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Holger

 

Finally once again a real good traditional Power Metal with a great female vocalist and phat Death growls. SEVEN KINGDOM are from Daytona Beach but don't sound such like all – American. The Americans take the range in their stride between in the beloved by us US Metal and the rather traditional European Metal. The vocalist Sabrina Valentine sounds at times like the little sister of Amy Lee (EVANESCENCE). And whose class is even undisputed whereby who not necessarily like EVANESCENCE. The Death growls are quite few and far between, but come straight from the heart. They come across not that insincere as like many a wannabe Death Metal bands. In this context it reminds me a little of the best songs of the Dutchmen ORPHANAGE. Also the guitar work and the rhythm section are beyond any doubt. Nightmare Records actually took the already one year ago autonomously published second cd of the band on board in order to put this little jewel professional on the market. Awesome record.

Holger

Translated by: Claudia

 

translation coming soon ...

Holger

 

translation coming soon ...

Holger

 

Unfortunately the album "Jesus King Of Wine" of the year 2007 of the French HEMOGRAGY did not fire a bit with me. In spite of several inruns and the real iconic cover I did not take to this album and it disappeared soon in the unbelievable depths of my record collection. When I was now sent the new record by the band the surprise was already perfect after the first bars. A lot had changed here. No matter whether you take "Sold-Out", "My Ticket To Hell", "The Hemo Truck" or any other random song of this album. They all atomise the charme of an 80.ies underground Heavy Metal pressing with an healthy portion of humour. A very obvious rise towards the yet immatured previous one. Check this band from Paris out in the web at www.myspace.com/hemoragy. Perhaps one or two German labels will start to listen attentively due to my lines.

Holger

Translated by: Claudia

 

Finally! Perceived hundred years I waited for a vital sign of The Swiss Power/Thrash legend DRIFTER. The first song "The Clown" seems to be a bit modern and awkwad, but it blossoms out after repeated listening to an earworm. The following "Dream Eagle" once could well have been on one of the two 80-ies records of the band. The song immediately detonates and makes you curious to the third and last title of the new demo. At "Tortured Brain" vocalist Tommy Lion surpasses himself. Once again an absolutely awesome mixture of Thrash and Power Metal vocals. For me he is anyway one of the undervalued vocalist of this genre. After just over 15 minutes the fun is unfortunately over again. The remaining minutes they packed full of already known songs (naturally including "Reality Turns To Dust"!!!). The ignoramus (listener) is therewith able to get an idea how DRIFTER sounded in the glory days of Heavy Metal. You can check out the three new songs and of course some classics of the band at www.myspace.com/driftermetal. I anyhow jump for joy for a complete new album of DRIFTER!!!

Holger

Translated by: Claudia

 

The last days I found a small parcel from the country of the koala bears and kangaroos - Australia in my Metal mailbox!!! Short checked and noticed that it only can be a cd. Hey, what an awesome cover. Now, the music must yet fit!!! So unpack and put it into the maw of my cd player. And what shall I say? The music enormous coincides ...... DAWN OF RETRIBUTION have quarried out with their debut album "The Plan To End Humanity" a several tons weighing Death/Thrash Metal chunk which show so many established bands who the boss is! Death Metal growls fight a duel with Thrash riffs and the rhythm fraction rolls everything lock, stock and barrel. At the all in 8 songs of "The Plan To End Humanity" there is no failure for me. On the contrary. All songs bang like mad. I nevertheless would like to stress "The Wake Of Devastation" …. the riffs screw off your head and let crackling the neck muscles while headbanging.
DAWN OF RETRIBUTION have relinquished with "The Plan To End Humanity" a very good debut album without any breathers, but with vast power to the Metal world. I can only recommend it to any fan who set his priorities between Thrash Metal and Death Metal. At best you give a listen at www.myspace.com/dawnofretribution and after that fetch the album home.

Ron

Translated by: Claudia

 

I did not give a shit of pretty much everything which was published by Phil Anselmos label Housecore Records until now. Thus my expectations in terms of WARBEAST (ex TEXAS METAL ALLIANCE) were only marginal to non – existent. But already the several weeks ago by the band put online song "We Are The Vultures" and the video for the track "Scorched Earth Policy" nevertheless formented sometime my anticipation of a cream of the crop Thrash Metal thunderstorm. WARBEAST sound damned like the old SACRED REICH at times of "Ignorance" and most of all vocalist Bruce Corbitt (RIGOR MORTIS) reminds me nearly at 100% of Phil Rind. Especially "The Plaque at Hand“ fusses off my speakers like SACRED REICH in the early 80-ies. Such an hammer like for example "Born With A Blackened Heart" many of the overhyped young bands would like to have on their record. But they don't have it except for the occasional one.....Thrash maniacs should absolutely check the band and of course their songs at www.myspace.com/texasmetalalliance.

Holger

Translated by: Claudia

 

 

And once again more awesome Metal from Sweden. The outstanding debut of this young troop is called “Lord Of The Wasteland” who right once won the Rock The Nation Award 2009 and let boom the N.W.O.B.H.M. sound fresh and great off the speakers.
It is simply celebrated classical Heavy Metal and here are also distinguished clear influences like Iron Maiden and Co. Which stresses this opus from the crowd are the absolutely phantastic compositions which convince full – scale. Listening tips?...
Simply check out the complete album, because every song is a Metal delectation. Everything matches perfect here.Vocals, instrumentation, powerful sound up to the successful artwork of Ed Repka. He seems to give a cross reference of his past with this drawing. It however looks like that nobody else than Vic Rattlehead seems to steer the heavily armed car...
STEELWING will give in autumn the opener of Blind Guardian on tour and will surely be able to attrack an own headliner tour soon. „Lord Of The Wasteland“ smells of live performance and is now already one of the highlights of the year 2010 !

IronIngo

Translated by: Claudia

 

After the whizkids WARBRINGER and EVILE we have once again a great band from the United Kingdom at the start which feels obliged to the good ancient traditon of Thrash Metal. Vocalist Neil Stevens sounds like the little brother of Matt Barlow (ICED EARTH) and also the one or other riff reminds of the US Metalheads. Who can for example imagine a Thrash variant of the US Metalheads CATCH 22 should once risk an ear or two here. It is difficult to highlight single titles at "Destroyed by Creation" as they move playing - wise as well as at the song writing throughout on a high level. Nonetheless "Rising from the Grave" with its awesome opening riff and the strong lead guitars (they remember time and again of IRON MAIDEN) stuck even at the first run in the auditory canals. But also the final title song with with its more than 8 minutes playing time makes stubborness for more. My both tips for you to check the record.
ELIMINATION are one of THE surprises of the year for me. As the saying goes?: Things always seem to happen when you least expect them. If it rocks that way then don't mind if I do...

Holger

Translated by: Claudia

 

Already after the first bars of the opener “Rise like the Sun“ it was clear to me that we are concerned here with a little jewel. Little only therefore, because it unfortunately only involves of a 4-track EP of the Californians SCARRED. Spontaneously US bands like BANSHEE, BARREN CROSS, MASS, HALLOWEEN and GOTHIC KNIGHTS come to my mind. At the rather solemn titels you can perceive several parallels to the early SAVIOUR MACHINE and above all to the divine SOLITUDE AETURNUS. The EP sounds absolutely timeless and guitarist John Toscano has mastered the famous razor blade dance. Old School riffs go hand in hand with a pressing and modern production. Vocalist Eric Claro has a significant part of the almost perfect general impression. I can't and won't imagine someone else for this job. He is definitely one of the best of his profession. You nowadays would rank such an awesome title like "First Encounter" absolutely among the classics, if it would be come 20 years earlier into the world. I particularly like the decent FATES WARNING and QUEENSRYCHE borrowings on "First Encounter". Just on the sidelines it ismentioned for the sake of completeness that Sami De John of the everywhere famous and popular RUTHLESS ("Metal Without Mercy") sometime sung at SCARRED. Who cares ... ?

Holger

Translated by: Claudia

 

This piece can't be a new BATHORY record already from the perfect produced sound. After the demise of Quorthon a few years ago it is one way or another a physical impossibility. Nevertheless almost everything reminds of the blissful "Hammerheart" or "Blood on Ice" times. The short spoken intros resemble very intensive of the introductions of old MANOWAR epics. This also figures, because they were a great influence for the youg Quorthon. The threepart "The End" (Balders Fall / Vargavinter / The Final War) at the end of the album has no peer in vain. These all in all 25 minutes alone justify the purchase of the album. BATHORY fans have to have a listen once absolutely. All the others should imagine a more “doom“ version of the latest CROM cd "Vengeance". Tasted blood? I hope so....!

Holger

Translated by: Claudia

 

After the first bars I still thought to hear a missing demo of an unknown to me DEATH song. Really astonishing this similarity in sound and way of playing. But shortly after I realized that Thom Mathews current demo makes more for the ingenious solo opusses of “guitar shredders“ like Tony Fredianelli (APOCRYPHA) and Toby Knapp (ONWARD). But also friends of rather calmer fellows like Tony MacAlpine, Vinnie Moore or Patrick Rondat get their moneys worth here completely. Thom already recorded in 2006 with the extreme technicians of QUINTA ESSENTIA their in the underground highly respected debut album "Neutrality For Defined Chaos" and in the same year he also took his first solo opus “Mindcraft“ on the start. The three songs of the demo available to me are of the second solo album which should be originally released in 2008. Because of the bankrupty of his label Black Flame Records and oersonal financial difficulties it unfortunately didn't come off till this day. So, he is currently in search of a new label. All big and small record bosses can contact Thom at: thom.mathews@yahoo.com (Please only serious offers) Hmm ... Would be actually a golden opportunity for our pal Franko from Rock It Up Records (Toby Knapp, NEW EDEN, BYFIST, SAVIOR FROM ANGER and so on). I have to call him downright...

Holger

Translated by: Claudia

 

We already made the French MYSTERY BLUE in the year 2003 palatable to you (see Archiv). The band published several albums since then which unfortunately passed by completely to me. The vocals of front belter Nathalie Geyer go great with the eleven songs whether or not it is a mid tempo track like "Piece of Eternity“ or a Power grenade with thrashy elements of the type "Welcome to Chaos". Beisdes the brain milling refrains I extraordinary like the ultra awesome guitar solis. You sadly hear something like this nowadays far too seldom. In short: "Hell & Fury" is the most perfect fusion of traditional Heavy and Power Metal which I have heard lately. On top of that producer Achim Köhler (BRAINSTORM, SACRED STEEL, PRIMAL FEAR, SINNER) has given the record a transparent and absolutely authentic sound. It's all the more astonishing that a band which already exists since the early 80-ies is still so unkown in our latitudes. With the quality MYSTREY BLUE provides here it should change immediately. But anyway it's up to us fans, isn't it?! So you hopefully know what to do! Please absolutely check the bands' homepage www.mysteryblue.com.

Holger

Translated by: Claudia

 

The five musicians of ARMOR COLUMN from New York offer us on their debut EP “Armor Up Your Ass” Thrash with class. Whose title is surely borrowed from the legendary Metallica bootleg “Metal Up Your Ass” of the early 80-ies. You can precisely classify this superb 4 – track cd right in this temporal phase of Thrash Metal without sounding antiquated or frumpy.
The production is chronological adequate, very pressureful and the four contained songs “Dictator´s Whore“, “Armor Column“, “ Where There´s A War, There´s A Way“ and “We Breathe Extinction“ speak because of their class for themselves. You can imagine as a roughly orientation a Metallic brew of Annihilator and Agent Steel which has with Jeff Andrews the perfect vocalist at the start who is able to super transpose this concentrate vocally.
ARMOR COLUMN are already currently working on new tracks in order to hopefully soon be able to present us a complete album. This EP offers in spite of the short playing time of a little bit more than 21 minutes everything the quality – conscious Powerthrasher needs as a buying inducement. Awesome played, catchy Metal with pressureful sound and a great cover artwork which might have also decorated a cool Sodom album on closer view. Furthermore this EP is limited to 300 copies wherefore you should not hesitate too long with the planned buying of this grenade.To reinforce this statement now like almost always the hint for audio samples. Click to www.myspace.com/armorcolumnny and turn the PC music speakers as far as it will go!
Support this absolutely awesome band who would surely enrich every Headbangers Open Air, Keep It True, Swordbrothers, Rock Hard Festival or Bang Your Head. And so I close witht he loud roared words: Armor Up Your Ass !!!

