Lyzzard-Savage

Fighter
2017

When I'm deciding what to review some times it's a band I've heard of or a label I know that has done a number of good releases. In this case I see the cover art looks like a 1980's t-shirt design and the band has a reptile name so I know that I have to check it out. Lyzzard hail from Portugual and before spinning this one I figured it was going to transport me back about three decades or more. The results? Yes, indeed this is very much mid to late 80's style metal. Much of the music reminds me of Running Wild before they were full blown pirates and Grave Digger before they got all semi-historical and perhaps toss in a few pinches of Grim Reaper and Judas Priest guitars bursts. The music just keeps punching away with each track. I kept expecting one or two more mellow tracks, but that never came about. Instead the album seemed to pick up the intensity as it went along. The vocals are slightly high pitched, but clean and they certainly compliment the hard-driving music. A number of bands today that play 80's style traditional metal tend to fall into the trap having a number of songs that sound very much the same. It pleases me very much does not fall into that trap at all. In fact each song has it's own personality and for most of the songs the band sets each song apart the next rather early into each track. While anyone can sound a certain way, but what really matters in the excitement for what you and that's something that shines through on every track of this album. Lyzzard are excited about the music they have created and they should because this a very impressive album.

https://www.facebook.com/lyzzardofficial

Ice War-s/t

2017
Shadow Kingdom

This is a one man project and that one guy is Jo Capitalicide (formerly of Iron Dogs, Trioxin 245 and a number of other bands) as he handles vocals and all of the instruments. Ice War have previously done an EP and a few singles so this self-titled release marks the first full length effort from this Canadian band. Right away the opener Battle Zone sets the tone with some driving riffs that are throw back to a few decades ago in the early 80's when metal was raw and that was fine. A few more songs in and the galloping guitar style continues and the tempo changes are handled masterfully. A few songs remind me in parts or of a number of NWOBHM acts including Jaguar, Savage and yes, Dianno-era Iron Maiden. With only eight songs in my mind an album needs to really hit on almost all of them for it to be really good. This album does just that-it nails the heaviness, delivers catchy rhythms and as a whole the album even gets better as it goes along. There isn't a great deal of flash as is the case with a number of current acts who try focus on an older sound. However, it doesn't need that because the material that is here is so strongly crafted that fans on classic style metal are in for a real treat. If there is one problem it's just that the vocals while adequate for the most part there are moments where I wish had a little more range to elevate the songs even more. Hey, Mr. Capitalicide is already handling all of the other duties at a high level so it's hard to be great at everything. Really a powerful outing that has me hoping this one man act dispenses with the singles and gets into another full length effort soon.

Free Metal Monday: Knightmare-Wolves of Retribution

The Arcade Records
2016


Active since 2010 (and not to be confused with all of the other similarly-named bands out there!),  Knightmare is a up-and-coming U.S. heavy/power metal band with two full-length albums to it's name. The forty seven minutes long "Wolves of Retribution" is this group's latest recording and it came out in late January of this year. For this Raleigh, North Carolina-based four-piece band it is all about (gritty and true) classic heavy metal with catchy choruses, blazing-hot leads, and epic overtones! Amazingly enough available for free by clicking here, "Wolves of Retribution" showcases a hungry heavy metal outfit that seems destined for much more than just local success. This is one talented American metal band that I would keep a close eye out for!

Night Demon-Curse Of The Damned

Century Media Records
2015

"Curse Of the Damned" is the long-awaited debut album from Ventura, California's Night Demon. Following in the footsteps of the phenomenal Night Demon this recently-released full-length LP is also the soundtrack to the non-motion-picture graphic novel "Blood Sacrifice". At least that is what the booklet reports. "Soundtrack" or not this 47-minute plus CD (which I am listening to as we speak with the aptly-title anthem "Heavy Metal Heat" just killing it!) is an absolute stone cold-sensation from killer opener "Screams In The Night" (a rocket-fueled speed metal number that beautifully rips your head off!) through album closer (and "bonus track") "Road Racin'". Everything that there was to love about the group's independently-released 2012 EP "Night Demon" has been modified and amplified here on this 12-track CD with the wide-open range of influences sure to appeal to anyone and everyone claiming to be a heavy metal maniac! On Night Demon's first album (available on CD as well as LP friends!) lead vocalist/bassist Jarvis Leatherby channels a young Sean Harris (Diamond Head) while his bandmates (guitarist Brent Woodward and drummer Dustin Squires) help navigate "Curse Of The Damned" through wave after wave of N.W.O.B.H.M-inspired & influenced numbers with the likes of Iron Maiden, Saxon and Judas Priest resting comfortably next to bands such as Angel Witch, Satan, Jaguar, U.F.O., (early) Demon, Grim Reaper and the aforementioned Diamond Head! That said, it's not just the N.W.O.B.H.M. movement that gives this album such a bright glow as influences such as Dokken, Motörhead, Kiss, Riot, Black Sabbath, Metallica and even Budgie squirm their way into the mix making "Curse Of the Damned" a must-own! Naming just one or two fave numbers would be a near impossible task when it comes to a release like this one as there is really no dub to be had and whether we are talking about the title track (80's metal anyone?) or a number like "Save Me Now" (more magical 80's metal that features sort of spooky guest keyboards from one Owen Bucey) you simply can't go wrong! Heavy rock and roller "Satan" actually reminds me of the band Satan only with some (again early) Demon tossed in for good measure while "Full Speed Ahead" plays like a time-honored/"We're your biggest fans guys and we're not afraid to show it!" tribute to N.W.O.B.H.M. heroes Diamond Head! Yes, "Full Speed Ahead" does dip into the likes of Maiden and Priest, but it's Diamond Head all the same (as if there is anything wrong with that!). Black Sabbath is somewhat mirrored in the epic metal track "The Howling Man" and on "Run For Your Life" (a sweet as can be speed-rocker with fantastic gang vocals from Blade Killer members Jonathan Rubio and Carlos Gutierrez!) we're treated to some faint hints of what could just be "Kill Em All" days Metallica! And yet despite all of these influences a band like Night Demon sounds remarkably like no one other than Night Demon. All of these different influences simply blend together like the perfect after-dinner cocktail with the sweet taste of  "Mastermind", "Killer" and "Heavy Metal Heart" not once disguising the higher-than-average alcohol content of this "Drink it up lads as if there is no tomorrow!" intoxicating party-pleasure! There are no after-affects with this mix though! I mean other than the fact that you might find some of these songs stuck in your head even days later! Theirs is the sound of sincere, honest-to-goodness true/traditional heavy metal and just like 1999-era Lex Luger it is "The Total Package"! Catchy, hook-heavy and highly enjoyable/addictive heavy metal like this has few equals and just going by a memorable number like "Run For Your Life" this debut album has hit release written all over it! Anytime you come to the party this prepared you know that there is nowhere to go but up so predicting big things for the trio Night Demon isn't rocket science! No bones about it these guys will be huge soon enough so now is the best time to join in on the festivities! You can find these guys online at their Facebook page here
or at their official site here. As far as picking up a copy of "Curse Of the Damned" for yourself goes either check out their webpage or head to places like Amazon or Ebay. Rightly so this album is everywhere
so there is no good or justifiable reason why you shouldn't own a copy of this A+ masterpiece by weeks end!

