Get ready to embark on a thrilling journey with British heavy metal band Venger, founded by Saxon guitarist Doug Scarratt and James Fogarty (of Old Forest, formerly In The Woods), featuring Franz Bauer (Roadwolf) and Sven Rothe (Nattehimmel). The band has just released their second single, “Navigate The Labyrinth”, taken from their debut studio album, Times Of Legend, set to drop on January 9 via Silver Lining Music. You can pre-order the album now at this location.
The video for “Navigate The Labyrinth” is a love letter to the world of classic heavy metal and 16-bit gaming, set in an imaginary console game from the world of Venger. Imagine a place where retro gaming is the ultimate form of home entertainment, and heavy metal reigns supreme.
According to Fogarty, “The video tells the story of when the band received a mysterious package from the 1980s; it contained an imaginary computer game detailing the story of Theseus and the Minotaur.” He explains, “You are Theseus, legendary warrior of Ancient Greece. Your love for the beautiful princess Ariadne has angered her father, King Minos! As punishment, you have been thrown into the Labyrinth; a subterranean maze filled with demons, goblins, and monsters. To complete your journey back to the light, you must find and battle the mighty Minotaur. Get ready for the fight of your life!”
In an era where the world is increasingly digital, Venger and their debut album, Times Of Legend, are a breath of fresh air, reminding us that engaging entertainment can be found in the realms of history, folklore, and fantasy. The band’s name, inspired by the one-horned sorcerer in the game Dungeons & Dragons, is a nod to their love of fantasy and mythology.
“It really is about the power of the story,” says Scarratt. “I’ve always loved anything connected with fantasy and movies. When it comes to entertainment, I want some escape!”
Written and produced by Scarratt and Fogarty, joined by drummer Sven Rothe and Franz Bauer on vocals, Times Of Legend is a unique collection of tales from a wide range of inspirations, shedding new musical light on figures and stories of old.
Although Venger are still working on their live plans, Scarratt and Fogarty are already thinking about future music. “We might delve into the even more atmospheric metal,” says Scarratt, “not as in ‘prog’ but maybe edging a little further out into the cinematic dimensions we both enjoy.”
For now, sit back, unplug, and enjoy turning the aural pages in Times Of Legend.
Tracklisting:
“From Worlds Unknown”
“Pharaoh’s Curse”
“Navigate The Labyrinth”
“Crystal Gazer”
“The Legend Still Remains”
“Séance”
“Throw The Switch”
“Impaler Of Souls”
“Tower Of Babel” (featuring Matt Mitchell on vocals)
“From Worlds Unknown” video:
Venger are:
Doug Scarratt – guitars, lead guitars
James Fogarty – guitars, synths, bass, backing vocals
Franz Bauer – vocals
Sven Rothe – drums