IronIngo

Translated by: Claudia

 

STEEL ASSASSIN delight us after “War Of The Eight Saints” with a more than sense making new recording of old demo tracks which you already know of the superb “From The Vaults” album with Doni Escolsa on the mic. The new recording at “In Hellfire Forged“ is however as much more pressureful in sound and offers with the new vocalist John Falzone a superb vocal acrobat who reminds by his powerful organ partly very much of Harry Conklin of Jag Panzer.
“Breakout At St. Lo“ is a high -class brand new track on the vinyl which smooth connects to the outstanding new recordings and which whets the more than big appetite for brand new material of this band. The great cover artwork is of course doing extremely well on a big LP cover and who is barely fast enough will maybe manage to grab one of the strict limited compression in blue / red splatter vinyl which should make collectors' hearts leap for a joy.  This US Powermetal high flyer will of course surely be officially pressed also in Europe. Currently it is offered directly via the band in direct selling. However you can just notice in particular in Germany thus Europe the obvious trend that Metalheads seem to find back increasingly to the good old vinyl
To be able to save this superior opus for yourselves go to the label homepage www.high-roller-records.de and for audio samples and further information click www.myspace.com/steelassassin, For each and really absolutely everyone who is into classic US Powermetal (and who doesn't do?!!!) now the compelling pointer to the next obligatory purchase. “In Hellfire Forged“ gets 100% in the heart of Heavy Metal, simply ingenious!!!!

IronIngo

Translated by: Claudia

 

translation coming soon ...

Ron

 

The German label Rock It Up Records brought a re release of the sole FAUSTUS album ’… and Still We Suffer“ at the start which must be an absolutely obligatory album for every Thrash Metal fan!!! The Seattle, Washington (USA) – born FAUSTUS released in 1996 with ’… and Still We Suffer“ a single-handedly technical Power – Thrash Metal album which has finally now been customized to every Thrasher. Provided with 6 bonus live songs (of these 2 Songs were not on the album) the re release of Rock It Up Records comes across. The sound of ’… and Still We Suffer“ was already in 1996 smashing and crystal clear and knows to transfer the power of the songs to the hilt. Songwriter – wise it could not be and can't be faulted. The mainly in the mid -tempo located songs know how to convince merciless without exceptions by interspersed faster passages, phat grooves and clever placed breaks. The vocals fluctuate between melodic singing and very aggressive shouting and thereby know to give phat main points in every single song. The live bonus songs feature a certain Curran Murphy....Yes, the very one who gave and gives proof of his guitar arts at NEVERMORE, ANNIHILATOR and his current own band SHATTER MESSIAH.
FAUSTUS show at ’…and Still We Suffer“ whether in the studio or live every Thrash band of the new era who's the boss. For every Thrash fan who wants to be hip is this re release an absolutely MUST in his collection!!!.

Ron

Translated by: Claudia

 

The small but mighty label Ice Warrior (Rock It Up Records) signed with SEVEN GATES from Italy a strong melodic Power Metal band. And hit with the re release of the in 2008 single-handedly published "The Good And The Evil" the first bull's eye. I personally quite like te look of it and "The Good And The Evil" is good melodic Power Metal with a slight liability to the typical Italian kitsch factor ala Rhapsody, In Fire or Labyrinth. But SEVEN GATESD even have with “Vengeance“ a real stunner song at the start which impresses with fast speed, a guitar wall and floating drums. When listening to the song “Freedom“ NARNIA comes again and again to my mind and they really did awesome songs. SEVEN GATES did with “The Good And The Evil“ a pretty well Power Metal record. Who likes bands like RHAPSODY IN FIRE, NARNIA or LABYRINTH can check the cd with a good conscience and bring it to his home collection.
I can tell to all fans who already have the from the band single-handedly album "The Good And The Evil" that this re release contains a bonus track!

Ron

Translated by: Claudia

 

HEATHEN finally report back with a complete new album after almost 20 years. And how! The in 2004 released “Best Of / Cover“ record “Recovered“ indeed stoked strong expectations to the upcoming album due to its class, but these evaporated over the course of the last years with increasing latency. Only when I was able to see HEATHEN in 2008 live at the K.I.T. X hope re-bud. After such a hammer performance an album MUST be finally made. Namely a hammer album. And now it really comes true. “The Evolution Of Chaos“ links nearly seamless to old times. HEATHEN have put with the Thrash classics "Breaking the Silence" and "Victims of Deception" themselves the bar to heady heights. I a priori realized that they would not be able to better it, but I did not reckon that they get pecariously close to their own top mark. No matter where the splendid guitarist Lee Altus gets involved in I like it. Even the usually rather avoided from my ears DIE KRUPPS had been not bad at all during their “Altus“ period. The man is for me beyond any doubt. The guy always seems to be the extra something. Who did not dig it until now (perhaps, because of his youg age): HEATHEN are not only very similar to the much vowed and off - cited EXODOS, but also coequal!!! Thrash 'til Death !!!

Holger

Translated by: Claudia

 

The latest album of the Finnish Melodic Power Metal band EXCALION is called "High Time". The 11 songs offer a consequently progression of the band typical sound which was already pleasing on their previous album “Waterlines“. The songs are all extremely catchy, arranged very compact and fluently. The necessary portions of hardness and power are missed at no point. Passionate melodies ride on the crests of sometime smooth crackling, sometime roaring guitar whitecaps. Fortunately the keyboards settle mostly for the decent background music of the compositions. Front man Jarmo Pääkkönen has a brilliant balanced voice which combines melodic clarity with emotional deepness without making leeway into tearfulness. Jarmo shows with such tracks like "The Flags In Line" or the a bit jauntier "Bring On The Storm" or the awesome "The Stroud“ what he can do. You can't do wrong with "High Time" when you like melodic Power Metal of the typical Finnish styling. Why should it always be the established bands of this Metal genre? EXCYLION are once for all as good as them!!!

Ron

Translated by: Claudia

 

IronIngo

Translated by: Claudia

 

Attention! Exotic alarm. A band from Bulgaira wasn't on my turntable in a long time. And much less such a good one. When listening to the first song "Under Control" I immediately thought of an HELLOWEEN clone at "Walls of Jericho" times. This impression was however foundered with increasing length, because I caught myself in the later course of the cd with increased regularity that Marias vocals reminds me more of Vidonne Sayre-Riemenschneider (LORDIAN GUARD). Whom this however nevertheless a bit elderly Lady doesn't mean anything should at least be able to make use of the comparison with CRYSTAL VIPERs Leather Wych (Marta Gabriel). A great record which grows with every run and indeed animates you with increasing frequency to sing along and to headbang. The cd really lifts up your spirit. For fans of the above mentioned HELLOWEEN, the old RUNNING WILD or GRAVE DIGGER - RAMPART are a surely good choice. Just traditional Old School Metal. No more, no less also.

Holger

Translated by: Claudia

 

BIBLEBLACK are concentrated food for the harder ones among yourselves who are into BIOMECHANICAL, the old ARCH ENEMY with Johan Liiva on the mic or his current band HEARSE. Also the good old AT THE GATES shimmer through sporadically. This wasn't that clear before the first listening, because I anyway yet classified guitarists like Mike Wead (HEXENHAUS, KING DIAMOND, ABSTRAKT ALGEBRA, MEMENTOMORI) and Simon Johansson (MEMORY GARDEN, STEEL ATTACK, ABSTRAKT ALGEBRA) nevertheless somewhat different. The Swedes play here a mixture of Thrash Metal and a kind of soundtrack-like and atmospheric Black Metal. The whole on a dizzy high technical level. At my favourite song "I am Legion" they move complexity-wise little short of in DEATH or DREAM THEATER realms. Corresponding the permanent change of vocal style of Kacper Rozanski who has everything down pat from DEATH growls via Thrash screams right up to typical Black Metal naggings. Awesome disc.

Holger

Translated by: Claudia

 

For a short time I am in contact with a band from Canada (thanks to myspace)!!! The band is called HORDE OF ANACHRON and is since 2005 on the road in the Metal world. In this case it took more than four years to relinquish now their self produced debut longplayer to the Metal mob. They succeed with "Aeons Of Damnation" a nice first strike in the matter of Blackened Death / Thrash Metal. The songs sound with full intensity out of my equipment and let me again and again listen attentively because of the Thrash riffs. The stuff of HORFE OF ANACRON is not that light food, because it goes about it at times very Progressive. The fast changes in speed demand fully concentration from me and because of this "Aeons Of Damnation" becomes accessible to me only after repeated listening. That's what I call a debut album.....From naught to sixty!!!! It really fits everything perfectly. They also did their job properly in the matter of cover styling and got Dan Seagrave on board. It might indeed be clear to every Metal fan what kind of work the guy hands!!! Wo is surprised in this case that the cover fits perfect to the sound of "Aeons Of Damnation"?
The men of HORDE OF ANACHRON show that the tightrope walk between Death Metal, Black Metal and Thrash Metal can be quite successful and done well. I am really curious what we will hear of the men in the future.

Ron

Translated by: Claudia

 

Michael and Brian Harris made it once again to record a mutual record!!! For this purpose they founded in 2004 DARKOLOGY with the claim to put a hard Progressive album on the market. They managed it with "Altered Reflections" in perfection. Eh, you don't know yet the brothers Harris? I am telling you that you are the one to blame here ... Yo can hear thwem for example on both ZANISTER records. Yes, exactly and ZANISTER are of the sphere of David T. Chastian with his Leviathan Records. But, enough of the history lesson. Now, let's revisit to the debut album "Altered Reflections" of DARKOLOGY.
With the old High School friend of Michal Harris, Mike Neal, on bass a 3 song demo was fastly recorded and with this they got Kelly "Sundown" Carpenter (ex OUTWORLD) on mic on board of DARKOLOGY. Now the troop was complete and it could first real go off. In the course of this "Altered Reflections" resulted. An album with uncompromising and at the same time progressive hardness. Which however handles without any keyboards which yet underlines the hardness of this record. One monster song is put side by side with another monster song which are sophisticated of the choicest by the vocals of Kelly "Sundown" Carpenter. Just listen to "I Bleed" (you can watch the video at www.myspace.com/darkologymetal ), “Revitalize“ or the about 10 minutes running time song "Trance Of The Gorgons" and you know what I am talking about. I can't help whom who will miss this about 55 minutes Progressive Metal of a class of its own!!! For all Prog Metal fans is "Trance Of The Gorgons" an absolutely MUST.

Ron

Translated by: Claudia

 

The already since 1994 existing Swedes VÖRGUS are in the tradition of the old N.W.O.B.H.M. Bands like VENOM, TANK and MOTÖRHEAD. The whole thing yet tuned with a proper portion of Thrash Metal and the VÖRGUS drink is ready mixed. But shaken not stirred. With the song "In Metal We Trust" the troop from Stockholm has the perfect sing – along title at the start. The total cool "Down in Flames" I have probably checked out as much as ten times in a row. Only one of the many good songs of the album. At "Headhunter" they drop temporary a gear. A very Doom orientated title which reminds from the guitar sound in places at the old COUNT RAVEN or SAINT VITUS riffs. After that they continue balls to the wall. In fact at full throttle! Because “Slave“ reminds me insomuch of the good old EXCITER that I immediately pulled their classic off my shelf. This terrific cd is with a total running time of only just over 30 minutes unfortunately a little bit too short for my taste. But we don't want to be awkward. SLAYERs sledgehammer "Reign in Blood" is even more about two minutes shorter. Brevity is once again here the soul of wit.

Holger

Translated by: Claudia

 

After the tragical loss of their exceptional vocalist and likewise flagship I never expected this band back that fast and much less that strong. The new band member Brian Ashland delivers more than respectable efforts on the mic and let nearly forget the unfortunately too early passed on Mike Baker. They offer musically from first to last the familiar strong SHADOW GALERY food. Songs like Pain" and "Gold Dust" rank among the strongest stuff I heard this year of Progressive Metal bands. By the way the outstanding production leaves as well nothing to be desired. In case you do not know SHADOW GALLERY yet: Fans of SYMPHONY X or DREAM THEATER should implicity give a listen to this record. The above mentioned total running time refers to the likeable done digi pack with believe it or noit four bonus tracks. It's pleasing that you are still here guys in spite of such a setback.