Tysondog-Cry Havoc

Rocksector Records
2015

Friends, family and fellow followers of all things loud and proud (and flat out the almighty f**kin' power cord!) this LP before us is hand's down the most eagerly-awaited releases of 2015! Or at least it was for me! Let me explain. Back in May of 2012 I covered this N.W.O.B.H.M. band's EP, "Hammerhead 2012", and at the time I made the remark that I hoped it wouldn't be too long before we would see a new full-length release from these Newcastle heavy metal merchants. Needless to say, "Cry Havoc" is long-overdue! Where have you been hiding Tysondog? Why the long wait? What took so long between then and now? I do have to wonder. The thing is that's neither here nor there. "Cry Havoc" is finally here and therefore we move on to the bigger question of the day. Was "Cry Havoc" worth the extra long wait? Is it everything that a long-time N.W.O.B.H.M. fanatic/Tysondog fan could ask for? For this N.W.O.B.H.M. fan/collector the answer is short and sweet. Yes! Yes, "Cry Havoc" is everything I could have hoped for and yes, even more! From the material to the overall production everything is just so right about Tysondog's latest. So much so in fact that it's almost hard to believe that this band goes all the way back to the early eighties and yet sounds this INVIGORATING and overall INTENSE! Credit that to the production job if you must seeing as it was handled by the one and only Jeff "Mantas" Dunn (founding member of Venom of course, but also with Mantas and Mpire of Evil!). Or at least it starts there as "Cry Havoc" feels like a release that Mantas would have his hands all over! And that my friends is a damn fine thing as Mantas is HUGE when it comes to REAL metal! Working with the material at hand (which is beyond heavy as it hammers away at your eardrums from the word go!) Mantas took what Tysondog had (strong as steel material!!!) and presented it in such a perfect way! Everything from John "Clutch" Carruthers's commanding lead vocals to the fabulous (read: shredtastic!) solos of new lead guitarist Steve Morrison (Judas Rising) is spot on and from the moment this one opens with the heavier than hell title cut it's all over! You are hooked from the start and treated to a very rare kind of album where traditional heavy metal, N.W.O.B.H.M., speed metal and even Motörhead-inspired heavy rock all combine in absolute perfect harmony! With Kev Wynn (bass), Paul Burdis (lead guitar) and Phil Brewis (drums) rounding out this mad pack of dogs things get nice and hot the move this long player moves along! With their N.W.O.B.H.M. roots still firmly in tack the band is never shy about branching out into new areas of hard rock and heavy metal as "Cry Havoc" showcases a seemingly reborn band infused with additional elements/influences such as AC/DC, Soundgarden (or really the very early days of Soundgarden when they were still heavily into all things post-Black Sabbath!), the aforementioned Motörhead and even early (solo) Rob Zombie/White Zombie! Lest you think that Tysondog is simply trying to appeal to modern day tastes pretty much everything about this five-piece band comes as as sincere, real and downright-honest with "Cry Havoc" sounding as close to classic metal as you can get! If you take anything away from this new release (other than how remarkable it is that they sound stunningly fresh!) it should be how Metal the album is compared to what's on the market these days! Pound for pound this LP is is as Metal as it gets which only helps to reaffirm the fact that there has never been a better time to be a N.W.O.B.H.M. fanatic then now! Due to drop on on April 20, 2015, "Cry Havoc" is yet another great release from a record label that is also home to such great N.W.O.B.H.M. bands as Avenger, Tygers Of Pan Tang and Quartz. "Cry Havoc" includes 12 brand new songs with not a dub to be found amongst the lot! You can actually hear one of this LP's cooler tracks, "Shadow of the Beast" (which features some prominent bass playing by Kev Wynn!) right here:https://soundcloud.com/rocksector/tysondog-shadow-of-the-beast although like I said there really isn't a bad song to be had here! "Cry Havoc" opens with the grueling punishment that is the title cut and from there it just heavy hitter after heavy hitter with solid tracks such as "The Needle",  "Parasite" and "Nemesis" leaving little room for doubt as far as the integrity and intensity if 2015-era Tysondog! Doom metal fans should enjoy "Into The Void" as it has tasty classic metal licks sandwiched in-between vocals that out Ozzy even the Ozz man himself while "Playing with Fire" takes the harsher side of Judas Priest and gives it a heavy dose of heavy rock and roll! Speaking of the harsher things in life (or at least when it comes to the boiling hot "Cry Havoc"!) there is the number "Relentless" which could be seen as the missing link between old Tysondog and Pantera!  And that's just a sampling of what's in store with "Cry Havoc"! The album, which is available for pre-order now as a special CD Fanpack direct from Rocksector Records at www.rocksector.com, is really the next evolutionary step for a band early releases balanced hard rock and heavy metal/speed metal so perfectly. It's N.W.O.B.H.M. after getting a face lift and a shot of adrenalin and at the end of the day it's simply an album that I can't help but ramble on and on about! "Cry Havoc" is not only a essential pick-up for fans of Tysondog, but it's a mandatory must-buy for those who still claim to love tried and true heavy metal and everything that it represents!

