This mini-album compilation came out in 1987 and features some decent early 80's metal. Wait, 1987 wasn't the early 80's. True, but someone didn't tell the six bands on this album that because even though thrash, early death metal, prog-metal, power metal and other styles were going on elsewhere in 1987 the bands on this album were still playing NWOBHM inspired material. Not that this is a bad thing because what matters is it was good. Let's see what we got here. Deuce from UK are up first with "Power of the realm". It's a mid-paced song that reminds me some of Spartan Warrior only leaning a little more towards a hard rock side. American band Crisis come on next with "Keep fighting". The mix is a little low on this one and you would swear this was done around 1981, but I love the spirit of this song. I imagine these guys were powerful live. The UK's First Offence come up next with "Into the night" which has kind of an early Saxon vibe to it. Good vocals and some strong rhythms help this to be pretty good. Trojan from Ireland contribute "Back to me". This one comes on with a solid riff and some thick vocals. Iy certainly has a strong NWOBHM influence. You have heard this style before, but they make it worthwhile as well. Germany's Not Fragile give us "Cheltenham". Okay this song is all over the place, but in a good way. They begin slow go through multiple pace changes in this seven minute plus track. Probably my favorite song on this album. Closing out the album are Ezymeat from Ireland. Their song is "Massacre" and it's along a similar style as the other songs on this album. The solos and guitars in general are likable, but it's a bit more repetitive than I would have liked. Despite all six bands being five or so years behind the times even then, this is still an album worth giving listen to.
Great comp. Mark.
ReplyDeleteI enjoyed it. Forgot to mention that Ezymeat is one of the worst band names I have ever heard. At least their music was good.
ReplyDeleteEZYmeat have such a stupid name, but at least your right about their music. I forgot to tell you (speaking of all things nwobhm my brother)that I finally scored a copy of the NWOBHM Encyclopedia. I have been wanting this for years, but it went out of print twice! It is the be all end all book on the movement/bands with page after page of incredible detail! Any band that put out at least one 7' is in here! Crazy. It will certainly help me out with NWOBHM Wednesday.
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