Editorial.

Another printed fanzine? Yes! We understand (and see as fans ourselves) that printed fanzines have been passed over by webzines
the last few years. Then why do we insist? It’s simple. With the same belief that digital forms of music will never replace actual
albums (be it on LP, CD, eve tape!), despite their usefulness, we also believe that no webzines will ever replace the fun of reading
something you can hold in your hands and not on the PC screen (we are not even talking about the danger of myopia, haha).

We finally decided after some years of talk and strong friendship to start a fanzine, which will make its debut at Up the Hammers
V Festival. So we considered only fitting to make an “Up the Hammers special” issue, doing interviews/tributes for all the bands
participating in the Festival (we are not responsible for those not featured...) along with some others (and the regular columns)
that we managed to make in the short time we had in order for this issue to be ready at UTH.

As you have already understood from the cover/contents etc. our main concern will be Classic Metal in all its forms (Power,
Speed, Epic, Heavy, Doom, Progressive). Our main bond is our love for Heavy Metal, so every single line of this fanzine is written
with passion and not objectivity, so excuse us when we get carried away. It will be happening often…We really hope that you will
support this effort and we look forward to your comments concerning this debut issue of Holy Sword. Only the feedback from
Metal fans (and our stubbornness) can help us go on (or even cease publication…). From our part, the goal is to have our next
issue, that will be a monster compared to this one at the next Up the Hammers Festival. Who knows though. Maybe it will be
earlier…Until next time, see you around at our favorite bands’ concerts, at Festivals and remember…

Up the Hammers & Down the Nails

The Holy Sword team:

Antonis Adamakos, Greg Baxevanidis, Kostas Kailiazis
Graphic design by Eleni Papadea
Contents:
Athens, March 2010
Ps. Some may remember Holy Sword as a CD-rom ‘zine
some years back. The idea has not been completely
abandoned, since the possibilities are endless. Pagan Altar... 3-6
Blaze... 7
Holy Sword would like to thank:
Greg “Heavy Load” Varsamis/Jim “Winedrinker” Vagiannis (Eat Stormwarrior... 8-9
Metal), Eleni Papadea, Aris Kapasakalis, Thanos “Heavy Weight
Warrior” Stafylarakis, Mitsos Babalakis for his reviews, Michalis Custard... 10-11
“HMRM” Nochos, Themis Pamfilos & Elina, Kostas Kounadinis
(Steel Legacy), Michalis Bakoulas & Georgia, Elena Tsarouchi Hellish War... 12
(Metalfighters), Rowena O’Sullivan, Manolis Stagakis, Michael
Vaucher & EMERALD, Manos Koufakis/Kostas Organopoulos Hibria...13
(Sonic Age/Cult Metal), Vasilis “Sailor” Koutsomanis, Theodosis
Moiras (Secret Port), Chris Mosalos & WRATHBLADE, Chris “Dog” Storrmbringer... 14
Christodoulou (Sirens), Litsa Trigga, Stella Atsali, Luis for the
PAGAN ALTAR interview, Kostas Kousiouris (Hellenic Forces), Steel for an Age... 15-19
Nikos Papakostas, Laurent Ramadier (Snakepit Magazine), Manolis
Karazeris, Matthias Wulf & Katrin, Marco Concoreggi, Chris Cult Metal Classics... 20
Papadatos (No Remorse), Ilias Konstantinou, Antonis Papachristou,
Dimitris Starakis and of course ALL the bands appearing in this Arryan Path... 22
issue first of all for their music and their co-operation in the process
of tributes/interviews. Atlantean Kodex... 23
Antonis Adamakos would like to thank: Convixion... 24
All of you – YOU know who you are!
Dexter Ward... 25
Gregory Baxevanidis would like to thank: Doomsword... 26-28
The entire Bax family for simply everything, ups and downs,
laughs and cries!!! Hello and greetings to Dimitris Belbas, Alekos Enforcer... 29
Tagmatarhis, Giorgos Mathioulakis & Maria Kantara, Giorgos
Sidiropoulos, Giannis Hatzis, Kostas Salomidis and SORROWS In Solitude... 30
PATH, Kostas Macricostas & Nikos Papadopoulos and BATTLEROAR,
Vaggelis Keramidas and CLAIRVOYANT, Manolis Tsiggos and INNER Marauder... 31
WISH, Dimitris Kokkinos, Simon, Stefan, Tom and the rest of
MEMORY GARDEN, Mike Wead and everyone that -in one way or Mortician... 32-33
another- still has the strength to believe in Heavy Metal values!