Review of Tysondog's "Hammerhead 2012":
http://metalmark.blogspot.com/2012/05/tysondog-hammerhead-2012.html

Trial-Vessel

High Roller Records
2015

Featuring two guitarists with ties to Enslaved (Alexander Ellström & Andreas Johnsson) as well as two former members of Abscess Plague in bassist Andréas Olsson and drummer Martin Svensson, with former Immersion front-man Linus Johansson serving as the last missing piece of this latest & greatest Swedish sensation(!), Trial are a five-piece act which is hellbent on reviving the classics. And by "the classics" this time around we mean the sounds of  "Iron Maiden, mid-period Mercyful Fate" along "with a bit of Omen thrown in for good measure". All off that in red bold there is per the promo although color me rather impressed as this time around that's a solid enough tag line to go if one had to sum this lot up ever so briefly. That said, let's expand the picture a wee bit and see what comes into focus shall we? OK then. With a demo release entitled "Demo 2010" (released on the record label The Coffins Slave in 2010 obviously!), one additional full-length album (2011's "The Primordial Temple" which was also released on The Coffins Slave) and two 7" singles to their name (one was titled "Malicious Arts" and it came out on Nuclear Winter Records in 2013 while "Where Man Becomes All" was released last year on High Roller Records) this new album should help Trial stick out somewhat from the pack. And well (frankly speaking and all) we could actually start with the whole "Swedish death metal maniacs form much better secondary heavy metal project" pack and then move on from there as that sums up at least one aspect of the band Trial! Yes, everyone here comes from a death metal background and all, but times change as do people so thanks to the collective efforts of all involved (and whats obviously a love for old school Swedish metal, N.W.O.B.H.M. and U.S.P.M.) we end up with a sophomore release that hits way more high notes than sour ones! On the band’s first full-length album for High Roller Records it's not only all of that jazz posted above in red (Iron Maiden, etc.), but there's some Satan influences to be had as well some Hell and even some Candlemass. OK, a lot of Candlemass. That isn't necessarily a bad thing as it meshes wonderfully well with those other influences especially the Mercyful Fate part. And at the end of the day Trial is more or less striving to do there own thing while paying homage to some old time greats so things generally point more towards originality as apposed to simply serving as the latest copycat band to ride the retro-obsessed train of rock! With plenty of fans and critics alike already hailing Trial as the likely successors to the likes of Portait, In Solitude, RAM and Screamer the sky sure looks as if it is the limit for these Swedish purveyors of all things old school. My best bet would be that full-length album number three for Trail will be the real kicker and (assuming they further forge their own distinct flavor of traditional metal/power metal/doom and tighten everything down) that will be the release that makes everyone stand up and take notice of this talented band.

On Top-Top to Bottom

HPGD Productions
2014

It has been three long years since we last heard from Philadelphia’s hard & heavy/classic heavy metal/N.W.O.B.H.M.-inspired rockers On Top. That is far too long to have to wait in-between releases (three years too long!) if you ask me as On Top's debut-album, "Top Heavy", was absolutely killer! With nods to everyone from Accept and Saxon to Malice and Metallica it was one of those LPs* which you just couldn't get enough of! You can read my review of it below, but for now let's tackle this short (as in only four songs!) EP and ask the questions that should be on everyone's mind in regards to power trio On Top. Those would be "Where have you been all this time?" and "Why, after all these years away from a scene that really could have used your honest to goodness, real rock and roll mentality, do we get only FOUR freakin' tracks from you!". That first question could be answered by the fact that this seems to be a part-time project. Lead vocalist/bassist Jaron Gulino (who sounds like Rage Against The Machine's Zack de la Rocha (if Zack had been influenced more by the likes of Bon Scott, Lemmy, Ozzy, etc.) going through a sleazy street metal phase) does spend time in Mach22 (who have also graced these pages in the past year) and drummer Danny Piselli is also in Fisthammer whose new release, "Infallible", I just covered last week! So yes, those two members do find their time limited I suspect. Still, here is one of those occasions where I wish their part-time project was actually their full-time project as I thoroughly enjoy it and find it WAY more interesting then what they are doing otherwise! Here on "Top to Bottom" (due to be released on June 3rd) the pair is joined by newcomer Brian Davis on lead guitar and, other then the short length of this one, there isn't one thing to complain about! Even with a new guitarist in place it's the same On Top that thrilled on "Top Heavy". Again the band draws from the likes of Accept, Saxon, Malice and even (if to a slightly less extent) Metallica along with sleaze/hard rock influences (early Mötley Crüe, Ratt, Dokken, AC/DC, Kiss, W.A.S.P., Ozzy etc.) and some other more metallic reference points (Judas Priest, Motörhead, Black Sabbath). Only this time around the band looks to knock off the more obvious sources of inspirations and, by focusing on their strengths and encouraging each other to write more original compositions, On Top has returned with an EP that sounds less like the competition and more like, well, On Top. And it bloody well works! Whether it's the EP's stellar production**, the transfusion of new blood (Brian Davis is a skilled guitarist who lead solos have a real classic hard rock niche about them!) or the realization on the part of Jaron Gulino and Danny Piselli that they can rock out to their own beat there is just something about "Top to Bottom" that just screams out "Top Heavy is here!". If only that scream would be followed by more good music and less years sat waiting around for Top Heavy to answer it's true calling: to conquer a scene in desperate need of real, hard-edge heavy rock/traditional metal! Let's all hope then that Top Heavy heads that call! For now though you can pre-order the digital download of "Top to Bottom" right here: http://hpgd.bandcamp.com/album/top-to-bottom  for only $4.44 or, better yet, you can pre-order "Top to Bottom" on CD for only $8 (includes free shipping) right here:  http://www.horrorpaingoredeath.com/store/hpgd087.html   And, if want to find out more about these Philadelphia rockers (and why wouldn't you?), then head over to their Facebook page right below!

www.facebook.com/ontoprocks 

 *No, it wasn't actually released on LP. However (and this is a HUGE however!!!!!) it had one of those classic metal vibes and it bore all the hallmarks of great hard rock, heavy metal and speed metal/thrash metal LPs of old (or the eighties if you will!). "Top Heavy" could have easily been issued on vinyl and it would have sounded like a match made in heaven!