Holger

Translated by: Claudia

 

It took a little bit more than three years that RED CIRCUIT were able to publish another album after the already awfully good debut album "Trance State“. The men around exceptional vocalist Chity Somapala (amongst other things. ex Firewind) and keyboarder Markus Teske have delivered with "Homeland" a fantastic opus in the matter of slight Melodic Progressive Power Metal. In the about three years since "Trance State" the carousel of lineup was in steady rotation which affected but on ly positively and lead to an enormous artisitc progression of the band.
RED CIRCUIT tear with untamed power through th e songs. Pure Power Metal with a Progressive impact!
Complex rhythms preyed upon the listeners' mind. Hard guitar solis alternate with slight symphonic keyboard tunes which never have an disturbing impact on the whole sound of "Homeland".
The super song of the eleven songs of "Homeland" is for me "Absinth"! Chity Somapala shows here all his skills.
All who rate for example FIREWIND, but also RED CIRCUIT label mates PAGAN'S MIND among to their favourites can take "Homeland" unquestioningly to their own holy Metal halls.

Ron

Translated by: Claudia

 

POWERSTEEL vocalist Lauro Brito who besides played guitar at the demo which you can find in our archive is an extremely sympathetic person. Since my review about the last demo we are more or less in steady contact. The other day the promised debut cd of the Brazilians finally suddenly arrived at my house. As anticipated they play on this self production traditional Power Metal. I was surprised about the fact that not one song of the many good songs of the demo has made it on the album. All tracks are completely n ew, but take the same line as the already known material. Lauro doesn't even try it to break any records in high pitches with his voice and thus sings in middle voice. Here it is presented the impression of an homogenus band to me from the first to the last track. It all dovetails great. One of my favourites are the driving "Freedom Fighter“, the masher "Search for Power" and "Devil's Game". You will receive a first impression of your own at best when klicking throught the songs at www.myspace.com/powersteelband. Lastly here now the all-clear: All eight songs of the POWERSTEEL demo of 2005 “ Don't let Heavy Metal die" are on the cd as a bonus.

Holger

Translated by: Claudia

 

With the debut of LICK THE BLADE from Ohio Auburn Records deliver us the next coup of US metallic Metal art. Whereby you have to say here right at the beginning of the review that there is a very European influence on this youg talented band: IRON MAIDEN!
After the terrific intro „Prelude To War“ follows with „Thanatos“ an acoustic little short of an awestruck bow to the iron maidens. The rhythm and the composition of the tracks remind me partly yet very much of „Aces High“, but don't worry LICK THE BLADE are far apart from simply copying. Thereto tracks like „Royal Blood“, „Graveyard Of Empires“, „Red Warning“ or the fast „Stalker“ bang too independent off the speakers. Besides they have with front siren Ted Anderson a capable man on the mic who does not only convince vocally. But he is also by the by one of the most pleasant contemporaries who crossed my path so far between Wiesmoor and Cleveland and he really lives Metal. LICK THE BLADE leave with „Graveyard Of Empires“ ever distinct traces which could also be confirmed at the Headbangers Open Air this year with an impressive live gig.
You ca n find metallic audio samples and more information at www.myspace.com/licktheblade. Who likes pure and straight Metal knows what to do, up the irons!

IronIngo

Translated by: Claudia

 

First of all one thing: The title does not say it all here, because you will search in vain for highspeed at this cd. At this mini album they range concerning sound and speed on a par with bands of the NWOBHM era. Namely: DIAMOND HEAD, UFO, TYGERS OF PAN TANG and so on. Originally released in 2008 by the Americans from Los Angeles as a self-press and now remastered with a narrowly mixed track list by Earache Records this tresure represents a real highlight for Heavy Metal purists. The video for the title track contained on this cd is absolutely iconic. More 80-ies retro feeling is really not possible!!! As the band will record their next album with an almost completely changed lineup, I am just yet curious whe ther they are able to keep this high standard.

Holger

Translated by: Claudia

 

Dave Silver (vocals, guitars) founded in 2007 SAVAGE MESSIAH from the ashes of to my mind very good, but nevertheless unknown HEADLESS CROSS. Who published in 2007 the raise a stink EP "Spitting Venom" and now want to put the fear of God into the establlished Thrash bands with their Thrash hammer debut album “Insurrection Rising".
Hey, and what shall I say: SAVAGE MESSIAH do this almost 45 minutes long hugely at "Insurrection Rising". SAVAGE MESSIAH cover the full range of Thrash Metal. You can find uncompromising skull holder, grooving mid tempo monster and balladic topics in the sound of the London guys. Also vocalist and guitarist Dave Silver worked very much on the variability of his voice in comparison to the previous EP so that everything fits super together .
And the production zaps, too. You can only hope that this record will draw enough attention to it so that we can put for the future still more music of the Englishmen in our rack. Thrasher with aspiration can blind lap "Insurrection Rising".
But watch out. You can't exclude addictiveness here!!!

Ron

Translated by: Claudia

 

I admit it: The Danish Thrasher ARTILLERY played hitherto a rather insignificant role in my Metal universe. Only when I was able to see them live at the Wacken Open Air in 2000 I took notice of this troop by their strong performance. And at that time I already had twenty years Metal experience on the clock. And today, once more almost ten years later the guys surprise me again. Damn it! Where did you raised this vocalist? He is really awesome! Søren Nico Adamsen is definitively more than a substitute for the renegade Flemming Rönsdorf. That he has the Thrash songs down pat is surely in the nature of things, but what he screws with his multifarious voice out of tracks like "Delusions Of Grandeur" is simply unbelievable. Whoever even has a glimmer of Metal in hisself, get going and buy this hammer album. By the way you could also bag at the same time without worries the three re-released classic albums of the band. Most of all "By Inheritance" belongs in EVERY METAL collection. By the way the above mentioned total running time refers to the limited digi pak with two bonus tracks.

Holger

English translation: Claudia

 

Finally the time has come and the Oslo (Norway) born ILLUSION SUITE make with "Final Hour“ their full-length debut. Who does not know ILLUSION SUITE yet, but counts for example PAGAN'S MIND among his favourites is now on duty. Superb Progressive Power Metal with beautiful melodies and corresponding hardness.
Simply everything comes together here. The band never get bogged down in senseless fussing around20with flies. Whether the calmer vocal passages or the guitars which bring in one guitar wall after another. Everything is amazingly consistent.
The complete album is spiked with highlights in the matter of Progressive Power Metal. But the super song of “ Final Hour“ is the about 15 minutes long track "The Adventures Of Arcan" which contains everything ILLUSION SUITE constitutes. Just because of this song20there is a justification for buying this debut. You can simply only enjoy this cd from first to last.
The label LIMB MUSIC proves yet again an absolutely sense for exceptional bands.
I can say only one thing more or respectively I can only recommend: Buy, buy, buy!!!

Ron

English translation: Claudia

 

Re - recorded classics are indeed mostly a two - edged sword. On the one hand it benefits (in the majority of cases) to be able to hear the old songs finally once with a proper production. On the other hand a whole piece of nostalgia goes of course down the tube. While listening to the TORCH cd solely the first applies to me. The new deployed troop around the only original member and vocalist Dan Dark delivers here after believe it or not 25 years once again a sound carrier.. And it truly packs a punch. The thirteen "Best of ..." son gs plus the two new tracks bang straight out of the speakers. It really lifts your spirits to bawl out again "Fire Raiser" or "Gladiator". But also the new material definitively lifts the spirits for a new album. At best you don't vacillate a long time (what an awesome wordplay) and drop by at Mausoleum Records (www.mausoleum.music-avenue.net) and listen there to the mp3 files of hammer quality. Welcome back TORCH !!!

Holger

English translation: Claudia

 

While the VAN HALEN clique with returnee David Lee Roth on the mic frantically menaces to wear themselves down with the song writing two ex members braced themselves up for just recording a little masterpiece. Together with their fellow compaigners Joe Satriani (amongst other things DEEP PURPLE) on the guitar and drummer Chad Smith (RED HOT CHILI PEPPERS) the two ex VAN HALEN musicians Michael Anthony und Sammy Hagar succeeded a perfect spot landing. Phat produced and forceful pressuring Rock with a slight Blues feeling. Although here are exceptional musicians at the start you can't pick up at least musically any airs and graces. They play here absolutely song beneficial. Let's see, whether the once so mighty VAN HALEN are able to overcome this.

Holger

English translation: Claudia

 

When hearing of the city "Bollnäs" in Sweden inevitably two smashing bands, TAD MOROSE and MORGANA LEFAY, come to my mind as a Metal fan. Now, the next blockbuster comes from Bollnäs with INMORIA which unite the progressive elements of TAD MOROSE and the guitar power and the voice of MORGANA LEFAY. If I now yet mention that 4/5 of INMORIA are members of Tad Morose and that they got the distinctive organ of Charles "Chulle" Rytkönen (Morgana Lefay) on board everyone should be clear in his mind what you can hear on the debut "Invisible Wounds" .
Smashing guitars wich are embedded on a never disturbing keyboard floor and equipped with a compressure sparkling drumming make the 10 songs or about 44 minutes to an absolutely listening experience. I need not to mention that the vocals of Charles "Chulle" Rytkönen on this sound are like the famous chalk and cheese.
So, INMORA with "Invisible Wounds" is an absolutely obligation for those who count MORGANA LEFAY, TAD MOROSE or LEFAY to their faves!!!
I only hope pleadingly that INMORIA does not have t he end for one of both bands as a consequence!!!

Ron

 

I already waited for a while of the re-release of RESURRECTIONs firstling "Embalmed Existence" of 1993.
Particularly as the reunion of RESURRECTION brought out in 2008 such a sow.strong comeback album like "Mistaken For Dead".
Their new label Massacre Records did it in style and packed 9 ( in words “nine“) bonus songs additionally with a new remastered sound.on the re-release. As a result you ever get slaped around your ears about 72 minutes Old School Death Metal of the type RESURRECTION. And comparisons how the songs "Disembodied", "Rage Within" and "Smell Of Blood" have sounded in their demo version. Who don't know "Embalmed Existence" yet (which is anyway a punishable offence!!!!) should now check the re-release at their local record dealer of trust. Because the songs are gloomy and mean and relatively slow, but also very experimental for a Death Metal album of the early 90-ties. The vocals of Paul DeGolyer come along extremely diversified - growling, whispering, furious, nagging. At the song "Smell Of Blood" the comparison between the demo and the song of "Embalmed Existence" gets interesting. RESURRECTION played the double bass at the finished track distinct faster than before. Primary that way the song got that banger as it is now. It is also worth to compare the two other songs.. ..it is yet cool to hear how20the songs have changed with time from the origin right up to the finished track how you can find it on the album.
Most of all the real slow, dragging, skull milling passages the way they dominate at "Rage within" and "Eyes of blind “ convince at "Embalmed Existence". An even today frightening ensemble which repeats once more at the end of the (old) album with "Pure be damned".
Who has not yet the cd in his cupboard should bring it without fail in their homelike Death Metal halls. Because the album itself convinces with its independency in the contemporary music landscape, but still so much like meanwhile 16 years ago!

Ron

English translation: Claudia

 

That also in Great Britain is celebrated great Thrash Metal shows us here impressively the guys of WARPATH with their debut “Damnation“. The band aorund their sympathic and powerful voiced front - man Richard Goss was not distinguished for no reason as “best unsigned band of the year“ of the Terrorizer magazine.
Very powerful and with hearable great joy of playing the blokes bang 8 tracks around our ears which are on a consistently steady high level and perfect controlled power and let fairly “ crack the crust“.
They already shot a music video of the opener and title track “Damnation“ and also apart from that they raised hefty dust with the in the USA produced cd so that it is surely only a matter of time when this talented band will have a notable deal in their pockets.
Apropos “Damnation“ was mastered by no less a person than James Murphy (Guitarist a.o. at TESTAMENT, DEATH, OBITUARY) and he knows for sure how you get a right crisp sound.
Musically you can attest WARPATH besides their straight line Thrash orientation surely also a good deal of Power20Metal which imparts the already very awesome songs more grip. By the way everyone can convince themself of the bands' live qualities this year also in Germany at the delayed to the end of August Wacken Rocks South and Wacken Rocks Seaside festivals. You can already convince yourself of the cool music namely at www.myspace.com/warpathuk, Stretch your neck muscles and buy this awesome debut cd!!!!

