Track By Tracks: Knightfall - Destiny Calling (2024)

1. Children of Time:

"Children of Time" draws inspiration from the concept of immortal beings camouflaging themselves as legendary figures across history, silently observing humanity's evolution. These enigmatic entities assume various forms, appearing as gods, heroes, and inexplicable creatures, subtly influencing our narratives.

When discussing destiny and the uncanny, the notion of fate inevitably emerges. Across cultures, myths and legends offer explanations for the inexplicable, attributing events to various gods, muses, or even the Fates – the three sisters who weave the fabric of destiny. Keith often envisions these beings as immortal children, possessing wisdom far beyond their apparent years, walking amongst us incognito.

In a unique twist, the album artwork portrays Keith's own children reimagined as fantastical characters, embodying the essence of these immortal beings.

2.Warcries:

"Warcries" draws its inspiration from Keith's deep admiration for Viking culture and history, renowned for their ferocity and prowess in battle. The song serves as a metaphor for the relentless struggles we face in life.

For independent artists like Keith, the music industry represents a daunting battlefield where being heard is an ongoing challenge. In a landscape saturated with music, breaking through has become increasingly arduous. Keith's impassioned cry resonates with the frustrations and anger shared by many artists navigating this harsh reality.

To capture the spirit of a Viking army, Keith invited fellow musicians to join him in chanting the chorus, creating a powerful collective voice. Many of these voices belong to independent artists themselves, uniting in solidarity against the obstacles they confront in the industry. Through "Warcries," Keith channels his emotions, using music as a vessel to express his defiance and determination.

3. Remember My Name:

"Remember My Name" embodies the fusion of Musical Theatre and Metal, crafting a unique genre dubbed as Musical/Theatrical Metal. This innovative approach combines the dramatic flair of musical theater with the intense energy of metal music, creating an immersive experience for listeners.

The song serves as the opening history lesson of the album, designed with educational intent. Inspired by Homer's epic, the Iliad, it retells the legendary tale of Achilles in a captivating musical narrative.

Motivated by a desire to instill a love for classic literature in his three children, Keith embarked on a creative journey to craft songs that not only entertain but also educate. By weaving timeless stories into the fabric of his music, he aims to spark curiosity and ignite imagination in young minds, fostering an appreciation for literature and history in a way that feels both effortless and exhilarating.

4. The Hero Walks Alone:

"The Hero Walks Alone" tells the tale of a valiant Knight embarking on his final battle, driven by an unwavering commitment to safeguard his people and realm. True heroism, it suggests, lies in the ability to set aside personal desires and relentlessly pursue what is just, regardless of the sacrifices involved.

At its core, the essence of true heroism is selflessness—being willing to go to any lengths to shield loved ones and extend aid to the less fortunate. This principle echoes the noble code of chivalry that a genuine Knight embodies.

Keith crafted this song as a poignant metaphor for the boundless love a parent holds for their child. It underscores the unyielding resolve of parents to shield their offspring from harm, even at the cost of their own lives. Just as the Knight in the narrative bravely defended his people and kingdom, parents stand ready to make any sacrifice to ensure the safety and well-being of their children.

5. Waiting For You:

"Waiting For You," Knightfall's debut release, stands as a heartfelt tribute to the golden era of music, a decade that holds a special place in Keith's heart. Influenced profoundly by iconic bands like Van Halen, Bon Jovi, and Vixen, the song channels the spirit and energy of 80's rock. The driving force behind "Waiting For You" was the piano-driven riff, drawing direct inspiration from Van Halen's classic "Right Now" - a track that resonated deeply with Keith. This homage to the era encapsulates the essence of the music he grew up with and cherished.

The genesis of the song holds a poignant backstory. In 2018, Keith's Stepfather-in-law succumbed to cancer, leaving behind a legacy of love for 80's rock, particularly for Van Halen. In honor of his memory, Keith felt compelled to craft an original piece that mirrored the sound and passion of the bands his step-father-in-law adored. His wife has often remarked that this song would have undoubtedly touched her Stepfather's soul, echoing the sentiment that it serves as a fitting tribute to his enduring love for 80's rock.

6. Destiny Calling:

The heartrending yet uplifting tale behind the title track "Destiny Calling" is a testament to perseverance and the power of familial support. Keith, after a decade-long hiatus from music to prioritize family life and wrestle with self-doubt, found himself drawn back to songwriting in the dawn of 2020.

Tragedy struck in 2021 when Keith's father fell terminally ill. In those poignant final days, Keith shared a soul-stirring song, "Not Ready To Let You Go," with his father, who, moved to tears, expressed regret for not fully embracing Keith's musical passion. In a heartfelt moment, his father urged Keith to pursue his musical gifts, recognizing it as his true calling: "Follow your dreams, son."