** "Top To Bottom" was recorded at Tribe Sound Studios in West Chester, PA, engineered/mixed by Brian Davis and mastered by Chris “The Wizard” Collier (KXM, Lynch Mob)

Review of the smashing "Top Heavy":
http://metalmark.blogspot.com/2012/01/on-top-top-heavy.html

The Deep-Demo 2013

Self-Release/Independent
2013


Now, this is what you call a pleasant surprise! Anytime a N.W.O.B.H.M. band drops you a message asking it you would be willing to review their material is cause for celebration in my household! Sure, it might just be me celebrating but it's a celebration nonetheless! So, with that said what exactly are we looking at with London's The Deep? Well, if the name causes a light-bulb to go off in your head even a little bit or you have one of those "Hey now!" moments then you're not alone. Upon catching the name I was immediately thinking Deep Machine and for good reasons! For you see The Deep features three members from the1982 line up of Deep Machine. Actually, The Deep features various members with ties to a TON of sweet hard rock, heavy metal and N.W.O.B.H.M. acts including Rogue Male, Angel Witch, Vardis, Ocean and Airrace! Just who are we talking about then? Well, on lead vocals you have the one and only Tony Coldham (Ex-Minas Tirith, Deep Machine, Ocean, Strutt, Airrace, The Rodford Files, GMD). That right there is pretty kick ass and damn straight he sounds FANTASTIC on the mic! Backing him up are guitarists Paul W. Smith (Ex-Janine, Deep Machine, Strutt, Shattered Hearts, Bug-eyed Starfish, The Rodford Files, GMD) & Mick Feleppa (Ex-Great British Heroes, Havoc, Ash, Strutt), bass guitarist Don Whiberley (Ex-Equinox) and drummer Steve Kingsley (Ex-Omega, Deep Machine, Rogue Male, Vardis). If you're looking at that list of who's who and saying to yourself "There is no way that The Deep could possibly sound anywhere as cool as that line-up would imply" then let me tell you something-you'd be dead wrong! This 4-track demo is as good as it gets! Classic heavy metal/N.W.O.B.H.M. that is EVERY bit as good as the latest works from Angel Witch, Satan, Blitzkrieg, Battleaxe (review coming soon), Saxon, Tank and yes, Deep Machine! In fact this band could be looked at as being in the same boat as Deep Machine, but that wouldn't quite be fair to these five fine gentlemen as they bring their own flavors to the tasting party and trust me, this is one party that you want to find yourself on the invite list to! Of the demo's four tracks I'm most drawn to "The Rider", but this is one of those recordings where you could randomly hit play on any cut and the result would be the same-top of the line, heavy metal that AWAKENS the fire within! Band's like The Deep are the reason why I'm a fan first and a writer second! Great songs that are catchy, memorable and downright epic making you proud to be a metalhead and enthused to wave the banner for all to see! The downside of this one is obvious. It's far too short. Just when you're truly revved up and ready to go the brakes are slammed on you! The Deep need a full-length album with plenty of room to stretch their legs and  run! Hopefully somebody/some label will snag this lot up seeing as classic heavy metal like this is like life's blood. It's an essential like bread and water, the air we breath and love! There's no need to say more. Just seek these five out and support their endeavors! Let the world know that true heavy metal is always in vogue and always appreciated! And above all else honor them, as a band and as brothers in arms fighting the good fight for all things "loud and proud"!!!!

https://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Deep/338137486254208 

The Oath-The Oath

Rise Above Records
2014

Further proving that there is no shortage of top tier female fronted heavy metal bands out there these days (not that there was any doubt whatsoever in my mind!) let me introduce you to Berlin, Germany's The Oath. Although relatively new to the scene (having "just" formed back in 2012) the group has already released a well-received single (2013's "Night Child/Black Rainbow"-both of which appear on "The Oath") and now have delivered this impressive full-length debut. Already released in Europe, with an April 15th due date schedule for those of us on the other side of the pond, "The Oath" finds core members Johanna Sadonis (vocals, formerly a member of Dies Ater, Cryogenic, Ferox, Informer and Vinterkrig) and Linnéa Olsson (guitars, formerly of Slingblade and currently with Sonic Ritual) exploring all the various sub genres of "heavy metal" (doom, traditional heavy metal, 70's hard rock/heavy metal and N.W.O.B.H.M.) while drawing from their vast array of influences (listed sources include Danzig, Black Sabbath, The Runaways, Dio, Celtic Frost and Motörhead) in order to craft a strong and downright enjoyable platter of "loud & proud" goodness! Linnéa Olsson, reportedly a "punk guitarist at heart" whose influences range from "Slash to Fast Eddie Clarke to Steve Jones to Rick Wartell and Bruce Franklin" (I'd throw in Tony Iommi as well) often times provides the album with early N.W.O.B.H.M. riffs (think Angle Witch, Iron Maiden, Satan and Hammer) while elements of Black Sabbath, Pentagram and Trouble creep into the picture at just the right moment to give "The Oath" a delightfully dark vibe! Meanwhile Johanna Sadonis voice has a haunting quality to it which, at various moments when the mood is just right, reminds this reviewer of the band Coven!  With bassist Simon Bouteloup (Kadavar, ex- Aqua Nebula Oscillator) and drummer Andrew Prestidge (Angel Witch, Winters) serving as the formidable rhythm section The Oath, which channels all manor of darkness and despair with their occult-themed music, also banked on the services of  In Solitude's Henke Palm (also of Sonic Ritual with guitarist Linnéa Olsson). Henke provides a guest solo on "The Oath" and his time spent playing with In Solitude seems to have rubbed of on the members of The Oath as that is also one source of comparison. With a warm production thanks to one Martin "Konie" Ehrencron (Sister) and an epic number such as the seven minute plus "Psalm 7" closing this one out in grand fashion "The Oath" is a must-have for fans of female fronted heavy metal as well as those that simply adore dark and brooding doom metal and/or late 70's/early 80's-infused traditional heavy metal!