IronIngo

English translation: Claudia

 

You are into the good old US Metal with awesome riffs and the typical high chant? Then you're bang on at the Swedes (!!!) of MANIMAL. Their sound reminds me at times of the ingenious CRIMSON GLORY. Especially "Human Nature" is 100% CRIMSON GLORY. They could not have done it better ... Every once in a while they hang out their European origin. “Dreamers and Fools" sounds somehow of HELLOWEEN with Ralf Scheepers (PRIMAL FEAR) on the mic. "Spinegrinder" is based on an old JUDAS PRIEST tune song and grooves like hell. Smuel "Sam" Nyman sings like a young god and guitarist Henrik "Hank" Stenro os conjures with lots of lifeblood a plenty of new ideas offsleeves. Nothing sounds antiquated, stolen or stale here. It sparks me again and again when bands with the nowadays possible phat productions and cool ideas conjure a deep-rooted Metal of the 80-ies “maintainer“ a smile across the face. By the way the record will be distributed as of June, 19th 2009 at Soulfood Records in Germany. Well, you should be able to obtain it in every well-assorted record store. Come on, let's go and let it bag.

Holger

English translation: Claudia

 

Here it is again, The feeling to have listened to something very special after the first runs of the new MYSTIC PROPHECY album “Fireangel“. At the very beginning of the opener "Across The Gates Of Hell" the neck muscles are that heavily loaded due to the steadily headbanging that you only hear your vertebras snapping.
Wow, this is a wicked sound and a brute impetus which is pushed into your auditory canals. I have expected some innovations after fresh blood came into the band.......but not that “Fireangel“ will be such a mega piece!!!! You ask yourself when listening to all the wicked solis who is Gus G (ex guitarist and now for along time successful with Firewind). This raw, but filigree power is unbelievable. You someway think that Markus Pohl and Constantine play the guitars at MYSTIC PROPHECY for ages which is not quite right. The new rhythm gang (Connie Andreszka - bass and Steve Dittrich – drums) also takes no prisoners and stomp everything into the ground. Yes, and what does the head of the band R.D. Liapakis on vocals...an incredible job which I never undreamed of. E2Lia“ reaches unbelievable highs with his voice.....unbelievable, but just 100% true!!!!
“Fireangel“ is all in all an album on which they put consciously more emphasis on variety and clean melodies. Hammer hard and ultra fast missiles like the already mentioned "Across The Gates Of Hell" or "Death Under Control", but also songs provided with an unbelievable groove like "Father Save Me" or "Devils Crown". Actually it is completely wrong to highlight one of the eleven songs....., because all songs are incredibly strong and simply make hunger of more from the Metal forge MYSTIC PROPHECY.
“Fireangel“ is for me just yet the Power Metal album of the year 2009!!!! Who do not believe me should storm on May, 22nd 2009 the shop of his record dealer of trust and buy the cd. It might be possible that you will suddenly have a convertible on your homeward bound...., because the sound is that brute and sets new standards so that the top of your car will fly off !!!
BUY and listen, listen, listen..........That's all I'm saying..........

Ron

English translation: Claudia

 

Only where BLACK SABBATH is labeled there is BLACK SABBATH inside? That's not quite right. Not only the re-animated “Dehumanizer“ crew Dio, Iommi, Butler and Appice of 1994 are 100% BLACK SABBATH, no also the general impression of the record. Virscous riffs of Iommi paired with the powerful vocals of one of the best singers in the Rock world. Everything as expected. You would love nothing better than scrawling yourself the BLACK SABBATH logo with a phat marker on the booklet. The boys (um ...everyone is in his 60-ies) consciously renamed. By the way the old name of the band is “reserved“ for further actcivities with Ozzy Osbourne although Tony Iommi has the naming rights. Actually too bad.

Holger

English translation: Claudia

 

Since the release of the superior "Painkiller" of JUDAS PRIEST many cds are already dealt as their succesors in the last 18 years. The first cd of the new band of Wade Black (CRIMSON GLORY, LEATHERWOLF), Pete Blakk (ex- KING DIAMOND) and Hal Patino (KING DIAMOND) attends now on these. By a short guest appearance of Andy LaRocque at "Hallowed Death" nearly the whole DIAMOND gang is at the start. Nevertheless the whole has lesser to do with the old scope of the gentlemen than you might think. The vocals of Wade Black are sometimes just before being a pain in the neck.But Metalheads with US Metal steeled ears wil be deeply delighted by his “yelling“. They power and riffle here except some few pauses until the doctor arrives.

Holger

English translation: Claudia

 

Holger

 

The Metal underground is still alive!- And most of all and fortunately also furthermore in the USA. With HELLRAZOR comes an unbelievable hammer from North Carolina down to the Metal community. “In The Wild“ is driving, earthy, popping and most of all pure Heavy Metal in the overlap of bands like CAGE, HANKER, METAL CHURCH and MALICE.
After the first sounds of the opener and title track “In The Wild“ it already becomes immediately clear where the journey will lead us to... After the first “wow“ a broad grin broadens, the skull starts to bob up and down and the floating rhythm seems to hold the whole body in motion. HELLRAZOR, here is the name programme. Trenchant riffs and absolutely ace vocals of Alan Rueda dominate the album from beginning to end.
This cd is a metallic slam-dunk which will hopefully attract the deserved attention and success, because it would be a shame, if these guys will not rock the stage live at not less than one of the hip Metal festivals soon.
There is an absolutely obligation to check them at www.myspace.com/hellrazomc so that all who call themselves Metal fans will take “In The Wild“ as soon as possible in their holy halls!

IronIngo

English translation: Claudia

 

This young talented troop leaves powerful braking marks and steam to the listener and delight me with infernal wicked played kick-ass Rock with Metal attitudes that it sprays. No fiddle-pags or instrumental racket, but balls to the wall a blow on the head with great delight in playing which creates immediately cheerfulness. Just the way uncompromising hard sound should get across. The very good fat production does one more thing. Here are bands like Nashville Pussy, Rose Tattoo, Motörhead or Tank the obvious force behind. Whereby all above mentioned bands except Motorhead do not rock that earthy and powerful in a long time like IRON HORSES do on their debut album “Titan N' Bones“. Ten crispy Rock songs which literally shout for being celebrated live at sweaty stage boards. At this Rock chunk simply everything coincides. A brilliant orchestration and with Sebastian „Babschke“ Wegner a Rock singer who remembers time and again of Blaine Cartwright of the Nashville Pussy .
You could check yourself the vigour of this surpassing band at www.myspace.com/ironhorsesmetal and as far as posible keeping the underground deservedly alive with the purchase of this cd. Towards IRON HORSES I can only say: Keep it up. Very awesome guys!!!

IronIngo

English translation: Claudia

 

Things always seem to happen when you least expect them. So, there's a new album of XIRON called “A Matter Of Gray“ which already have delivered with “Turn To Stone“a real strong debut album in the year 2001.
A decisive advantage of the in December 2008 published new cd is probably the fact that there, too, the original vocalist Miichael Seifert causes to vibrate his vocal cords. He also swings the mic among other things for BLACK DESTINY and REBELLION.
Although meanwhile more than seven years have passed between the debut album and the new album the new material attaches seamless to the very good first one. Solid teutonic steel is offered here which is throughout kept in the mid tempo to up tempo area and the melodic rough vocals put its necessary stamp on the production.
Also in case of XIRON there is again for you Metal addicts the possibility for audio samples and to make contact witht he band at www.myspace.com/xironmeltal. Support this pleasant troupe and and order the current cd for more than a fair fan price and convince yourself!

IronIngo

English translation: Claudia

 

...and once again Sweden.How can it be that this country bears such an unbelievable quantity of high-class Metal bands? This case is about IN SOLITUDE hailing from the beautiful town of Uppsala releasing a real killer album as their debut. Another Must Have for every True Metalian just like the rightly highly appreciated ENFORCER album.IN SOLITUDE are 100% real Metal that should make any Metal maniac enthusiastic.
Just imagine a perfect mixture of MERCYFUL FATE and IRON MAIDEN but without their falsetto vocals. With his powerful voice vocalist "Hornper" gives a mystical touch and depth to tracks like the opener "In The Darkness", the following "Witches' Sabbath" (great !!), "Kathedral", "Faceless Mistress" or the almost majestic "Temple Of The Unknown" . 8 tracks, 8 masterpieces, no fillers, just killers as the saying goes.
This gem has been released as vinyl only on the Underground cult label High Roller Records yet. Check it out on www.hho-records.de as you can find tons of great stuff there. Hurry up and get your copy of this strictly limited vinyl version in lilac-red vinyl !!
There will be a CD release via Pure Steel Records end of February as well, so be prepared.
If you'd like to call every release of this exceptionally gifted band your own you ought to know that there is a 7" release by S.M.P. Records called "Hidden Dangers" that is strictly limited as well.
To get a picture of the musical direction go to www.myspace.com/insolitudeheavymetal. Kneel down that's real Metal Art !!

IronIngo

Translation: Peter Schulien

 

The Italian label "Metal On Metal" already released the latest CATCH 22 killer album that was featured here as well and is currently forging the newest piece of hot iron called HEATHENDOM from Greece.
The musical direction of this extraordinary outfit is mainly influenced by KING DIAMOND mostly due to the brilliant vocals of Dimitris Koutsouvelis.
Instrumentation and vocals really melt into a mystical and powerful sound accompanied by several influences of clasic TROUBLE and legendary SANCTUARY.
Songs like "Burn" (my personal favourite track),the title track "Nescience", the strong "Scenes Of Old" or "I Bleed" that is introduced by a deeply-touching piano part that sometimes reminds me of newer SAVATAGE's dramaturgy are high class tunes that leave the listener wondering how these guys will manage to release an even better follow-up to this brilliant debut album.
In contrast to several established bands whose recent outputs turned out to be either disappointing or boring (I will abstain from naming any examples here) only the Metallic Underground seems to be able to bring forth such Killer Metal. Checking this one out is a must for any true Metal Head.Just visit www.metal-on-metal.com and get a general overview.
This CD is completed by a brilliant cover artwork painted once again by female label boss Jowita Kaminska that fits the music perfectly.

IronIngo

Translation: Peter Schulien

 

After the amazingly strong longplayer debut "A Manifesto For Domination" of HALCYON WAY again another monster Progressive Power Metal album came to my ears. Okay, it is not a full-length album which WICKED WALTZ from Mobile,/ Alabama (USA) took to the start...it is a strong four song EP! But the four songs are that strong that every fan of the progressive Metal style will jump for joy. The guitars (Micah & Jamie) are also really phat here and the rhythm fraction (Wyatt - Bass & Jason – Drums) takes no prisoners! The sound is carried by a slight keyboard carpet (Jeff) which does not affect annoying, because the power is to the fore right from the beginning! On “Chapter One“ which is the tittle of the debut EP the vocalist Jasyn Rushing rises once again above anyone else in the band. It is unbelievable from where all these US progressive bans get their cool vocalists. The 25 minutes are over in a jiffy and you can't avoid to re-start the cd player again and again. Finest Progressive Metal which is addictive and let you hope for a future full-length album. All four songs of “Chapter One“ are playing tips. In case you don't believe me, take a listen to at www.myspace.com/wickedwaltz

Ron

English translation: Claudia

 

Finally I can welcome the HALCYON WAY debut album "A Manifesto For Domination" here in my holy Metal halls. Since I have their three track EP "Deliver The Suffering" at home. I always hoped to be able to hear a full-length album of the boys from Atlanta, Georgia (USA) one day. Because, these three songs of the EP let me expect much more of them. What can I say: HALCYON WAY put with "A Manifesto For Domination" a real phat Progressive Metal album on the start. There it is again ,the feeling to listen to something special. !!! The album not only demands the already totally overused neck musculature. No, "A Manifesto For Domination" goes deeper, much deeper. It forces you to push the repeat button of your cd player again and again. The guitars of Zane Matthews and Jon Bodan powering right from the first beat of the cd. The rhythm part consisting of Erni e Topran (Drums) & Kris Maltenieks (Bass) roll everything into lock, stock and barrel.But most of all the unbelievable vocal accomplishment of vocalist Sean Shields makes "A Manifesto For Domination" perfect. Of course you can also experience here slower parts. Otherwise it would not be a Progressive Metal album. These parts toe the line more than perfect in the whole concept of the album. I can't help those of you who will miss these 57 minutes first class Progressive Metal!!
"A Manifesto For Domination" ist riddled with highlights. After listening to the songs they will fix wih no mercy in your ears und you will never be able to remove them thence. The HALCYON WAY album is a must in the Metal collection for all of you whose faves are the harder FATES WARNING, MAGNITUDE NINE or REDEMPTION.

