Venom - Temples of Ice CD

By 1991, Venom had already weathered significant changes, and Temples of Ice marked their second album with Tony “Demolition Man” Dolan at the helm. While the record often lives in the shadow of both its predecessor Prime Evil and the band’s early classics, it deserves recognition as a bold and creative effort that shows Venom’s adaptability in a shifting metal landscape.

The album thrives on a strong balance between heavy, aggressive riffing and a more streamlined songwriting approach. Mantas once again proves his ability to craft memorable guitar parts, ranging from tight thrash-driven riffs to soaring, expressive solos that give the songs extra bite. Tracks like Acid and Tribes stand out for their immediacy and catchiness, demonstrating that Venom still had the spark to produce hooks as well as menace. Even the title track displays a dramatic flair, building toward an atmospheric and powerful climax that lingers long after it ends.

Dolan’s performance is another highlight. His vocals carry grit and authority while his bass lines add a muscular foundation that keeps the music heavy yet dynamic. The rhythm section overall feels tight and confident, with Abaddon’s drumming locking everything into place with simple but effective force. Even moments of experimentation, such as the light use of keyboards or unexpected melodic turns, add character without weakening the band’s identity.

The production is cleaner and more controlled than Venom’s early rawness, but rather than diluting the aggression, it emphasizes clarity and impact. This gives the record a distinct personality, different from their chaotic beginnings yet still unmistakably Venom.

Although often overlooked, Temples of Ice stands as a testament to the band’s resilience and creativity during a transitional era. It may not have the same historic weight as Black Metal or Welcome to Hell, but it offers strong songwriting, energetic performances, and moments of brilliance that reward listeners willing to explore beyond the obvious classics. For fans curious about the Dolan era or those seeking a hidden gem in Venom’s catalog, Temples of Ice is well worth revisiting.