. Production-wise, this record was expertly recorded and mixed. Everything sounds crisp and present, and the arranging of the various guitar parts also helps build up the song and keep it moving forward. Vocalist Rob Faries dishes out raspy vocals that are occasionally sung in French, a nice touch which I’ve rarely heard in this genre of music. “Take Me Higher” kicks off with a heavier guitar riff that leads to another track that immediately reminded me of a mix of ACDC and Guns & Roses. A guitar solo takes over near the end of the track, showcasing guitarist Michael Archibald’s shredding abilities.

Next is “Mettle,” a heavier track laden with down-tuned guitars and catchy riffs. Rob sings lines that reminded me of Lynch Mob’s penchant for uplifting melodies and feel good vibes. Harmonized vocals in the anthemic choruses help to elevate the band’s sound as they follow a tried and true rock formula. I particularly enjoyed the guitar tones on this song, drawing comparisons to Gordie Johnson’s sound heard on Big Sugar records. Fans of Slash and lovers of wah pedals will definitely enjoy the guitar solo in this song. “Good Times” follows with another boisterous track featuring palm-muted guitar chords in the verses and wide open chords played in the choruses. If you’re looking for good time music, press play. The guitar solo on this song was like hearing a mix of Angus Young and Eddie Van Halen–steeped in the blues, amped up in technical prowess. “This Poor Soul” continues in the same mood and brings forth harmonica solos I assume are played by the frontman (please correct me if I’m wrong). It becomes apparent that Relic Kings love playing feel-good music and want you to rock out with them.That’s great, and no doubt makes for a fun show, but a part of me would love to hear them stray further from the ACDC sound and tempos. The last track on Armoury is “Sleeping Dogs,” a song that begins with a rare clean guitar riff before heading right back to the blues rock sound these guys love.

Relic Kings know what they love, and they rock it well. If you’re looking for feel-good tunes that could open for ACDC and/or Guns & Roses, here they are. This Ontarian band have created an EP that would make for great party music that will surely be heard at hockey games, drag races and fairs across the country. My only concern with Armoury is the fact the songs are all very similar in mood, tempo, and audio textures. Although there are some great moments to be heard, I find it lacks originality and could come off as an ACDC clone. If you’re into that, dig in and rock your heart out.

- Dave Tone, September 6th, 2016 - Bucket List Music Reviews

"Relic Kings were in Studio A with producer/engineer Fraser and assistant engineer Bleasdale. The guys rocked so hard they blew a couple amp heads. Vocals were done in the main live room in a booth constructed out of the baffles"

- Lori Kennedy, August 6th, 2016 - Mix Professional Audio & Music Production