Following his father's passing, Keith found solace and inspiration in his music, crafting the melodies of "Destiny Calling" from a riff conceived in 2020. Though cloaked in fantasy-themed lyrics, the essence of the song resonates as a clarion call to greatness, urging listeners to not only pursue personal dreams but also to uplift and support others in their journeys. In a world often overshadowed by negativity, the ethos of "Destiny Calling" is to wield the transformative power of music as a beacon of hope and enlightenment. Emphasizing collaboration, Keith envisioned the song as an ensemble piece, recognizing that every musician holds the potential to guide and inspire, thus making music our collective "Destiny Calling."

7. The Musketeer:

"The Musketeer" stands as the second pivotal history lesson within the album, encapsulating the timeless motto of the Musketeers: "All for one and one for all." This motto embodies the epitome of true friendship and brotherhood. Drawing inspiration from the illustrious works of Alexandre Dumas, particularly "The Three Musketeers," Keith found himself captivated by the narrative's ability to inspire collective action for righteousness. The tale of the Musketeers, akin to knights stripped of their heavy armor yet retaining their noble code of honor, resonated deeply with Keith's sensibilities. They symbolized a beacon of hope, demonstrating how a dedicated few could ignite the courage of many to stand up for what is just and righteous.

"The Musketeer" delves into the perspective of D'Artagnan, the protagonist who journeys to Paris with dreams of joining the Musketeers, only to confront the harsh reality of their disbandment. Through his eyes, we witness the disillusionment and the subsequent quest for redemption, echoing themes of resilience and perseverance against adversity.

8. Raise Your Fist:

"Raise Your Fist" was born amidst pandemic chaos, fueled by election strife. Witnessing societal fractures, Keith saw the media and government playing both sides, treating us as mere puppets. The song reflects his frustration with this manipulation, urging listeners to stand against it. With a call to action in its title, it speaks to resilience and unity amid turbulent times.

The song serves as a wake-up call, urging us to recognize the flaws in our broken system. It calls for solidarity against the tyranny often overlooked or denied due to fear. It's a plea to fight back through peaceful means, inspiring change for a better future for all generations to come.

9. Starfall:

"Starfall" emerged as a stark warning for our future, conceived during the pandemic when we found ourselves confined to our homes amidst a nation torn by internal strife. The inception of "Starfall" came from Keith's haunting dream, a vision that unfolded amid a fantasy VRMMO game reminiscent of "Warcraft 3" and "Sword Art Online". In this dream, Keith embodied the character of the "Priestess of the Moon" from "Warcraft 3", unleashing her powerful ability known as "Starfall". Yet, as the virtual stars fell, a real-world tremor shook him from the game. Peering outside, he witnessed a terrifying sight: what appeared to be a Starfall in reality, but these falling stars were nuclear warheads, heralding the end of life on Earth.

Haunted by the implications of this dream, Keith delved into introspection, channeling his emotions into music. As he crafted the melody, Jessica Mercy joined the creative process, lending her touch to complete the second verse and refine the song's message. The music video for "Starfall" materialized as a visual representation of Keith's dream, impeccably executed by a team dedicated to bringing the concept to life.

10. Farewell:

"Farewell" is a poignant musical tribute dedicated to Yvette Dombrowski, mother of Knightfall composer Keith Dombrowski, who tragically succumbed to Alzheimer's in 2017. Through this composition, Keith embarks on a profound journey through the stages of grief: from the depths of depression and denial, through the fiery stages of anger and bargaining, ultimately arriving at a place of acceptance. In each note and melody, listeners are invited to accompany Keith on his emotional odyssey, as he honors his mother's memory and grapples with the profound loss she left behind.

"Alzheimer's is a terrible disease. I wrote this song for two reasons. First, because of how quickly my mother lost herself to this disease. I was unable to see her before her mind had gone. This is the only regret I have in my life. Not being there. I never got to say goodbye and tell her I love her when she still could understand and say it back. This haunts me to this day. "Farewell" allowed me an outlet to pour those emotions into and to finally say the things in my heart and let her know how I feel. I also get to finally say goodbye in a way. I can finally come to terms with that guilt I have had for the last 6 years."

"Secondly, I wanted to create a piece of music and words that resonate with anyone who has lost a loved one. I know so many of us carry the guilt I have felt when someone goes unexpectedly or in a way where you cannot have that last precious moment. Even if you do have that moment it does not take away the pain. This song is for everyone that has, is, or will deal with the loss of someone special to them. My mother meant the world to me. She was just the greatest and every day without her is a struggle. I hope "Farewell" helps people through the tough times and lets everyone know they are not alone. Thank you for listening to my song and whatever you are going through it's going to be ok, keep love in your heart and it never dies. "Until we meet again" - Keith Dombrowski

11. Invincible:

This is a cover of Pat Benatar's "Invincible" re-imagined in the Symphonic Metal style. "Invincible" is the Grammy-nominated lead single from Pat Benatar's sixth studio album Seven the Hard Way (1985), released on July 6, 1985. The song was written by Holly Knight and Simon Climie (Knight also co-wrote "Love Is a Battlefield"), and was used as a theme song for the film The Legend of Billie Jean (1985). The song was a huge hit, peaking at #10 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart on September 14, 1985.

The artwork is inspired by the costume Helen Slater’s Billie Jean wore in the film.