Hello friends! We made it through another week and that definitely deserves a cheers. It is time to drink from the cup of heresy. This week’s offerings: Meridian Dawn‘s The Pagan Poetry EP and Saugatuck Brewing Company‘s Blueberry Maple Stout.
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The Tunes: Meridian Dawn – The Pagan Poetry EP
This was such a fun listen. The EP features three cover songs (“Pagan Poetry” originally by Bjork, “Dissolving Bonds” originally by Katatonia, “Sleepless Nights” originally by King Diamond) and two new songs by Meridian Dawn. The two originals are nested between covers and show listeners exactly what the band is about. Meridian Dawn describes themselves as a “melodic metal band composed of five friends who all have a love for the beautiful and savage.” These tracks have a perfect balance of just that with impeccable drumming, shredding guitar, and lightly growled musical vocals. This modern metal band excels at what they do and boldly took on the classics they covered. I was especially intrigued by the Katatonia remake as the band is a favorite of the Nine Circles family (looking at you, Hera). Meridian Dawn’s creative take on this track has an 80’s synth-pop feel with an orchestic opening. It has a very dreamy, light feel while also featuring some killer drumming and guitar solos. The “Sleepless Nights” cover more follows suit with the original by King Diamond with classic heavy metal elements while also adding a special Meridian Dawn touch of sultry clean vocals (and wistful interludes) mixed in with some melodic growls as well as more top-notch drumming. The Pagan Poetry EP is highly worth checking out to rediscover a love of some classic songs with new vibes as well as enjoy modern metal originals.
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The Booze: Saugatuck Brewing Company – Blueberry Maple Stout
Here I am again with another fruit-inspired stout. This one will you have you craving a stack of blueberry pancakes. Right off the bat, it tastes and feels like a stout—thick and dark with a strong malt flavor—then transitions into the sweetness of blueberries and maple. The balance is lovely and just enough to get the flavor without overpowering or tasting too sugary. The ABV is 6% which perfectly combats the maple and adds to the strong flavor profile. The aftertaste is a little smokey and reminds me of blueberry incense, which is a favorite summer night scent of mine. The beer smells just like it tastes with lightly roasted malts mixed with a hint of fresh blueberry and maple syrup. It is extremely drinkable and perfect for sitting around a bonfire.
Cheers and blessed be,
– Angela
Nine Circles 