French Metal Friday: Existance-Steel Alive

Mausoleum Records
2014 

It's been awhile, but French metal band Existance are finally releasing their long-awaited and highly-anticipated debut album. The last time we checked in with this young act (which incidentally features  vocalist/guitarist Julian Izard who, as the son of H-Bomb's Didier Izard, has heavy metal flowing through his veins!) was w-a-y back in 2012. At that time the band, which was formed back in 2008 and whose sound could just as easily be compared to N.W.O.B.H.M greats of old (Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, Blitzkrieg, Saxon, Demon, etc) as classic French heavy acts up to and including H-Bomb(!), had recently seen their 2011, self-released and self-titled, demo re-released by High Roller Records and many of us thought that these young French metalheads (which now features the additional line-up of guitarist Antoine Poiret, bass guitarist Thomas Drouin and drummer Alexandre Revillon) would soon enough be making a real name for themselves and tearing apart the scene!!! So, when their full-length debut album didn't materialize right away something just didn't sit right with fans and supporters (of which I'd like to count myself as being both!) alike and we were left scratching our heads as to how and why this band wasn't under the bright lights and on every one's lips and minds! Whatever the reason for the delay though the wait sure as hell was well worth it as the aptly-titled "Steel Alive" (Get it?) simply slays the dragon my friends! This 11-track MONSTER of a METAL release was recorded and mixed at Boss Hog Studios in Ham en Artois, France with Maor Appelbaum (Anvil, Dokken, Halford, Malmsteen, Sepultura) handling the mastering job.Production-wise it's spot on and music-wise? Starting with "Legends Never Die" (a number that slowly works it's way forward before going full-force into power metal, via Iron Maiden and Judas Priest, territory!) the band takes up the challenge of representing a scene that gave us legends like Trust, Nightmare, Vulcain, Warning, ADX and of course H-Bomb! As the album moves forward (and Julian Izard proves he's just as strong of a vocalist as his father!) it's a remarkable accomplishment, but it seems to grows stronger with good numbers like"Black Viper" and "The Siren" giving way to ABSOLUTE crushing riff-rockers like "Dead Or Alive" (which is simply wicked with it's phenomenal lead guitar work!), "Slaughter" and "Burning Angel". That's not to say that opener "Legends Never Die" is anything other then top-of-the-line heavy metal as it does more then just get the job done! It's a solid way to start off a release that (from the start to when the creepy "From Hell" wraps things up in style!) is both a homage to classic heavy metal and a statement that here are still (younger) acts out there that will gladly wave the banner of all things "loud & proud" like this talented four-piece! But, onward we should match and the track "Burning Angel", while (only slightly) a bit slower and more melodic, shows off the band's maturity as songwriters while the title cut is simply top-notch epic metal! Then there is the track "Get Away". With it's nice and heavy back-drop (thanks in no small to the skill-level of bass guitarist Thomas Drouin and drummer Alexandre Revillon!) "Get Away" is old-school, hard & heavy magic, made with love and appreciation from a band that has greatness well-within it's reach! "Prisoner" is more Iron Maiden-inspired power metal (nothing wrong with that folks!) and with the speed metal great "Close to the End" and "From Hell" (a bit Blitzkrieg-like all around) wrapping things up rather nicely "Steel Alive" (again, clever title and one that I just love!) proves to a great debut-album for this French act and a release that should fill the gap in your collection rather nicely if your a fan of all things classic heavy metal and N.W.O.B.H.M.! Find out more about this talent-laden French lot at their Facebook page below and you can read my review of their (sweet ass) self-titled release right here:http://metalmark.blogspot.com/2012/03/existance-existance.html

https://www.facebook.com/existanceband

Carried By Six-Carried By Six

Self-release/Independent
2014

Technically spelled out as "Carriedbysix", with this (long time coming) self-titled, full-length release serving as a proper introduction for this five-piece modern metal collective, Ohio's next big thing was first presented to me last weekend by lead vocalist Nick Pecone (also of soon to be reviewed Purveyors Of Fiction). Since then I've been looping this nine-track recording over and over again in my (metal) mind and (metal) heart! First formed many moons ago as a basement project (the best kind of bands!) Carriedbysix debut output* was recorded in different locations over the course of a year and was mixed by Jeff Dunne (Daylight Dies, Cephalic Carnage, Emmure). Alongside seasoned-musician/versatile lead vocalist Nick Pecone (Burns To The Soul, Purveyors Of Fiction, ex-Uptight Sugar, ex-Autumn Awaits, ex-Diablo Mojo, ex-The Bentreys,   ex-The Decoys and ex-Vrede Hemel), who incidentally proved to be the missing piece to the puzzle/answer to the age old question of "Who can properly convey the appropriate amount of emotion depth needed to take us to the next level?", the band features numerous musicians with ties to some of Ohio's more well-known local bands. Both Donald Spak (guitar) and Alex Hamrick (drums) were members of metalcore outfit Amentia (which can be heard, roots-wise, in cuts like "White Out Tide" and "Pillars") while bassist Mike Bakos and guitarist Garrett Andrews previously played in The Burning Dawn. Meanwhile Carriedbysix's potent rhythm once played together in Lie so there's also that connection. With so many metallic veterans assembled in one place one can't help but assume that everything would work out nicely. The thing is no one (or at least not me!) could have reasonably predicted just how well this outfit would gel and how righteous the group's self-titled album would sound! While this Cleveland lot generally fall under the umbrella of all that is "modern metal" in actuality the group combs through the best parts of classic heavy metal and thrash (technical), progressive metal, epic metal and (even if it's just a smidgen of it) melodic death metal and, thanks to Nick's previous experience with punk and alternative outfits, magically glues everything together into a modern work of art! That might sound as if I'm overselling a local act like Carriedbysix, but until you hear this bunch for yourselves there is no way in which you could completely convey how well a melodic number like the soulful "Somium" works next to a stunning cut like "Poison Blue"! Mixing together harmony and heavy metal doesn't exactly result in a new flavor obviously. Still, few acts pull it off so effortlessly like these Ohio natives. Technically sound (some of these leads could have come straight from "Master Of Puppets"!) and insanely tight in their execution, with heavy thrashers like the killer "Whom Gods Destroy" and the short and sweet (and downright gritty!) "Guilty" providing further proof of this five-piece's ability to rage out while still keeping it all in check, Carriedbysix are exactly how modern day metal bands should function. By bringing different elements into the equation and providing the listener with exciting music that sounds natural and fluid (and is filled with crazy good hooks to boot!) Carriedbysix are yet another example of how amazing the Ohio metal scene has become! You can preview and purchase this one for yourself at the link below and (unless I am mistaken which wouldn't be the first time and most certainly won't be the last time friends!) pick up physical copies sometime in May!


http://carriedbysixcle.bandcamp.com/

*The band also released a demo at one point, but for all intensive purposes this finely-recorded and well-crafted full-length album is the band's proper debut!

Gypsy Chief Goliath-New Machines of the Night

Pitch Black Records

2013

 