Playing tips: The whole 57 minutes :-)

Ron

English translation: Claudia

 

The Americán label "Heavy Artillery" from New York that already had presented two tracks of ENRORCER on their "Speed Kills...Again" sampler now delivers us the first full-length album of this Swedish outfit entitled "Into The Night" (release date: November 18th). Once again you are forcefully taken back to the 80ies already by the first notes and confronted with crunchy riffs that couldn't have been better back in the glorious days of the N.W.O.B.H.M. but main acts like MERCYFUL FATE and EXCITER could serve as orientation concerning the musical direction as well. As to the (very positive) feeling and the sound ENFORCER exactly take the same line as the brilliant METAL INQUISITOR.Pure playfulness, heaviness and untamable power, great vocals by Olof Wikstrand and all that embedded in fucking great song material that can just be completely called ingenious. We don't commit any points here but this time it definitely would have to be the full quantity for this is classic Heavy Metal in its purest form! Just to make you yearn for more immediately go to www.myspace.com/enforcerswe and blow your speakers with Rock'N'Roll !!!

IronIngo

Translation: Peter Schulien

 

Can you still remember the EP "Sceptic's Eye" released back in 2007? Finally here we get full treatment with the band's first full-length album.The formation of the band is really interesting. I was very delighted when Brent Sullivan (Winterkill, Slauter Xstroyes, Spirit Web and others) once called me, a veteran of the Metal scene.Scott Huffman (Twelfth Gate,Spirit Web,Syris and others) joined the band as well and sublimates this release with his voice.But now I'll stop this enumeration. Expectations were high in the face of those bands mentioned above. And I didn't get disappointed.Brilliant Progressive Power Metal with lovely melodies and appropriate heaviness.Everything fits perfectly here. No senseless rigging, thus you are able to enjoy this album from its beginning to the last note. Nothing more to say.I'd just like to point out the fact that the songs of the EP mentioned above are included on this longplayer.So you needn't get angry for you haven't missed anything.
To my opinion this one's a must for every serious collection.Great ! Buy it!! Dream !!

RonJacMetal

Translation: Peter Schulien

 

Finally, the longplayer of the Californians SOTHIS which is called “De Oppresso Liber“ is ready. After the first self-titled demo, the second opus of the Americans. A trip into the dark, cold spheres of the cosmos. Brutal, technical, melodic Black Metal. SOTHIS did with their latest release “De Oppresso Liber“ a real good one concerning modern Black Metal anno 2008. Clanging, demise arousing keyboards and powerful drums round off the nine independent songs. Bass and guitars perfectly fit in the reign. Black Metal which does not sound all- American, because the European paragons give their regards to some parts of the cd.. “De Oppresso Liber“ is no copy of any band, but a completely stand-alone one. A must for every Black Metal fan of bands like DIMMU BORGIR and CRADLE OF FILTH. Get interested in? Check them out at www.myspace.com.

Claudia

 

Metal means a lot of fun and it kicks ass massively.That was proved by the Swedish BULLET already by their 2006 release "Heading For The Top" and several brilliant Festival gigs last year, among them the Headbangers Open Air.Now here is the more than dignified follow-up "Bite The Bullet". Vocalist Hell Hofer sounds like a very felicitous mixture of Brian Johnson and Udo Dirkschneider and that's exactly how to describe the enjoyable sound of BULLET best: AC/DC meets ACCEPT! Be it the opener "Pay The Price", the title track "Bite The Bullet", "Dusk Til Dawn" or which track else you like, if they don't make your head shake or your feet bounce you are either deaf or leg amputated...well, I admit that's too drastic but I have to point out that BULLET are no rip-off for their songwriting is much too strong and makes me yearn for so much more! If you like the godly AIRBOURNE album this one's a Must for you. Of course,just as almost always, you have the opportunity to check them out via www.myspace.com/bulletsweden !!!

IronIngo

Translation: Peter Schulien

 

"Rock Thrash" is the term to describe the sound of STONE COLD BLACK best. And it's a pleasant thing as it was proven by their H.O.A. gig this year when they had the ungraceful task to play around noon. But the place in front of the stage soon was filled by a growing crowd of Headbangers being attracted by the band's concise sound. This is surely partly due to vocalist Korea Black (hell yeah, clichés are a must!) roaring like the little brother of Tom Araya off the speakers. Thus tracks like "Day Without Shadows", "Betrayer" or above all "D-Fense" and "Reunity" resemble rocking but nevertheless thrashing compositions of earlier SLAYER, just check these three tracks out on myspace.com and form your own opinion. This band surely is still developable but "The Cell" definitely is a well-done cornerstone, thus support these guys and get this CD into your own "metal cell" !

IronIngo

Translation: Peter Schulien

 

Just to anticipate it right from the beginning, this record is a blast....MEMORY GARDEN are back! But not only that, because the new album "Carnage Carnival" is an impressive comeback of the Swedish Melodic-Power Doom Masters with exceptional singer Stefan Berglund. To be honest, I never thought that they would be capable of making another album and even not such a hammer strong one at all! "Carnage Carnival" appeals as fresh as a debut one of a young, hungry newcomer
band. But you can dissemble the songs that they are created by experienced and mature songwriters. Melodies and hooklines of each song do fit and manifest in your memory with no problem. The opener and title - track “Carnage Carnival” already shows in impressive ways the direction of the 52 minutes longplayer. It seems that MEOMORY GARDEN multiplied their pleasure to play within the last 8 years after the release of the longplayer “Mirage”. They did everything right with "Carnage Carnival" . The production of Mike Wead (KING DIAMOND, MERCYFUL FATE) is powerful and puts every single instrument into the right spot. The cover shows a horrible smiling clown and fits the album like a fist in the eye. You will search in the 10 songs for a failure in vain. At the opposite! One hit follows another!!! For those who are still not convinced that this is a must-have album for all Power - Doom fans like CANDLEMASS, SOLITUDE AETURNUS, F ORSAKEN,
take a look at the video for “Carnage Carnival” at MEMORY GARDENS’ myspace site www.myspace.com/memorygardenofficial It is an obligation to buy. But caution! Addictiveness not excluded!!!!!!!

Ron

Translation: Claudia

 

IronIngo

Translation: Peter Schulien

 

Actually, TX.BARRYT are laid to rest with their current CD release. These recordings were penned back in 1994 shortly before their split. Before that they released a very good debut in 1993 (take a look at the review on www.metal-treasures.com). Nowadays this CD is highly sought after by the collectors and rather expensive. The songs of "Sharx" stay the musical course of its predecessor,that means they still play US Metal. Meanwhile the band has reformed with two new members. And that is mostly due to the band's followers. Persistency finally is worth while. The first result is the CD featured here. Live activities are planned and, of course, new song material is in the making.Let us be taken by surprise what else will happen in the near future. So support the band's enterprise. P.S.: Just feel free to ask for their first CD. Maybe Mickie has still one copy for you in stock. Contact: www.roughcatrecords.de ( www.tx-barryt.com ) ; office@roughcatrecords.de

RonJacMetal

Translation: Peter Schulien

 

Melodic Thrash Metaller SWORN AMONGST from Hull, Great Britain, released their 2nd album at Rising Records. This will take the 4 guys surely a step forward. On their album "and So It Begins" they offer asstight, extremly neck muscle stressing Thrash which does not get boring or drab at any time. Every song is borne by very melodic twin guitars so that you have to bang your fucking head. Tough riffs immediately impresses in one's head and the double bass drumming mills into your brain. All in all they gave "and So It Begins" a pure and weighty sound. This makes the album a real melodic Thrash First Class one you should check out without fail!  www.myspace.com/swornamongst

Ron

Translation: Claudia

 

My goodness, what a killer album! If the guitarist hasn't listened to Yngwie Malmsteen, Joey Tafolla, David T. Chastain and Tony MacAlpine for hours, weeks or even years I'd like to be called Otto from now on. Furious shredding attacks and neo classical guitar work celebrated at its best. But not in the ususal way as we know it from the guys mentioned above but in the best Death/Thrash manner. The album grooves and bangs right from the start until the end. Brilliant. The guitarist named Balmore is responsible for the vocal parts as well and, damn it, he really has a characteristic voice that kicks ass heavily and makes the already very hard songs even harder. His chap Conan on rhythm guitar keeps up with him as far as having fun playing music and technical aspects are concerned. It would be a nice thing to see this duo play live in concert. Actually the complete band sounds rather tight and much more mature than several other hyped bands of the New Wave Of American Thrash Metal. I personally like this album even a bit more than the predecessing releases of Heavy Artillery which already were of high quality.

Holger

Translation: Peter Schulien

 

       

Some times ago I found both demo cds of GRIFFEN from Sweden in my Metal mailbox. As I already observed their musical work, I knew too well what I could expect from the 9 songs. All in all 45 minutes real cool Heavy Metal from both demos (2007 "Griffen" und 2008 "Linked In Eternity") comes out of the loudspeakers of my stereo. You can describe the sound of GRIFFEN as typical US Metal of the 80s with a pinch of European steel like TAROT and PRETTY MAIDS.
I wouldn't wonder, if a label would sign the Swedish guys soon with a long-term contract. In case not, the labels will definitely miss something. This again would be no wonder!!!
If you are not convinced yet, take a look at www.myspace.com/griffentheband, listen to the songs and get convinced.

Ron

Translation: Claudia

 

MOONSORROW did with their latest opus „Tulimyrsk“ another masterpiece of Pagan / Folk Metal. The EP contains 5 songs. The opener called „Tulimyrsk“ is 30 minutes long and sowith pretty hard to handle for the listener. Silent narration passages alterate with epic Pagan Metal like we already know from MOONSORROWS previous releases. But long songs are not seldom for the guys around Ville Sorvali (vocals, bass).
Besides the above mentioned first song MOONSORROW did genious unique cover versions of Metallica „For Whom The Bell Tolls“ and Merciless „Back To North“. Two new recorded old demo songs, „Taistelu Pohjolasta“ and „Hvergelmir“ complete the album. A must for every Pagan Metal fan. For more information, please visit the bands' homepage at www.Moonsoorow.com or check them out at www.myspace.com/moonsorrowofficial.

Claudia

 

The Britians JUDAS PRIEST, along with IRON MAIDEN and BLACK SABBATH, definitely are one of the most important and influencing bands of the meanwhile nearly 30 years of Heavy Metal history. When IRON MAIDEN released their debut album back in 1980 the Priests already had put out stately five studio albums and one live album. Even nowadays the question which band was the first real Metal band is partly heavily discussed within the Inner Metal Circles. I myself agree with those who state that JUDAS PRIEST's "British Steel" released in 1980 started off the New Wave Of British Heavy Metal. Thirty years later these meanwhile aged but totally fit veterans release a concept album consisting of 23 tracks on two CDs. "Metal God" Rob Halford delivers the same brilliant vocal work as ususal and the most perfect guitar duo of the whole Metal scene Glen Tipton/K.K.Downing shines with ear-catching riffs and emotional solos. Those among you who know and like JUDAS PRIEST will soon realize that the sound strongly resembles the more experimental era of "Defenders Of The Faith" and "Turbo". As the album title already anticipates this opus deals with the prophecies of Nostradamus. His fantasies and prophecies are embedded in a Metal Opera in a simply brilliant manner. To put it short: "Nostradamus" is an epic master piece. Of course the listeners will once again be divided into two camps but this fact somehow belongs to JUDAS PRIEST. If you still should be in wait of "Painkiller II" you are a helpless case indeed...

Holger

Translation: Peter Schulien

 

With their debut album Requiem For The Living, Yigael's Wall from San Francisco, USA, tout for favour of the Thrash Metal heads. And they are not awkward with it. After a dark intro, the guys show us a real old school Thrash Metal attack. They approach it very sovereign. Although, Yigael's Wall do not re-invent Thrash Metal, they range within their Trash Metal frame very certain and straight to the aim. Every Thrash Head will be able to imagine how this sounds like...Snotty, hot and very harsh vocals, close to the threshold to grunts, sawing guitars and a fast playing rhythm section who does not blench of breakneck breaks. You can excellent headbang to the powerful and aggressive nine songs (plus 4 demo songs). Often pretty fast and straight = straight in your face. The songs will manifest immediately in your ears and know how to please the listener. To all classic Thrash Metal fans, write „Requiem For The Living“ on your shopping list. Or just check it out at www.myspace.com/yigael39swall.

