SORROWFALL (IRE)

Chris Polin

Sorrowfall are an extreme progressive death metal band hailing from the Erin Isle. Formed in 2004, they quickly took the scene by storm and made a lasting impression on those caught in the way. Over the years, 2 demos and a highly acclaimed album surfaced from the band, and they have played with many big name acts such as Paradise Lost, Steve Grimmett’s Grim Reaper, Rotting Christ, Armored Saint, Thurisaz and more around Ireland, the UK and Europe.

Their debut album ‘Prayers of the Faithless’ has received critical acclaim, with Metalireland.com saying “We all know that Sorrowfall are an excellent band. Even given that compliment, 'Prayers of The Faithless' beats what could reasonably have been expected from them.” and Northern Blaze magazine: “Make no mistake about it, this is definitely a fine example of modern Metal and Sorrowfall are a band to watch in the future.”

In May 2009, due to musical differences Steve Reynolds (bass/vocals) left the band, and in his place stepped in long time friend Sam Best, to complete the line-up of Chris Collins (guitars), Conor ‘Eddie’ Edgar (drums) and Chris ‘Poley’ Polin (guitars).

The band has since taken a more progressive direction, with a more focused and mature sound, not least attributed to the addition of 7-string guitars. Having played with Paradise Lost in Belfast at the Full Metal Racket festival in April, Poley immediately ordered a Mayones Regius Pro 7 after witnessing first-hand the perfect sound and superior build quality of the Regius played by Greg Mackintosh. In addition to the standard features of the Regius 7, his custom options included an ash body, Floyd Rose 7 bridge, DiMarzio Paf 7 pickups and a larger contoured neck.

“I still can’t get over the sound of the guitar, it’s exactly as I’d envisioned and ten times better, and the coil tap is a lot of fun too. They got the neck depth absolutely perfect, and it virtually plays itself. Visually stunning to boot, it has everything I could wish for in a guitar. I’m a proud owner and I can’t wait to take it out for its debut stage performance.”