SAXON comes naturally first in my mind! God bless you all!
Praying Mantis... 34-35
Kostas Kailiazis would like to thank: Savage Grace... 36-37
My family, George “Karaflas” Mitropoulos & Antonella, Nikos
Stamelatos, Ilias Konstantakopoulos, Paul van der Burght, Andreas Slauter Xstroyes... 38-41
Stasinopoulos, Kostas “Love” Mourdoukoutas and all my comrades
and friends not mentioned (you know who you are) who have been Wild Knight... 42-43
helping me one way or another.
Force Majeure... 44-46
Contact: Holy Sword, P.O. Box 4132, 10210, Athens, Greece
Reviews... 47-60
Email: magazine@holysword.gr, Web: www.holysword.gr
Labels index/Playlist... 61
Cover by Alexandros Vasilopoulos
(taken from the cover of STORRMBRINGER – “Among the Flames
of War” CD)

-1-
I suppose there is no need to introduce PAGAN ALTAR… One of the greatest bands in the history of
Heavy Metal! Fellow templar Luis (from Portugal, publisher of Hell Bent For Metal ‘zine) was kind
enough to take this amazing interview from Terry. Enjoy!
Greetings, O PAGAN ALTAR, from
this your acolyte! I hope winter’s
claws aren’t clutching you too tight!
How are you all?
Terry: Hi Luis, we are all fine and have
had a break since the Metal Forces gig
in which time we intended to use getting
some much needed recording done as
it is now becoming embarrassing the
length of time it is taking us to get
another album out. We have actually lost
much valuable recording time by having
to rehearse to put the live show back
on the road after Andy leaving. If we
hadn’t we wouldn’t have been be able to
fulfil commitments like the Finland tour,
Roadburn, Portugal etc.
It seems an eternity already since
last I saw you, and looking back it
was a mere 8 months ago, which is
already too long! However, you have
hardly stood put in the meanwhile!
How would you describe the gigs
that you played in the summer?
Did you have a good time with all
highs?
Terry: Every time we play is a highlight
for us as the audiences we have
encountered have made it so and as you
know we always give it everything we
can in return so it makes each and every
one special and most certainly when the
PAGAN ALTAR Templars are there. We
had initially considered the band to be
dead and buried long ago so to be able
to return to play live again is like turning
the clock back and having jump leads
off a seventeen year old. Don’t forget as
well that it was only a few short years
ago that the idea of me ever fronting
PAGAN ALTAR again was a million miles
away because after the heart operation
I couldn’t even do joined up talking let
alone sing. So every time I walk out on
that stage now I savour every moment
to the full and really appreciate the
reaction of the audience because that’s
what makes the whole thing worthwhile,
without them there would be no point.
You will never please all the people all of
the time and obviously there are some
that can’t see PAGAN ALTAR for what it
is for whatever reason but I must say
that those that do certainly make up
for it and are a pleasure to play in front
of. When we were in Belgium, Denmark
and Portugal this year for instance
although the crowds weren’t the biggest
in the world they certainly gave us some
great feedback on stage and as far as
we were concerned made the every gig
something special.
In the last few months, the PAGAN
ALTAR ranks have changed slightly,
with the entry of Luke Hunter to fill
in the sorely missed second guitar
slot, a worthy addition to PAGAN
ALTAR! What can you tell us about
the quest for a fitting holder of that
place? Was it easy to go over the
material with him?
Terry: Actually, the guy we were
originally looking for was Davo Cooke,
a great guitarist we had lost contact
with years ago and we finally tracked
him down playing in the band KILL THE
MACHINE with drummer Ian Winters.
Both Davo and Ian were part of XYZ
as was PAGAN ALTAR’s Alan after the
demise of the band about 1984-1985.
Davo couldn’t give up the time from
work that was required to seriously
become part of PAGAN ALTAR and so put
us on to Luke Hunter. Luke coming into
the band has broadened the live playing
potential by a country mile and our type
of music suited him like a glove and
he certainly suited us. He got his head
down and ploughed through the set in
good time and was indeed a very fast
learner. Luke has the ability to take over
finger picking sections that now leaves
Al free to put the leads over the top as
he always should have been doing and
the double leads between the two are
really taking off. So great, we couldn’t
have wished for a better solution!