Ron

Translation: Claudia

 

CONQUEST, Power/Trash Metal from St. Louis (Missouri), US of A, report back powerful with their fifth CD called "End Of Days". Until now, the band had been nearly totally ignored here in Europe which is all greek to me. Like the four previous albums "End Of Days" impresses with stunning grooves, gripping chorous, brilliant solis and an unique mixture of hard driving Power Metal and brutal skull splitting Thrash Metal. End Of Days offers everything a Power / Thrash Metal fan will expect from an album. Songs to sing along with like "Walk Alone", grooving monsters like "It's All Over" or merciless Thrash songs like "Annihilation Complete". The very best song of this album for me is "Killer Machine"! To describe it would break the mould. Only that much, you can't keep calm ... headbanging is a must!!! You don't believe me, just listen to the killer song at www.myspace.com/conquestmetal . Time is more than right now to give Derrick Brumley (vocals, guitar), Mike Crook (guitar), Tony Restivo (bass) and Tim Fleetwod (drums) the attention they already have earned.

Ron

Translation: Claudia

 

Finally a new album of this cult band of the 80ies. Taking a look at the setlist you will soon realize that this album doesn't contain any new material but this fact won't decrease the joy factor at all. Everybody being into the band will be able to enjoy and remember SACRED OATH's Keep It True gig in November 2007. If you haven't been there you are at least offered the opportunity to listen to them live on CD. The well-balanced mixture of songs of both regular albums released back in 1987 and the brilliant comeback of 2007 will leave no wishes unfulfilled unless an urgent need for more !!!

RonJacMetal

Translation: Peter Schulien

 

With their current release the Swedish Metal Warriors SABATON have managed to top themselves.Fortunately, they have kept their trademarks and moreover the charismatic vocalist Joakim Broden (rolls the "R" in deepest conviction) shows the band's most important benefit: Originality making them much easier to recognize ! Lyrically the CD is based on a book entitled "The Art Of War" written by a Chinese general called Sun Tzu in the year 600 before Christ which still serves as training stuff at militarian academies today. The spoken word intros underline the thematic direction and directly lead us towards "Ghost Division" that's introduced by "Sun Tzu Says" and starts off the metallic thick of the fight. The sound is unbelievably powerful, no wonder because Peter and Tommy Tägtgren have recorded and mixed this album. Besides SABATON have improved their songwriting and deliver us their strongest song material ever. Live in concert they will be present in Wacken and at the Sweden Rock Festival this year and I am sure they will kick ass heavily as they have already proved several times. The limited first edition of the CD by the way will be released in an elaborate DVD packaging including the aforesaid book "The Art Of War" and with an over-the-top killer artwork by Jobert Mello so it will be very interesting not only for the collectors and hunters among you. Apropos over-the-top:these guys have put the complete album online for pre-listening, just go to www.myspace.com/sabaton and off it goes, for further information get to the band's homepage www.sabaton.net. The band is definitely ready to storm the gates !

IronIngo

Translation: Peter Schulien

 

After the first listening session I was both surprised and enthusiastic. If I wouldn't know better I would never have guessed this is a band from France not only due to the English vocals. Finest melodic Power Metal mixed of the best elements of US and Euro Metal bombs off the speakers. The powerful and more high-pitched vocals of Stefan Tudela are the top of the cream. This guy knows his job well and is definitely my cup of tea. But the other musicians don't splash out either. They really show off and don't fiddle about. To my opinion one of the best releases of our neighbour country in recent times.
Stay this course.  www.edensands-band.com

RonJacMetal

Translation: Peter Schulien

 

The name says it all. This is the new project of David Vaccaro who has been also responsible for the musical rendition. Unfortunately, it seems as if he couldn't find any combatants. What a pity because the rock music is rather suited to daily use and far off any experiments. But look, the vocal job was partly done by someone else who definitely is no unknown singer. If you still can remember MSG (McAuley Schenker Group) you will already know who I mean. Right, Robin McAuley has participated in this album. That's an additional incentive for the whole thing. Definitely no music for headbanging but the right amusement for a cosy evening at the barbeque. www.dmvmusic.com

RonJacMetal

Translation: Peter Schulien

 

Today the Americans BY BLOOD ALONE grace us with their still current release. According to the promo info it is Gothic/Progressive/Metal. Well, I take note of it but actually this CD tastes like a good beer. No weird stuff or doomy music. No, just solid handmade Hardrock/Metal with a slight shot orotundity and progressive elements but always with a sterss on melody. Due to the female vocals you can draw comparisons to NIGHTWISH or WITHIN TEMPTATION as well. Well, and that's the crucial point for I wished there would be more aggresiveness within Cruella's voice. It would serve the tunes well. Thus the songs sound too tame. Nevertheless, you should take the trouble to listen to them on their homepage. www.bybloodalone.com

RonJacMetal

Translation: Peter Schulien

 

Ron

Translation: Peter Schulien

 

Really strange which kind of things are sometimes put into my mailbox. This CD surely isn't appropriate to these sites. But it doesn't matter, thus everybody will get to know what hides behind this release. I won't make any statements about the music either for it is definitely a matter of taste. Anyway, my wife likes the five songs delivered here. Dear prompters, before sending a Promo-CD make sure that it contains the complete album. Patchwork you better keep for yourself. And take a close look at the musical direction of our homepage preliminarily !!). So and now I will finally let you know that the music of Dive is for those of you being into bands like Coldplay, Snow Patrol or Melee. Nothing for True Metalians.

RonJacMetal

Translation: Peter Schulien

 

Finally, here is the first CD release of this band formed back in 2004. According to their biography on their homepage THE VENGEFUL FEW are totally dedicated to the legendary 80ies Metal. A statement that's delightfully received by me and my sensitive ears and that's instantly proved by the first few beats of the opening track. It became a smooth and relaxing car ride. I congratulate these guys on the fact that they didn't promise too much. Their typical US Metal combined with a mixture of IRON MAIDEN / JUDAS PRIEST makes the music taste like a good Scotch fillet. Guess an old Metal Maniac like me doesn't need to wish for more. Furthermore Tom Catuosco and John Zambri demonstrates us how to play a real lead guitar whereas vocalist Keith Vitali skillfully refines the songs with his palatable voice. Yeah, my peg leg is sweeping to the beat, hargh hargh. Hope there are several German distributors who will read these lines (they'll do so anyway) and order this CD from the band. www.thevengefulfew.com

RonJacMetal

Translation: Peter Schulien

 

BYFIST from Texas nowadays consist of not less than three actual and one former member of REVEREND (Davey Lee, Notch Vara, Jay Wegener and Jesse Vera). The band potters about within the Underground since 1987 (including a break between 1992 and 1999) facing many line-up changes and is surely known only by hardcore Metal Maniacs. Therefor they have absolute cult status. The opening track "Mary Celeste" taken from the EP "Adrenalin" released in 1989 determines the musical direction of the following 50 minutes. This is the way straight US Metal has to sound like. Killer tracks like the speedy "Meltdown" will inevitably bring tears of joy to your eyes. Strange: Not less than four different vocalists can be heard on this release (among them former FIARRO shouter Vikk Real, nowadays member of ONE OF SIXX). Everybody who is into US Metal bands like HEIR APPARENT, SACRED RITE, SHOK PARIS or WARRIOR should add BYFIST to his shopping list.

Holger

Translation: Peter Schulien

 

After more than ten years WHITESNAKE boss David Coverdale finally managed to release a new studio album. And
the white snake from Great Britain shows that it still knows how to rock in contrast to the slightly disappointing "Restless Heart". Once again it is impressive how the band shows its complete range from the down-to-earth Blues Rock of their early days to powerful Hard Rock tunes. Of course there is no WHITESNAKE album without the obligatory ballads. Thus "All I Want All I Need", "Till The End Of Time" or "Lay Down Your Love" (strongly reminding of their all-time classic "Still Of The Night") are exactly that kind of tearjerkers that have become a distinctive trademark of the band throughout the past meanwhile more than thirty years. And when the guys around their macho Coverdale start to rock they don't fiddle about but really slog. New guitarist Doug Aldrich (surely well-known by his engagements with LION and DIO) already did a briliant job on the "Live In The Still Of The Night" DVD. Now in the studio his work can be confirmed to be as good as John Sykes (THIN LIZZY) on the godly "1987" album or guitar wizard Steve Vai on "Slip Of The Tongue". WHITESNAKE show in an impressive manner and representative for all their other "elder" colleagues that you needn't be thrown on the scrap heap necessarily when you are aged beyond fifty. David Coverdale is quoted to have said: "It is very masculine. Very muscular!". I couldn't describe this album better !

Holger

Translation: Peter Schulien

 

Ladies and Gentlemen, here comes the OUTLAW INVASION !!
Indeed ... the meanwhile fourth album of the hellish rocking Colognian band GUN BARREL is really loaded with straight-ahead kick-ass Power Rock 'N Roll milling itself right into your braincells. The guys around guitarist Rolf Tanzius have fully concentrated on their original sound once again and conjured up 12 songs to the light of day that simply rock. But if you think that GUN BARREL mark time and just sound like on their predecessing outputs you are totally wrong !!! Power Rockers like for example "Turn To Black" or "The Redeemer" are usual stuff but this time the prehistoric rocks from "Dometown" also have dared to pen a ballad ("Tomorrow Never Comes") that creeps doomy and melancholic off the speakers. All in all there are several changes to note in comparison to the predecessor "Bombard Your Soul" released back in 2005 (just listen to the very ear-catching "Keep On Movin' "). But anyway GUN BARREL are still 100% GUN BARREL ... and "Outlaw Invasion" persuades me completely !!!

Ron

Translation: Peter Schulien

 

When I reviewed "Symbols In Stone" long time ago this band was totally unknown. But meanwhile many people have witnessed the high musical quality of this album and thus it attracted more and more attention within the Underground. Nowadays, the private pressing is sold out. Pitiful enough the CD had a very short playing-time although the band had several unreleased songs in their back hand. But now, my devotional wish for more material finally gets fulfilled.
Finally they have found a label offering them a metallic home. The name Pure Steel Records says it all. Bearing such a name you simply must sign bands like this. But now to the CD. The seven tracks of "Symbols In Stone" are included as an additional bonus. The main point though is the official release of the song material of "Secrets Vol.I". Finally you get much value for money. All in all 16 tracks will make any Truemetalian perform a dance into springtime. The newer songs are definitely as brilliant as the elder ear-catchers. Music in the vein of cult acts like CIRITH UNGOL, OMEN, MANILLA ROAD etc. True, truer, truest...ENCHANTER. Now it is up to the band to keep the fire burning. Hopefully these guys will come up with brand new song material soon, otherwise it would be a great pity. So, Pure Steel staff, kick 'em in their asses. We are waiting for it, but not too long. A Must Have !! www.puresteel-records.com

RonJacMetal

Translation: Peter Schulien

 

What a beginning. You are looking forward to a year full of musical surprises and soon get ironed by some unknown band in a way that you have to ask yourself how this album could be topped by any other release this year. Whatever may come later on this year, the second album of the Slovenian band DEKADENT to my mind already belongs to the highlights of 2008. If PINK FLOYD would play Black Metal it could sound similar to this for DEKADENT's music is kind of Soundtrack-like just like the music of the legendary godfathers mentioned above. Even genre external instruments like tube or horns are used here frequently. The symphonic and almost bombastically arranged parts remind me of DIMMU BORGIR whereas the created atmospehere resembles bands like ULVER, MOONSORROW or AGALLOCH. The guitar riffs partially sound rather Doom Metal-like, that's another major point. The CD alone already serves us with high-quality movie-theater for the head but the contents of the additional DVD will leave you totally speechless. An epic with a total playing-time of 40 minutes obviously dealing with the subject of the loss of a beloved person will arrest your attention just like a feature film. Nevertheless there is enough space left for your own interpretation so that you will be able to develop new thoughts every time you watch it. If you are willing to engage in "Deliverance Of The Fall" you will be rewarded both with an acoustical and visual masterpiece.  Home: www.dekadent.si

Holger

Translation: Peter Schulien

 

Bang your fucking head, Man- Something like that would be the reaction of good old Messiah Marcolin when getting to hear this ton heavy riff monster. Hour Of 13 is called the briliant debut of vocal master Phil Swanson (former Vestal Claret) and riff master Chad Davis who has recorded the whole instrumentation alone. A hellish brew of old BlackSabbath, Pentagram, Candlemass and The Sword creates a heavily steamy Doom album with tight songs without boring lengths. All tracks clock in around five minutes with the exception of the roundabout eight minute "Missing Girl" being worthy every second though and pointing out the great skills vocal- and riff-wise. Hour Of 13 call their music "True Original Occult Doom" and that's definitely right for this here is real True Metal, listen closely, Mister De Maio !!! Visit www.myspace.com/hourof13doom and check out the two appetizers "The Correlation" and "Grim Reality". Believe me, the rest of the album material is just as fucking brilliant !! Vnyl junkies (like me) should hurry up to get one of the rare copies in very nice redmarbled or true black vinyl... the CD should be available at every good Underground dealer's store. This Underground highlight is completed by a very powerful sound and a very cool and doomy cover artwork that would perfectly fit a long overdue new Mercyful Fate release. The clear-cut valuation is: CD of the month February 2008 !!!