Faithful readers (all dozen or so of you) might recall that I just covered these guys back in August of this year. Their "Black Samurai" single grabbed hold of my inner groove thing and shook it about like a hungry dog attacking a juicy steak! That sweet soul sister of a single might have been a tad old, which you can read all about at the link below (should you desire), but it sounded fresh and amazing to my ears. It caused me to look for further material that I might have missed and I stumbled upon another one of their tracks on the compilation "Axis Of The Underground Vol.2 Compilation Album". The song on that comp. was "St. Covens Tavern" and it's included on this, the band's second studio album. Of course you can also find that single on Youtube and the compilation might very well still be floating around online as a digital download. But, why mess with all of that when you could just get the song with the new album? And yes, it is another cool slab of stone cold grooves from this Canadian bunch! How so? Well, the band is lead by vocalist/guitarist Al the Yeti Bones (The Mighty Nimbus, Georgian Skull and Mister Bones) and features not only a three guitar attack, but also rustic harmonica playing courtesy of Brodie Stevenson! Brodie gives the band a different, more blues-based, vibe then the bulk of stoner rock bands who can be seen and heard traveling up and down the dusty back-roads of America. Want more information though about what these guys roll out? Imagine this one folks: On a small dirt road somewhere in the middle of anywhere/nowhere U.S.A. classic rock and classic heavy metal converge at a three way stop with Black Sabbath. After exchanging some pleasantries and sharing a pint or two at the only bar for miles and miles the three set off  some mysterious destination. At the end of their strange and bewildering trip they are confronted by the ghost of Phil Lynott who tells them, or rather commands them!, to morph their talents into the gnarliest rock band ever! Before leaving though Phil posses each and every member of this new super trooper act so that no groove will be left uncovered at the next part of their journey. That my friends and fiends is what Gypsy Chief Goliath (GCG) cooks up on their new album! And what's a main dish like that without some tasty side dishes? One of those tasty side dishes is the previously mention three guitars aspect of GCG. As these guys rock hard it helps matters that they are blessed with the skills of guitarists Dave Ljubanovich and Sean Hamilton. Three guitars makes for three times the fun. But, what happens when you also add Sean De Faria and Adam Saitti (bass and drums respectively) into the equation? The answer is simple folks. You end up with a must-own (and most certainly must-blast) collection of blues-based, rocking good times, stoner tunes that take everything you thought you knew about real, cold sweat and colder beer, rock and roll and gives it a much needed face lift! Rarely has stoner rock and roll ever sounded so alive and ready for the world as it does on "New Machines of the Night"!

 

http://metalmark.blogspot.com/search?q=Gypsy+Chief+Goliath-Black+Samurai-Single+ 

Joe Stump-Revenge of the Shredlord

Lion Music Finland
2013

With the full-knowledge that shred guitar fans will be doing a facepalm, and perhaps a well-deserved one at that, I have to admit that up until this album landed in my inbox I had no idea who Joe Stump was. Feel free to mock me to your hearts content, but even if I am starting to enjoy shred guitar more and more I'm just not that familiar with all the names in the game. While that could be looked at as a gross oversight on my part I will say that, as it was my very first time ever hearing the man play, I went into this one with no preconceived  notions that could have tainted my review. Sure, I do feel kind of stupid about it as this is his tenth solo release! Where have I been hiding out then? Here's the thing though. In addition to being a well-known and highly-respected solo guitarist ( Joe was named one of the 10 fastest shredders of all time by Guitar One as well as one of the 50 fastest players of all time by Guitar World magazine and one of the top 20 shredders of all time by Guitarist magazine!) he has played in The Reign Of Terror, Obsession, HolyHell, Raven Lord, Shooting Hemlock and way more bands/projects then could reasonably be mentioned here! So yes, there is no way that I shouldn't have heard of Joe Stump and his epic style of guitar playing. And yet here we are. Of course that does beg the question then as to what I thought about solo-album number ten from Joe. I've been on record in the past as saying that I didn't grow up loving shred guitarists and the neo-classical sort. In my high school days I found them terribly tiring. Yngwie fans will moan and groan, but I found him the worst kind of all. Before I go off into a tangent about Yngwie though (and trust me I could as the guy is beyond dull to these ears) let's talk about what I love about "Revenge of the Shredlord". In a very real way Joe plays music with meaning. It's not just a showcase for Joe's amazing skills as a guitarist, which is not in doubt at all, but rather "Revenge of the Shredlord" comes across as real heavy metal as played by a real band. In other words it's not just Joe standing online doing his thing and his thing only. Rather this album, despite being a "solo" release, sounds more like a band project from a really cool outfit. Musically this release is said to be heavier and more intense then his previous recordings. As it's my first time hearing Joe and his band-mates I'll just have to take their word on that one. I will however vouch for the fact that this release is heavy and intense! It's also a bit dark (which again is something the promo says is new) around the edges, but it's not one of those doom and gloom affairs. If anything you could simply look at this album as if it is a heavy rocker from an instrumental speed/U.S. power metal band. And speaking of band, on album number ten Joe is aided by bass player Jay Rigney (HolyHell and more), keyboardist Rock Jetstream (I'm assuming that's his Christian name!) and drummer Héctor "Blaster" Jaramillo (Kaala). Additionally Francisco Palomo (HolyHell) helps out on keyboards and together all of these musicians have created a album that sounds fantastic! Joe Stump's guitar solos are obviously insane, but there's real emotion behind the music and if you were to add a lead vocalist to this mix you'd be hard pressed to consider this simply "shred guitar"! Given that I had a blast listening to Joe Stump's "Revenge of the Shredlord" as it focuses on the overall picture not just crazy guitar solos that sacrifice substance for supposed "skill". I'm highly recommending this one to all metal fanatics whether you love shred guitar or not!

Sinister Realm-World Of Evil

Shadow Kingdom Records
2013

 
It was back in 2011 when we last heard from Pennsylvania-based Sinister Realm . It was the group's 2nd full-length release, "The Crystal Eye",  that drew me into their world and besides reviewing the disc, which you can link to below, I ended up interviewing the group. While I gave high marks to the album and it's retro metal style it ended up being hit or miss with fans and critics. One sticking point of contention was vocalist Alex Kristof. Many felt he was too one-dimensional for his own good. It's been awhile since I pulled out my CD copy of the album, but from what I'm hearing on "World Of Evil" he seems more then up to the challenge of leading this traditional heavy metal band. More to the point album number three, which still falls within the Black Sabbath/Dio meets Judas Priest/Iron Maiden landscape, actually shows a band that has only grown more confident in their skills as well as a group that has fine-tuned the craft of writing memorable metal. For fans of the aforementioned groups then this is an album that should be well-appreciated.  If you're worried though about another copy-cat retro metal outfit recycling well-known and even more well-loved riffs then put your mind at ease. Sinister Realm seems less like a carbon-copy on this 8-track album and more like a group that has come into it's own. From the vocals, which are really more then fine to these ears, to the guitars, which have all the markings of classic heavy metal and 80's metal,  it's all rather more original in nature and definitely more mature. There's not too much more to it then that. Simply put if you like classic heavy metal and/or traditional heavy metal (especially the big names like Black Sabbath and Judas Priest) then chances are pretty good that you'll find a lot to love about album number three from Sinister Realm.