That wasn’t the only change though,
as Andy Green (all the best to you,
brother!) had to leave you quite
recently, putting the scheduled gigs
at risk. How did you manage to get
around this situation?
Terry: The chance meeting with Davo
also worked in this situation as well as
we had also made contact again with
another long lost friend of many years
standing, drummer Ian (the Bear)
Winters. Ian has been playing drums
for some thirty-two years now and if
anyone as going to dig us out of this
predicament Ian was the man for the job!
Ian is a very powerful drummer and a
larger than life character, they don’t call
him the bear for nothing and his style of
playing will suit PAGAN ALTAR down to
the ground. Because Ian was involved
with another band when we met at the
gig he was playing at we initially asked
him if he knew anyone that would fit
the bill and he unreservedly offered his
-3-
services to which we readily agreed as
we knew from years ago how good he
was. He could still carry on with his own
band if he wished, as we don’t really
play that often it shouldn’t interfere! It
does seem odd in some ways though
as we scoured everywhere far and wide
looking for new band members to fit the
bill and actually they were under our
nose all the time!
With these line-up changes, it
seems the split with DENIAL OF
GOD has kept being delayed! Where
does that as well as the recordings
of new material stand?
Terry: This has got to the stage of being
embarrassing now because if I give my
word I really don’t like letting people
down but through no fault of my own
this has been the case here. The song
we were going to use for the split was
called “The Ripper” and we were going
to do our variation of the subject and
DENIAL OF GOD were going to do
theirs. All was going well, the song had
been written about 3 or 4 years ago and
the rough demo had been recorded that
Al and I do when writing songs. But as
Andy couldn’t spare the time to come
down and rehearse it properly the way
we wanted it the drums and bass were
coming out totally wrong and not the way
we had written it and we would never let
anything out if we weren’t happy with it.
Then Andy’s leaving meant we have had
to shelve everything to get the live set
up and running and that’s where we are
at the moment I’m afraid.
I would have mentioned I would
kill to hear those new tracks but I
opted not to since Francisco from
The Forge (HAILS MAN!) is bringing
you back to our occidental shores
once more! Needless to say I will be
there eagerly awaiting your return
to Portuguese stages, but this
calls for a question about the kind
of sets you’ll be performing, again
considering the two new members
aboard! Will they be centred on the
first two albums or will we be seeing
more of “Mythical and Magical”
along with the brand new tracks?
I must say the Portuguese scene is
bubbling and buzzing around your
gig and I can say on behalf of those
present at last year’s gig that await
you, arms open and Port in hand!
Terry: Believe me we are looking
forward to coming back to Lisboa and
also meeting Drakkar again, I thought
they were a great band. The set we will
put together will be a mixture of all the
albums as usual but possibly with the
addition of a couple from “Never Quite
Dead” which will be nice to give them an
airing. If I can remember I will fetch a
copy of the guide tracks for that album
over with me so you can have a listen.
Every one of us will be “Hell bent” for
putting together the best and most
varied set we can within the time scale
and the two new members are making
great strides to bring this scenario
about!
Coming back to the creation of
“Mythical and Magical”, first of
all, I would very much like to tell
you it is sublime, all of it wrapped
in an almost tangible aura of...
“Folksiness”? When listening to it
I always get images of a Dark Age
Britain with the hamlets and witches
and sorcerers and ghosts lurking
around! I’m not even dreaming of
taking away the deserved valour
of “Volume One” and “Lords of
Hypocrisy”, but “Mythical and
Magical” is simply such a beautiful
jewel! How did you go about
selecting the tracks for that one?
Were they old ones still or brand
new?
Terry: Most of the tracks on “Mythical and
Magical” actually predate the tracks on
the first album and possibly fit the name
PAGAN ALTAR slightly better as they are
more in keeping with Stonehenge i.e.
“Dance of the Druids”. Your perception
of the mood we tried to portray within
the album is spot on. There are no
satanic elements there whatsoever
and the album is an attempt to bring
an even darker side that actually exists
within Folklore but is not so obvious or in
your face as Satanism but nevertheless
still as malevolent. I find it very easy to
write about the subjects we use as most
have an underlying human element and
to me are perhaps, if you open your
mind, within the realms of possibility.