IronIngo

Translation: Peter Schulien

 

Today a tip for insiders again. This album is completely rooted within the 80ies. The album title speaks for itself. This band already had put out a Mini-LP back in 1989 that was also perpetuated on the Greek bootleg "Hard'n Heavy Vol.11".
All in all this CD contains 10 tracks including the five tracks of the Mini-LP mentioned above but there are no musical differences to discover between the older and the newer tracks. Solid US Metal gently flatters the most important organ of a Metal Maniac (of course, it is impossible to fill in beer there). The first guitar riff of the song "One Voice" immediately brings Metallica to my mind. But don't worry, it is the only time, not the hundredth copy. Otherwise the songs are held in mid tempo like Metal Church and Co. Guess that should be reason enough for every old-school Metal Maniac to add this CD to his collection.Of course, newcomers are welcome as well. www.rychussyn.com  or (Greg): maniscalco1@verizon.net

RonJacMetal

Translation: Peter Schulien

 

After recording their first demo back in 2004, ARMORY from Massachusetts now come forth with a very strong and speed-laden Power Metal album that had three years time to ripen and that surprisingly sounds very European and with regard to one band Brazilian as well. Just imagine a very felicitous and coherent mixture of ANGRA ("Holy Land" era), the first RHAPSODY album a slight shot of BLIND GUARDIAN and -due to vocalist Adam Kurland- a touch of EDGUY.
However, ARMORY also deliver us an epic ballad called "Forever Triumphant" that could be unlimitedly found on a MANOWAR album as well. The Intro "The Tempest" has become very epic, too just before all hell turns loose with "Faith In Steel". Except for the ballad mentioned above all tracks are held in uptempo and lyricwise we are served our beloved clichés. Tracks like "Riding The Cosmic Winds", "Warrior Forlorn", "Forged In Dragon Flames" (brilliant! Unfortunately just an instrumental but the title says it all...) or "Mystic Star" should be proof enough, I guess.
The title track "The Dawn Of Enlightenment" has become a real monumental VIRGIN STEELE-ish epic of almost 14 minutes playing-time.Metal Heart, what could you demand more ?!
This well-done CD is completed by the bonus tracks "Flight Of Icarus" (an IRON MAIDEN cover tune, of course...) and the brief but firm instrumental "Dr.Wily". Visit the band's homepage www.faithinsteel.com and get all the information you need about this talented outfit. If these guys stay their musical course of down-to-earth Power Metal and don't get enmeshed in Prog, Epic and orotundity we will surely get to hear of ARMORY again, at least in the Underground !

IronIngo

Translation: Peter Schulien

 

A TORTURED SOUL from Milwaukee/USA impresively prove how variable and original the Metal Underground can be.
As follow-up to their 10 Track Demo-CD-R "Tomorrow's Door" released back in 2005 these guys now come forth with their first full-length album including -among others- six tracks of this demo which yet have been completely rerecorded and rearranged. This aspect of course makes the demo a highly collectible item for the die-hard collectors and purists among you (but be careful not to pay too much money for it; remember it is a CD-R !).
Musicwise "Kiss Of The Thorn" can easily be described as MERCYFUL FATE meets ICED EARTH with mercilessly brilliant guitar riffs, precise and powerful drumming and a vocalist (Rick Black) who is a unique mixture of King Diamond and Ozzy Osbourne (concerning the timbre) but without reaching the quality of the original singers yet. Nevertheless, Rick Black's voice is a main aspect to A TORTURED SOUL's prominent sound ! The musical symbiosis described above can easily be made out in fantastic tracks like "Nocturne", "Little Girl", "Altar Of Sangria" or "Parasite".
Once again you are offered the opportunity to get significant sound files directly via www.myspace.com/torturedsoulmusic. Praise and above all purchase this new US Metal gem, these guys have metalized blood in their veins and surely deserve your support.

IronIngo

Translation: Peter Schulien

 

After their very strong debut album "N.W.O.G.H.M." already featured here on this site VIRON present us the follow-up "Ferrum Gravis" (release date 22.02.2008) and the sound (thank goodness) still is very U.S.American influenced, bands like Leatherwolf or Oliver Magnum are to be mentioned here to describe the sound and the musical direction.
Nevertheless, there are several changes in comparison to the predecessing album, so, for example, the sound is more powerful but more polished at the same time and the songs are more worked out, some points that not necessarily are positive, just remember the musical development of Pretty Maids. There's something for everyone to offer, ranging from the ballad "War" (very good and profound lyrics but musically without any tempo changes and thus a little bit boring) to Mid tempo tracks like "Sniper" or the brilliant "Master Ball" up to speedy tracks like the well-done opener "Liberator".
Vocalwise everything's alright as well this time for Alexx Stahl is a master of voice reminding me of Jorn Lande again and again and thus allows a comparison to Masterplan as well. Nevertheless I have to point out that despite the skills of the instrumentalists and the brilliant vocals an extra dose of aggressiveness would have helped this album very much. It is the same problem as with the latest Ruffians release (on Metal Heaven as well).
On www.myspace.com/viron1 you can get an impression of the band and if you should come accross the opportunity to see them live in concert you shouldn't miss it for they drop down the hammer heavily on stage just as they already impressively proved it on several festivals like the Headbangers Open Air or the Swordbrothers.

IronIngo

Translation: Peter Schulien

 

Even people who dig the Metal Underground constantly will hardly find a band like RAZOR FIST. But after polishing the CD it once again turns out to be a real gem that you hold in your hands. Totally unique and almost odd US Speed Power Metal from Wisconsin grabbing you tight for a long time, that means: love it or hate it! There is nothing in between. To draw a musical comparison try to imagine a mixture of CIRITH UNGOL and MANILLA ROAD on speed...with an additional dose of EXCITER. Thus you're gasping for words at the first moment, ten tracks keeping up the same high and brilliant level. Immediately visit www.myspace.com/razorfistmetal as an appetizer and wonder about your unbelieving ears trying to digest this piece of steel. Afterwards, when the spark has started a burning fire hurry up and go to krukenberg@freenet.de to order it and finally listen to the complete work at home on your knees!
Just like it is nicely written in the booklet of the CD: Come join the Razor Fist Force! Heavy Metal is no marketing gimmick, it is a life style!!! According to this ...

IronIngo

Translation: Peter Schulien

 

Brutal,more brutal, STRIKEMASTER ! Angry, crunchy and fucking brilliant Thrash Metal will shred your skin down to the bone when listening to this in an appropriate volume (and this one's got to be heard loud !!!). These three Trash maniacs from Mexico have already shared the stage with MERCILESS DEATH and FUELED BY FIRE in the past, two bands we have featured here very positively as well. The CD title "Up For The Massacre" is program here and thus it starts off with "Maximum Amount Of Aggressions" directly straight in your face at maximum speed with intense riff attacks, pumping bass, slamming drums and the aggressive yet controlled shouted vocals of Colonel Camou. To get almost a rough picture of a musical comparison to this brilliant thunderstorm try to imagine a mixture of old KREATOR, SLAYER and a slight shot of S.O.D. with SLAYER being by far the biggest influence. Of course, STRIKEMASTER are no simple SLAYER rip-off at all for tracks like "Thrashing The Blind School", "Ritual Killings", "Merciless Machine" or most of all the title track "Up For The Massacre" are too unique and make this band simply unmistakable. Thrash with class !! If this CD had been released back in the 80ies... you surely know what I mean...
This issue is completed by a skilled cover artwork and a significant booklet. For example, there is an ultimative hate list behind the clear tray of the inner side of the CD that strongly confirms the band's attitude towards true Metal. As often you will find sound files at myspace under www.myspace.com/strikemaster666 and if you want to purchase this ripper you best get in contact with Berlin's Metal icon Rainer Krukenberg via krukenberg@freenet.de. On this occasion you also should visit his detailed homepage www.metaleros.de if you are interested in Middle and South American Metal bands.
And now, just to say it in the words of bassist Sargent Diego and his thankslist: NOW PLAY THIS AS LOUD AS YOU CAN, FUCKING PUSSY ! Guess I needn't add any more words...

IronIngo

Translation: Peter Schulien

 

The band providing us with the CD of the month December hails from Karlskoga in Sweden. Power food for everyone of you who regretfully misses the glorious 70ies and the original BLACK SABBATH sound. But also those of you being into more modern bands like C.O.C., VOLBEAT, SPIRITUAL BEGGARS or THE SWORD should pay attention to ETERNAL FEAR. The big difference to other bands of this musical direction is vocalist Ove Jonsson. His clean (almost US Metal compatible) vocals perfectly contrast the extremely low and fat sounding guitars. Actually I was confused by the band logo resembling the one of GRIM REAPER and by the Death Metal-like cover artwork but you shouldn't judge a CD by such superficial impressions. According to guitarist Mattias Thomasén this by the way brilliantly produced item will be released as a Digipack edition in the near future. Take your chance to listen to it already now under www.myspace.com/eternalfearmetal or visit the band's homepage www.eternalfear.com. This CD rocks like hell. So put it under arrest as soon as possible !

Holger

Translation: Peter Schulien

 

A dream has come true for lots of Bangers recently for several bands have formed to hail the good Old School Thrash Metal. Some of them have already been featured here (MERCILESS DEATH, FUELED BY FIRE). And that's exactly where SANITARIUS continue. 4 killer tracks with a giant dose of Power, melody and brilliant killer riffs far beyond merciless slaughtering. Here you are offered the possibility to put your neck vertebra back into their right position without being in danger of collapsing afterwards. To put it short, the first albums of FORBIDDEN and TESTAMENT are the godfathers of this release. Hope this Mini-CD will only serve as an appetizer for the first full-length album hopefully to be released in 2008. I'm begging for it !!

RonJacMetal

Translation: Peter Schulien

 

With "Hymns Of Dissension" KATAGORY V have finally reached the Premier League of Prog/Power Metal Bands like for example FATES WARNING.Progressive Metal meets classic US Power Metal.Album No. 4 of this band from Salt Lake City is close to perfection.Powerful yet melodically very tight and ear-catching compositions and an outstanding vocalist are the main formative elements of KATAGORY V's sound. "Hymns Of Dissension" even may soon become an Alltime Classic ! Moreover it is worth while purchasing both the American and the European release for they each contain two different bonus tracks.

Ron

Translation: Peter Schulien

 

The metallic lighthouse at the Côte d'Azur has returned with its third full-length album "Infight" !!! Founded back in 2000 in Nizza KRAGENS never managed to leave their status as best kept secret of the Underground despite excellent reviews (the debut "Dying In A Desert" is reviewed elsewhere on this site !) and brute live performances.With "Infight" the guys around former DEMON EYES shouter Renaud Espeche finally managed to create a very original mixture of Power and Thrash Metal that is nailed to your auricles unambiguously.The brilliant song material is completed and refined by an exquisit sound courtesy of Tue Madsen just like on the predecessing album "Seeds Of Pain".KRAGENS are now ready to conquer the throne occupied by such bands as NEVERMORE or ICED EARTH presently.If you shouldn't have checked out KRAGENS yet it is high time to make up for it. It is worth while for every Power/Thrash Metal maniac.

