This will most probably be my favourite NWOTHM release this year unless something unexpected happens. These guys have clearly studied their classic Iron Maiden and Cloven Hoof albums and developed the kind of melodic approach too few bands these days seem to emphasize. The vocal melodies and guitar solos are especially memorable, they might not be fast or technical, but they're very well thought out and really stand out.

I agree. This album sounds so effortless as well. It's all about love for the genre. Made by a band of fans, for the fans.

I am surprised just how good this album is, it's got all the makings of a classic heavy metal old school album. In terms of quality I can't see many heavy metal releases this year matching this one, I was instantly hooked from the first song to the last, the riffs are groovy as hell, and the songwriting is very good too. The vocals are not great but they are decent enough. Shame about the album cover, it's not great tbh.

Written by AndyMetalFreak on 26.02.2022 at 20:21

I am surprised just how good this album is, it's got all the makings of a classic old school album. In terms of quality I can't see many heavy metal releases this year matching this one, I was instantly hooked from the first song to the last, the riffs are groovy as hell, and the songwriting is very good too. The vocals are not great but they are decent enough. Shame about the album cover, it's not great tbh.

You are inside my head, man. I agree with every single point you made.

Written by nikarg on 27.02.2022 at 13:19

You are inside my head, man. I agree with every single point you made.

I'm glad I'm not the only one who thinks highly of this album. This is a band wuth potential, so I will be keeping a close eye on them in the future.

80s Heavy Metal vibe and original at the same time.

I absolutely love discovering bands and albums like this - unexpected goodness which sounds like it was pulled out from the golden age of 80s with a modern feeling to it. The riffs, melodies, songwriting and the vocals (unlike a few of the above comments, i absolutely love the vocals and the fact that you can distinctly hear the vocalist's accent) all work in harmony and make for a compelling strong record. It's actually hard to believe that this is a debut because it's just THAT good! Definitely will end up on my top albums of 2022 list!

P.s. I would also recommend checking out Eliminator - Ancient Light which was released in January because it's also another fantastic 80s style classic heavy metal album which kicks ass!

The great thing about this(or such) releases is the crafting of classic 80s elements refined in a production that doesn't give you an itch for bog-standard release.

That's a really good record, Venator.