2009
In recnet years there is always been at least one release of real solid no-frills kind of classic metal. Here we are closing in on the end of 2009 and there hadn't been an album of that style that really stuck with me so far this year. That was until very recently when this release from Steel Assassin came out. I can't exactly call it an all new release as most of it is made up of re-recorded version of demo tracks that were originally done in 1984 and 1985. However it's new to me and probably new to a number of other listeners. Even though much of it was written 24-25 years ago it still comes across as being fresh today. The only new entry is the final track "Breakout At St. Lo" that the band says is a preview of the upcoming album entitled "Metal of Honor." The influences are scattered and include Armored Saint, Iron Maiden, Jag Panzer, early Helstar and Judas Priest. Steel Assassin's sound is founded on a killer duel guitar attack that is based on heavy rhythms and stellar harmonies. The vocals are forceful and cutting. The rhythm section bashes away leading the drive. Every song is easy to like even the first time around. Then they just get even more enjoyable with each additional play. These guys play the kind of fist pumping metal that gets the blood flowing. Their reason for re-recording the songs is likely so they could showcase the vocals of their current singer and sharpen up these oldies, but goodies. Mission accomplished on that last point for sure. This album shows that this band has the chops to still get it done and it wets my appetitie for the next chapter in Steel Assassin's career which will hopefully be released soon.
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