Ron

Translation: Peter Schulien

 

IronIngo

Translation: Peter Schulien

 

These days, I received TIMELORD's debut album inside of my sacred Metal Halls. Very delighted I immediately fetched the CD and threw it into my CD rack. My expectations were high due to the already very strong 2005 EP "Dawn Of Dissent". But what guitarist and vocalist Matt Aub (yes, exactly the former FORGOTTEN REALM vocalist) and his mates provide us with here has made my jawbone drop down. "Regeneration" is a metallic tempest for every banger who is into hard, slightly progressive Metal with some thrashy ingredients. It doesn't matter whether you listen to the melodic songs (like "Slaves") or to the thrashy ones (like "Sparks Of Rebellion"), this album provided with a killer sound forces you to bang your head and to press the repeat button again and again.
Actually, it is useless to point out single highlights of the ten tracks (plus three additional bonus tracks) but "Sirens" is one of these songs everyone of you ought to have heard at least once in his metallic lifetime !!! The same goes for the Cover of RAVEN's "Faster Than The Speed Of Light" where TIMELORD were given support by original vocalist John Gallagher.
Two thumbs up for "Regeneration" and 100 out of 100 points (ha... if we were awarding with points at Metal-Rulez.de !!!).
Everything else simply would be totally ridiculous.

Ron

Translation: Peter Schulien

 

I was really eager to get to know if PAGAN'S MIND would be able to surpass their 2005 Prog Metal highlight "Enigmatic...Calling" with their new album ! And what shall I say? The guys around exceptional vocalist Nils K. Rue (who is engaged with EIDOLON as well) really managed to do so. Extremely complex, yet dynamic, delightful in playing and experimenting these five Norwegians present themselves on "God's Equation". Jörn Viggo Lofstad not only conjures up weird solos on his guitar but also creates one brute guitar wall after the other. This album is loaded with Progressive Power Metal highlights ... and top of the cream is the more than 8 minutes lasting "Osiris' Triumphant Return", a progressive Power Metal track making you jump off your armchair and ROCK ! Be aware you so-called Prog Metal Gods out there...PAGAN'S MIND are ready to conquer the throne with their new release. Without exaggeration: "God's Equation" has everything to become a Progressive Power Metal classic.

Ron

Translation: Peter Schulien

 

Finally it is out, the follow-up to "Lies In Black". Nowadays it is no longer self-evident that a band releases another album for most Underground outfits exactly perish inside of this pit. RESISTANCE instead meanwhile stay their ground for several years now. And their new output clearly proves why. More sophisticated song-writing and complexity show the enormous improvement in quality which refines the eleven new neck-breaking killer tracks. Maybe their new guitarist Dave Watson partly has contributed to this fact. Just speculating though. Nevertheless, these Power Metal missiles penetrate your brain mercilessly and sometimes sound like a combination of Old School ICED EARTH, FORBIDDEN, CAGE etc. due to several guitar riffs and vocal parts. Just check out "Ashes Of Tomorrow", "Paternal Shift" (guest vocals by Loana D.P.- Valencia / Lead solo by Jim Durkin) and "Mirrors Black".
If you already liked the predecessing album you ought to purchase this CD as soon as possible as well. True Metal Freaks should do the same, of course.

RonJacMetal

Translation: Peter Schulien

 

                                                                    Totally brilliant Metal Album !!!
This is all it needs to describe MYSTIC PROPHECY's fifth album and to urge you all who are into uncompromising Power Metal to hurry towards your trusted record dealers to get a copy ot this mighty and merciless album "Satanic Curses".
Expectations were extremely high after the very strong 2006 release "Savage Souls" but despite this heavy burden the band had to carry the result is simply fantastic! One killer track follows the other including tons of mega killer riffs of the guitar duo Markus Pohl and Martin Grimm, be it Uptempo missiles like "Damnation" and "Back From The Dark" or Mid tempo smashers like "Sacrifice Me" or "Demon's Blood". R.D. Liapakis has improved his singing skills again and even uses some deep growls like in the opening track "Back From The Dark". The force of the rhythm section consisting of drummer Matthias Straub and bassist Martin Albrecht reduces everything to ash and leaves no doubt about the sound of the band. They even cover the Black Sabbath classic "Paranoid" in a way that your lower jaw will drop down towards the floor. Rarely did I hear such a perfect version of this legendary tune (except the original one of course). So naturally a good sound is a must but this is provided by the same team that already refined the predecessing album "Savage Solus" (Fredrik Nordström and R.D.Liapakis).
To put it short: "Satanic Curses" is a forceful Power Metal masterpiece that is a must for every serious Metal collection and that will block your CD player for a long time. My only recommendation is ... BUY IT, BUY IT, BUY IT! Otherwise you will miss a Power Metal milestone!!!
Before I forget to say: MYSTIC PROPHECY's European tour booked for the first quarter of 2008 is a must for every Metal maniac for they already showed their live qualities during a lot of festival shows in the past (BYH, Rock Hard Open Air, Earthshaker, Metal Camp for example).

Ron

Translation: Peter Schulien

 

After their very strong comeback album "Sonic Bullet" released back in 2003 and this year's limited "Storm Of Steel" EP DESTRUCTOR are finally back with their new output "Forever In Leather" (release date Oct. 23rd 2007) that even tops my already high expectations. There was no doubt about the fact that this album would become a brilliant piece of steel but the final result blows me off my shoes with its "Reign In Blood" effect (copyright by me !!).
"Tear Down The Heavens" starts off with full force. Sheer power with a great melody, that's what you call an ear-catcher. The following "Skull Splitter" roars off my speakers like an EXODUS-killer track whereas "World Of War" is anthemic like a CAGE tune. The title track "Forever In Leather" somehow reminds me of the ANVIL classic track "Mothra" ("Metal On Metal" album) due to its refrain. But be aware of the fact that these comparisons are only hints for this album is 100% DESTRUCTOR !!! The closing track "Pounding Warriors" stands for itself,pounding metal til the end and in a so convincing manner that you have to call DESTRUCTOR the spearhead of the Underground with a consolidated status.
The heavy and powerful production is courtesy of Don Depew (guitarist of the legendary BREAKER !) who also produced the brilliant WRETCH-CD. Auburn Records label boss Bill Peters would give us real public holidays by realizing a European tour of these two bands as soon as possible in order to lay down clubs and small halls into ash.
For further information check out www.auburnrecords.com and blow your ears on www.myspace.com/maximumdestructor.
Straight in-your-face Power-Thrash Metal at its best.If there should be an award for the best CD of the year DESTRUCTOR'S "Forever In Leather" would be one of the most promising candidates.

IronIngo

Translation: Peter Schulien

 

IronIngo

Translation: Peter Schulien

 

Exactly 20 years ago this band had already released an unfortunately totally overlooked 7 song demo. If they had put it out as a vinyl private pressing back then collectors around the world nowadays would start a bloody massacre and pay a lot of money just to get a copy. After this long time the band has felt the urgent need once again to dust off their instruments and re-animate the Heavy Metal Spirit.
A few months ago five tracks served as appetizers, the now released full-length album contains 11 lively tracks in total including those five mentioned above. There have been added several killer tracks, indeed. Surely, not everything that shines is gold but these guys didn't lose their belief in True Metal. And thus they still offer us fine mid-paced US Metal in the vein of the glorious 80ies destined to massage your ears. Fortunately, the compositions don't sound like the hundredth copy of some well-known band. Moreover, there are some interesting slicing slow-motion guitar parts. Sounds nice like Doom on Speed Metal or Doomspeed or Speeddoom, just as you like. Man,I'm really getting crazy, don't I ?
Best idea is you purchase this CD (CD-R with sticker) and get your own picture. Sound files are available via  http://cdbaby.com/cd/matthiassteele  contakt: matthiassteele1@aol.com (Nino Trovato)

RonJacMetal

Translation: Peter Schulien

 

The American Power/Thrasher MANIFEST DESTINY hailing from Stillwater, Oklahoma haven't been very fortunate in their long-lasting career yet. Former vocalist Steve Bryant who can be heard on their debut album "All Life,All Minds" had been killed in a tragic car accident in 1996. Only one year later though they were back on track with their new frontman Russ Pace. Later on they released their third album "Within" finally released in Germany as well this year by Rock It Up Records. Unfortunately, the band split up shortly after the release. In 2005 they dared to re-group and worked on new material. On May 1st 2007 the band got heavily hit by fate again for guitarist and band mainman Brent Wheatley died of cancer. But the band couldn't be stopped by all these tragic occurrences and thus released the already recorded EP "Your World Has Died" in memory of their bandleader's will. And they aren't willing to stop. Hey guys, that's very good for the songs you have penned here definitely are the best I have heard from you yet. Old School Thrash meets PANTERA with a much more powerful and transparent production than in the past.
But now to the single tracks: The opener "Time Of Light" haunts you with a killer riff while the following title track is a murderous Mid Tempo Headbanger. The third track's "Take The Next Step" guitar riffing strongly reminds me of MELIAH RAGE at their best whereas the almost doomy and slightly SLAYEResque "The One" gives the audience a little rest. "Bury The Living" simply rocks before the album is closed by "Outcry 07", a rerecorded version of one of the best tracks of their 1996 debut.
All in all a really brilliant but unfortunately much too short CD. If someone out there should have good connections to God above please pray for them for these guys surely have suffered enough. All others grab their purses and support this cool outfit !! If you're interested get in contact with Rock It Up Records: www.rockitup.org.

Holger

Translation: Peter Schulien

 

SHANNON hail from the sunny France and play melodic Hard Rock with a slight AOR edge mixed with a good dose of KROKUS and a bit of RHINO BUCKET. The result of this mixture is a well-done EP making hungry for more stuff. The comparisons to other bands drawn above are mostly due to vocalist Olivier Del Valle's perfect and most of all powerful Rock'N'Roll voice. He definitely dominates the scene although the guitars play a main part as well. Harder than JOURNEY or SKAGARACK but softer than EVIDENCE ONE. This is how you should imagine the band's sound. Check it out by all means and get in contact with them. www.myspace.com/shannonbandrock.

Holger

Translation: Peter Schulien

 

A band calling themselves after a Viking longship already have won my liking. These ships were built to frighten the enemies and make them gie up without a fight. End of this lesson in history. Despite their name DRAGONSHIP though don't play Viking or Pagan Metal but pure Heavy Metal in the vein of LIEGE LORD. The title track "Set The Sails" is a real killer with enormous power and a brilliant guitar solo whereas "Predestined Fatality" also could have been penned by TWISTED TOWER DIRE. All in all this 4 Track Demo is really good. Unfortunately, it is only a professionall packaged CD-R (but that's okay for a demo). It is high time for these guys to record a full-length album !! Homepage: www.dragonship.org

Holger

Translation: Peter Schulien

 

This young talented group from Ohio, USA (Keyboarder Spencer Philips is only 15 years old but already knows how to play his instrument masterly) delivers Epic Power Metal of highest quality on an extraordinary technical level. This debut album is mainly founded on the crushing down-to-earth guitar sound of the brothers Jason Vanek who also contributes the vocals and lead guitarist Shaun Vanek who among others also wields the axe for the brilliant WRETCH and who literally takes apart his six-string from time to time (if you have been to the Headbangers Open Air this year you know what I mean...). Bassist Josh Gatka and the great drummer Steve Dukuslow complete the deep impression these complex Power songs leave on the listener. It's hard to point out single highlights but "Realm Of Wind And Ice" and "Metal Anvil" are two tracks you should check out by all means.
If you can imagine a mixture of SYMPHONY X and EYEFEAR with a slight dose of old DREAM THEATER this one's a Must for you, a gem for every demanding Metalhead. And I guess we all hopefully have a good sense of taste,  don't we? Check out the band's homepage www.LegacyMetal.com and be convinced by this tempest of steel on www.myspace.com/officialeternallegacy.

IronIngo

Translation: Peter Schulien

 

LICH KING hail from Massachusetts/USA and seamlessly fit into the row of new Retro-Thrash bands like FUELED BY FIRE and MERCILESS DEATH. In comparison to those other bands they are even more aggressive though. The vocalist bearing the weird pseudonym "A Fucking Tyrannosaur" shouts in best Hardcore manner. The other band members call themselves "The Hulk", "Darth Vader" and "Rambo". It doesn't really matter how these guys call themselves for they screw off your head and puke into your opened throat. That's just the way super heroes do it. EXODUS and SLAYER once again are the godfathers of the band's razor-sharp killer riffs. If your pair of trousers shouldn't get open and if you shouldn't bang your head to songs like "Mascot War" or "Thrashsacre" you are either dead or DJ ÖTZI fanatic. The top of the cream is the closing track of this CD, a well-done cover version of the EXODUS classic "Another Lesson In Violence". This album shall be still released in August, so watch out and keep yourself informed via www.myspace.com/lichkingband. Anyway, I myself fall onto my knees due to this load of Old School quotations and shout out loud: HAIL TO THE LICH KING !!!

Holger

Translation: Peter Schulien

 

for older entries look at the CD ARCHIV !

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