www.facebook.com/sinisterrealm

http://metalmark.blogspot.com/search?q=sinister+realm 

Sanktuary-Something Fierce

Spread The Metal Records
2013

The last time we say Sanktuary was in 2011 with the "Tundrastruck" 3-way with split with fellow Canadians Metalian and Black Moor. Now this young band, who were formed in 2007 and also have 2 previously released EPs to their name, take up the battle cry that is traditional heavy metal and ride out for glory! Sanktuary, who have blessed Heavy Metal Time Machine with an interview before (see link below), has shared the stage with such acts as 3 Inches of Blood, Skull Fist, Reanimator, Striker, Blood Ceremony and Savage Blade. The band is lead by guitarist/vocalist Alan Binger whose vocals bring to mind many a great cult eighties heavy metal bands. On "Something Fierce" Alan Binger is backed up in style by bassist Cole Hume, drummer Anders Grasholm and guitarist Glen Emond (who appears to no longer be in the band quite possibly). The members of Sanktuary team up to offer the listener some good, old-fashioned, fist in the air metal anthems that kicks off with the 1:44 minute opener "Dead Prey". As an album opener this cut is damn near perfect. It slowly unfolds moving closer and closer to the listener before Sankturary tear into the explosive cut "Heat Lightning". This Megadeth meets Judas Priest like number is a hard living, fast driving thrasher as is "Thrill Of The Kill". On "Thrill Of The Kill" the band finds comfortable footing in territory previously inhabited by the likes of 3 Inches of Blood and Cauldron. With "Hail The Villain" Sanktuary turns back the clock to a time when bands like Iron Maiden, Judas Priest and Dio ruled the land. Taking that foundation the band gives it a shoot of  adrenaline and turns everything up to 11! That's an old Spinal Tap reference for those who don't know, but make no mistake about it this band is nothing if not 100% dedicated to the fine art of kicking ass! "Screeching For Vengeance", while an interesting named number (Priest anyone?) is another "foot on the pedal, let's hit 100 mph guys!" metal thrasher. Somewhere I'd imagine bands like Anvil and Metal Church much be smiling knowing the impact they have had on a generation of young metalheads! One of the album's true highlights is "Beyond The Wall". This number, which serves as a sort of intro for the epic thrasher "Fire In The Sky" is simply the kind of beautiful guitar playing you might have expected to hear out of Metallica way back in the day. When you take the beauty of  "Beyond The Wall" and then follow it up with "Fire In The Sky" (which almost sounds like a mash-up of Judas Priest and Slayer!) you have yourself a true album highlight. Good judgement call guys. That right there is the sign of a band that "gets it". If Sanktuary get's the right kind of press, and word of mouth publicity, and are able to catch a few breaks here in the States (touring-wise, with the right bill, a band like this could explode pretty much over night!) I could see big things for this Canadian outfit. Man, considering all of the great bands coming from our neighbors to the north, Canada is becoming a reliable source of killer heavy metal acts. From bands like Exciter and Anvil (I'm not counting Rush are they are more rock in nature) to new groups like Sanktuary true metal is alive and well on are side of the pound!

For an old interview that Metal Mark did with Sanktuary (as well as a review of their 2010 "Black Metal Brew EP") click on this link!
http://metalmark.blogspot.com/search?q=sanktuary 

Nightglow-We Rise

LOGIC(IL)LOGIC RECORDS
2013


Italy's Nightglow began life back in 2003 with two demos, "Introduction" in 2004 and "Metanderthal" in 2007, preceding this 8-track debut-album. Vocalist Daniele "Abba" Abate leads the band into battle as it were and while it's easy enough to just say that the 5-piece band bridges the gap effortlessly between classic heavy metal and power metal/thrash (in regards to their style) perhaps a little bit of history will help shed some light on just how that sound came about. By the band's own admission they came together "inspired by the English trend of the 80’s", but in 2006 they would be drawn to an American band for inspiration and as a means to pay tribute to their love for true metal. The band started a tribute band to the one and only Manowar called, what else, "ManOwar" and by 2007 they had become the first band in both Italy and Europe to have been recognized by both of Italy's Manowar fans club ("Manowar Italia" and "Army Of Immortals") as the official Manowar tribute band. Now, if you know Europe then you know they love Manowar so that says a lot about Nightglow and their ability!  This Italian band's love of Manowar duly noted, the band continued to forge their own identity and, as Nightglow, it was their other cover choices that helped their sound take on a life of it's own. Live they were known to cover Manowar of course, but they also were known to cover Iron Maiden, Metallica, Black Sabbath, Gamma Ray and Megadeth. Given all of that then it should come as little surprise to learn that Nightglow evolved into this extremely talented hybrid act that walks that thin line between classic metal and power metal/technical thrash. Or at least for the most part. Let me explain. The first three tracks ("We Rise", "Time Lord" and "Between Heaven & Hell") had me thinking along the lines of Dio meeting the technical metal appeal of Metallica's "Ride The Lightning" and "Master Of Puppets". The band's two guitarists, Andrea "Moret" Moretti and Giulio "GNG" Negrini (both of whom came along in 2010) offer up these tasty leads that make these first three tracks some superb power metal. In fact the title cut, which starts off with some chilling sounds effects, sees Nightglow go into full-force heavy metal/thrash overload! It's a power metal assault on your eardrums and wonderfully sets the stage for the rest of this killer album. Technical and heavy, with a slight old-school vibe, these early cuts are played with power and procession making "We Rise" a worthwhile pick up for those first few cuts alone! Drummer Marco "Riskio" Romani and bassist Davide "Fantu" Fantuzzi fill out Nightglow and even if this band wasn't capable of writing great tracks like "Evil Dust", which they are and then some, they could easily stand on the skill level and talent of these musicians alone! All five musicians are at the top of their game here giving Nightglow a mature sound that is highly addictive. I've already listened to "We Rise" several times through and it was hard for me to accept that I needed to tackle some other reviews!  Either way this Italian heavy metal act isn't just about crafting Iron Maiden meets Metallica style material. For you the album takes some interesting twits and turns that you don't see coming. It ends up making "We Rise" all the more appealing. For example the cut "Don't Cry" combines the likes of Danzig, Pantera and "Load" era Metallica into one neat little package while "Dreamland", which is driving heavy metal with fantastic leads and an almost classic rock like structure, sounds somewhat foreign to the album and yet ultimately familiar! And then there is the great "Shine Of Life" which carries itself along nicely and takes on this almost European power metal vibe. It's one of the more catchy numbers and a true highlight. While I touched on the group's obvious love for old-school metal (band's like Dio, Iron Maiden and UFO can be picked up on "We Rise" if you listen between the lines!) they original opted to also have a band "embellished with more modern, sophisticated sound". So, despite the fact that their sound is often a throw-back to the eighties the modern production makes this is album a real pleasure to experience. Without a doubt 2013 and has been a great year so far for heavy metal and band's like Nightglow are keeping the true spirit of the genre alive. you can find out more about the band and how to get a copy of this smashing album for yourself at the link below!

