Album Review: Wings by Azazello – A Wild Ride Through Progressive Metal and Prog Rock
Alright, let’s talk about Wings by Azazello. Released back in 2003, this Italian-Russian mashup of progressive metal and prog rock is one of those albums that sneaks up on you when you least expect it. It’s not perfect, but man, does it have personality. With a lineup featuring Alexander Kulak pulling double (or triple?) duty on vocals, guitar, engineering, AND producing, plus the multi-talented Vitos Afanasiev handling keys, flute, and backing vocals, this thing feels like a labor of love. And honestly? That’s what makes it stick.
The album kicks off with "The Abyss," which is exactly the kind of track you’d hope for from a prog-metal band. Heavy riffs? Check. Keyboards doing their best to sound like they’re summoning ancient gods? Double check. What really got me though was how dynamic it felt—it starts out all brooding and dark, then BAM, slams into this soaring chorus that just doesn’t quit. I mean, who wouldn’t want to crank this while driving through some foggy mountains at midnight? It’s cinematic as hell without being cheesy.
Then there’s “Spring Forest,” which is probably my favorite cut on the record. If you’re into stuff that’s more chill but still packs an emotional punch, this one’s for you. The flute solo by Vitos Afanasiev adds this weirdly magical vibe—like you’ve stumbled into some enchanted woods where time moves slower. Honestly, I didn’t think I needed a flute in my life until now. Pair that with Dmitry Bakay’s basslines holding everything together, and you’ve got a song that feels both grounded and otherworldly. It’s the kind of tune that makes you stop whatever you’re doing and just… listen.
Now, full disclosure, not every track hits the same way. Some songs feel a bit overcooked or drag on longer than necessary (looking at you, “Inevitability”). But hey, isn’t that kinda the point of prog? You take risks, and sometimes they pay off big time, and other times you end up scratching your head. Still, even the weaker moments are interesting enough to keep you hooked.
One thing worth mentioning is the production. For something released in 2003, it holds up surprisingly well. Mastered by Igor Lobanov, the mix gives each instrument room to breathe, which is crucial for a genre that throws so much at you at once. Kudos to Kulak and Bakay for keeping things tight behind the scenes.
So yeah, Wings might not change your life, but it’ll definitely give you something to chew on. Between its heavy-hitting jams and softer, introspective pieces, it’s got range. Plus, hearing Russian and Italian influences blend together under the banner of prog rock is just cool as heck.
Final thought? This album reminds me of why people get obsessed with music in the first place—it’s messy, ambitious, and unapologetically itself. Oh, and fun fact: if you ever meet someone who claims to hate prog rock, play them “Spring Forest.” Chances are, they’ll secretly love it. Or maybe they won’t. Either way, good luck convincing them!