If the listener would allow himself or
herself to be drawn in hopefully they
will perceive what is intended, to listen
with preconceived ideas about whether
it constitutes Doom or not they will
never get it. When composing this
kind of album whether collectively or
individually the songs to my mind must
contain the basis of their origin or else
they won’t ring true so the folksier side
of the subject comes to the fore in some
songs and is not so obvious in others
like “Samhein” and the “Rising of the
Dark Lord”.
You’ve always been quite focused on
obscurantism and darker lyrics, and
still managed to avoid falling into
the typical clichés of so many who
“died as they tried”! Your first two
albums and quite specially “Volume
One” are a perfect example of this!
Still, you don’t use it for cheap
spookiness and most of your songs
have a more or less hidden message
in them, and what I’d like to ask
is how these ambiences through
which you channel them through
emerge! I guess Nunhead Cemetery
comes heavily into play?
Terry: Nunhead Cemetery is always a
great source of inspiration as so many
facets of the past that were instrumental
in the forming of today’s society are
there for all to see if you are prepared
to look. The difference between the
haves and have nots has never been
more evident than in the very nature
of the monuments they leave behind
commemorating their deaths and in
turn mark their status and position
in life in a far more grandiose way
than was available to the very people
that actually put them there! As for
spookiness that really belongs in the
mind of the recipient! Different people
have various underlying fears lurking
in their subconscious of one form or
another and the trick is to trigger it. I
personally find most of the mood and
feel comes from Als guitar far more so
than I could ever portray in words and a
lot of my subject matter comes from the
mood he generates in the initial writing
of a song. I also think with some PAGAN
ALTAR songs the spookiness may come
from the fact that with a little bit of
imagination certain aspects or resulting
situations could possibly really come
to pass should the lessons and failings
of the past or present be ignored and
allowed to continue. The personal
element and human analysis and
assessments are the easiest to portray
as you only have to People-watch and
listen and the Hypocrisy that abounds
within this World and the people running
it become blatantly obvious!
As for the lyrics, these ones are
far more mystical and old-tale-ish
driven than the other two albums,
at least to me! Was there any
particular element that influenced
your lyric writing? Although you
did mask some songs with a
“fantasy” appearance, like “The
Sorcerer”, “The Rise of the Dark
Lord” or “Crowman”, there is
always a message behind them,
even if delivered more subtly than
the beautiful and direct “Sentinels
of Hate” or “Masquerade”! How
important is the creation of lyrics to
you, Terry? Do the lyrics come first
and then the music later or does the
inverse happen?
Terry: Not really, I look for inspiration
from any quarter; even a chance remark
can set the wheels in motion although I
suppose my best and most prolific source
is when I’m listening to the basic riffs
that Al records for me to put lyrics to!
Listening to it and seeing what it brings
to mind usually leads me on to what the
song requires and I always feel this is the
time when the music and lyrics become
one. Not so long ago though I put up
a thread on the PAGAN ALTAR Templars
site asking for any instances of fear in
their childhood that had made a marked
impression on them even to this day.
The replies were quite enlightening and
also the detailed and explicit memories
of these fleeting moments they had
retained until adulthood. Albert, the
bass player from the band FORSAKEN
remembered being frightened by a
room that his parents kept antiques in
and this became the basis for the song
“The room of Shadows”, but to find out
more about this you’ll have to wait ‘till
the album comes out!
This was one of the few occasions when
the lyrics come before the music as with
“The Ripper” but this scenario doesn’t
happen very often! Behind the majority
of our songs as I have said before
there is an element of truth even “The
Crowman” within certain types of Morris
-4-
dancers still performed at festivals and
fetes in England or “The Sentinels of
Hate” in Nunhead cemetery looking
down on their inferiors in their broken
shattered graves! Look back on the
lyrics of the song and it’s not hard to
see how easy it is to get this perception
of how things were and that even after
Death the roles still remained the
same. The orated passage I added at
the beginning of the Crow man wasn’t
originally there and came from the time
I was in Hospital and this damned old
Crow followed me everywhere for two
weeks, watching my every move like
the eyes of the Crow man and even
perched outside the ward window even
at night making a Hell of a row waiting
to see if I was going to pop my clogs at
any moment.
In the same year “Mythical and
Magical” was released, Themis
created the order to which I proudly
belong, the PAGAN ALTAR Templars.
Four years after its inception and
a few gigs done already since
the mythical and magical (pun
intended) first one in Athens, are
there any striking stories you’d feel
like sharing with all of us?