 
 


https://www.facebook.com/pages/Nightglow-Heavy-Metal-Band/245174012224329

Alpha Tiger-Beanth the Surface

Century Media Records
2013

"Beneath the Surface" is not a album that I would have likely given a fair chance. As "Man or Machine", the band's 2011 debut, left a bitter taste in my mouth (it felt far too artificial for my tastes) I almost passed this one over. To be honest it's only because this album made it's way into my Rhapsody queue that I gave it a chance. I'll admit when I'm wrong and maybe, just maybe, I was wrong about Alpha Tiger. Time will truly tell if my initial call about this band will ultimately be right after a few more releases. For now, on album two,  the band has managed a  (seemingly) sincere release that loving takes the appeal of classic heavy metal and gives it an upgrade with a heavy dose of power metal. On the band's first album I got the sense that Alpha Tiger was flowing over with artificial additives that's only purpose was to mimic (better) retro-N.W.O.B.H.M. bands while sticker as close to formulaic heavy metal as they could get away with. Here the writing comes off as more sincere, the music is more technically sound and, yes, the emotion feels all the more "real". I'm sure some would disagree with me and say there was nothing wrong with the band's last release (especially as everyone seemed to rave about it), but it always felt lacking to me. This shows a different, more creative, side of the band as if they are getting more comfortable playing to their own strengths. I guess I'll have to start keeping an eye on these guys if they're going to go about proving me wrong with each new release.

Raven Black Night-Barbarian Winter

Metal Blade Records
2013

From the looks of things it has been a long, tolling journey for this Australian band. Raven Black Night, who were formed in 1999, has seen more then it's fair-share of line-up changes. They spent more then a few of their formative years criss-crossing Australia playing live where/whenever they could. Having released their first album back in 2004, the well-received "Choose The Dark", it's only now that they are able to release a proper follow-up. In their time together they also issued a couple of demos. This is the band's sophomore release and a sign that hard work and dedication pay off. Getting to the heart of Raven Black Night's sound is a bit of a challenge though. There's some doom elements (Black Sabbath and Witchfinder General) and some classic heavy metal (Dio, solo Ozzy and Judas Priest). There were moments when I couldn't help but think of Merciful Fate and other times I was picking up on the early work of Oz (the band). And then there is the N.W.O.B.H.M. elements (other then the Witchfinder General that is) that hold this album together. Pound for pound Iron Maiden is the most obvious name that comes to mind. In an alternate time-line I could almost imagine that Raven Black Night are what Black Sabbath would have sounded like if  they had been influenced by a (early) Bruce Dickinson-lead Iron Maiden. There were other N.W.O.B.H.M. acts that came to mind too like Samson, More, Witchfynde and Cloven Hoof, but it's Iron Maiden you hear the loudest (or quietest as in the case of the band's doom vibe). Speaking of doom/Black Sabbath and the such the band does a decent enough job with their cover of "Changes". While it doesn't match the impact of the original it's interesting to note that their own material comes off stronger then this Ozzy classic. You'd think that a great song like "Changes" would stick out, but it's a so-so experience compared to the band's own compositions. The way in which Raven Black Night is able to pull in these classic heavy metal and N.W.O.B.H.M. guitar solos and then give it a doom coating is, for lack of a better word, cool. There's a real heavy metal vibe that you get from listening to "Barbarian Winter". For those of you that love classic heavy metal bands and the whole N.W.O.B.H.M. movement

NWOBHM WEDNESDAY: FAST KUTZ

Ebony records released this particular "one and done" effort from Fast Kutz back in 1985. By that point in time the N.W.O.B.H. scene was starting to dry up and Fast Kutz was more of a project then an actual band you could argue. It seems as if guitarist Kenny Nicholson (former Holland/Hammer) was able to convince some folks at Ebony that with a little bit of time and money he could whip together a band. Thus the project was put together by Kenny Nicholson  (who is currently with Black Rose) ."Burnin" was supposedly produced by Darryl Johnston (head of Ebony) and features bassist Nev Percivall, ex-GYPO frontman Keith Davison and drummer Paul Fowler. This one was never issued on CD which seems kind of odd and the original vinyl goes for ridiculous amounts. Despite the so-so production it's still a good one-off record with Nicholson in fine form. It's worth noting that at least one of the songs ("Driving Me Crazy") dated back to Nicholson's time in Holland.

http://www.mediafire.com/?npxuh210dvq

Sacred Oath-A crystal vision

Angel Thorne/World Sound
2012 re-issue

In the mid-to late 80's it seemed like every long haired dude who owned an instrument seemed to be trying to form a metal band. In 1985 a couple of high schools kids in Connecticut decided to form a band. Unlike a lot of other clueless teens these guys had some talent. They became Sacred Oath and pretty soon they were playing shows even recorded a demo. Following a second demo they signed a record deal and recorded their debut album "A Crystal Vision" in May of 1987, but it wasn't released until 1988. I didn't hear this album until recent years. I'm not sure that I would have been as impressed by it in 1988 as I am now because I was a thrash first metal fan back then. So maybe it's good that I didn't hear this album until now. Even on their debut the music was tight and well thought out with enough tempo changes to make it interesting. Beyond that they had the skill to not just pull it off, but make it look easy. The style is what qualified as progressive leaning metal in the 80's. Think Fates Warning's  first three albums, Crimson Glory and Queensryche before Rage for order. They also have some classic metal mixed in as well along the lines of someone like Omen. The vocals of Rob Thorne alternate between a deep but clean style and some high pitch screams that he lets loose as needed. It's difficult to pick favorite tracks here as every song is good. If forced to choose I'll go with "The beginning" with it's swirling riffs, the hard hitting "The ferryman's lair" and "Message to the children" which runs six minutes, but feels like they put ten minutes worth of music into it. Fans of 80's metal always seem to have some lesser know albums that they hold up as great albums that most people missed out on. This album doesn't seem to be mentioned in those conversations very often. That's a shame because it should be. Unfortunately the band would break up not lone after this was released. However they years later they reformed. They had the sound down early as this album proves. The re-issue includes a lyric booklet.