Chasing the Dream

Released in 2014, Chasing the Dream is the second full-length album from Canadian metal outfit Skull Fist and stands as a cornerstone of the New Wave of Traditional Heavy Metal (NWOTHM) movement. While their debut established their presence, this record refined their production, moving toward a crisper, more professional sound that highlights the intricate 'twin-lead' guitar work of Zach Slaughter and Jonny Nesta. The album is notable for its refusal to adopt modern 'core' influences, instead doubling down on the speed metal and power metal tropes of the early 80s. Critical reception was overwhelmingly positive within the metal underground, praising the band's ability to write genuine hooks amidst the technical shredding. The inclusion of the instrumental track 'Shred’s Not Dead' serves as a manifesto for the album's philosophy: technical skill used in service of high-energy entertainment. It remains the band's most commercially successful and culturally cited work.