Terry: I could go on all day with stories
and the wonderful memories of moments
that usually occur when meeting people
from all over the World at our gigs. As
well as the reaction of the audience, that
never ceases to amaze me BTW, there
are instances that make me personally
feel very humble like recently at the
Metal Forces Festival in Germany. I was
talking outside the venue to a couple of
young guys, just in general as they were
asking questions and so forth, then they
told me they had come to especially to
see us. I asked where they had come
from expecting somewhere in Europe
but no they had travelled all the way
from Mexico City!!! Unbelievable that
people would now travel so far to see
a band that no one wanted to know or
cared about when we were in our prime!
I suppose it should give us a good idea
of the high esteem the band is now held
in but for some reason Alan and I still
have a bit of trouble getting our heads
around the fact that people would now
go to those lengths and financial outlay
just to see us play. There have of course
been many other occasions when similar
instances have occurred like meeting
the young lady that had travelled on
her own from Brazil to see us and young
Annick and Nick from Canada and the
USA respectively! The very fact that I
remember these meetings so vividly
shows what an impact they have had
on me and are certainly unforgettable
although without the vehicle of PAGAN
ALTAR of course I would never have
experienced them! The Templars are
without doubt the biggest and best
achievement in the history of PAGAN
ALTAR. It was the brainchild of Themis
Pamfilos in Greece and all accolades
in that department should be solely
directed at him not PAGAN ALTAR itself.
The camaraderie that exists there is
second to none and PAGAN ALTAR are
extremely proud and honoured to have
this fan club as its flagship. When the
various Templars from all countries
meet when we are playing it’s akin to a
family reunion and gigs take on a whole
new perspective when they are there.
To look down from on stage and see
those red shirts across the front is like
an adrenalin rush and their undoubted
enthusiasm is certainly infectious and
seems to catch on with the audience.
Can you comment on the Greek gig?
I understand that it was something
special for you, as you have stated
many times in the past…
The Greek gig was a one off; I don’t
think we will ever see it’s like again,
well unless we go back at some stage
even then it will be hard to match.
The decision to start playing live again
was made in Greece after the amazing
reception we received when Alan and I thanks to Nuno he did a great job on the
stayed with Themis and Elena in Athens lights even though he didn’t have too
(e.note: October 2005). The attention much to work with.
paid to us by Ted, George, Spiros and
Evie saw that we wanted for nothing Recently you’ve had Diccon put his
and they have remained friends ever talents to work on a new guitar-
since. The whole affair made a lasting which is looking cooler and cooler
impression on Alan and I and the night as time passes! Together with Al
spent in the tavern (e.note: Terry and even some very cool looking
means the “Lefka” tavern where the pendants and badges! Where did he
photo pictured was shot ) where people get all those crafting skills?
came from all over to meet us still ranks Terry: Who knows, but he also does a
as a high by any standards. I think it lot to set up various members guitars
was probably where we first realised the properly, renew frets, wire in pickups
amount of affection the band was held you name it he does it. Diccon was
in and in so being made the final definite looking for something to do as a private
decision to play live again easy. I have enterprise and we came up with idea
always harboured the hope that when I of him making pewter pendants and
do finally hang up my microphone the badges of the bands logo on licence
last gig I do will be in Greece, perhaps from Oracle Promotions. He has put one
on the roof of Themis’s beach house like Hell of a lot of man-hours in to make
the first time we were there! the moulds and cast and fine up the
finished article and every bit of them of
Having played a quite reasonable course has to be done by hand. I think
number of places and having they are a very good replica of the logo
interacted with a good deal of bands and are well worth what he charges as
since your return, what do you guys they are a one off. He is also hoping to
make of the “scene” in Europe? create some other designs like Pagan/
Terry: From our own perspective the witchcraft symbols etc but it takes
whole of Europe seems to be alive and forever to carve the moulds but I think
kicking with some very good, well- he’s single minded enough to achieve it.
organised festivals and gigs etc. We have If anyone’s interested in the badges and
not to my knowledge found any problem pendants you can order them through
with any of the bands we have shared the appropriate links on both the PAGAN
a stage with in fact to the contrary, we ALTAR web site or Myspace site!
seem to get on fine with everyone. The
promoters are always very good and Coming back throughout the ages
dependable with efficient staff around to the ill fated year of 1984/5 when
them to cater for anything you may the band first broke up, can you
need. I quite like doing the small ones tell us first what led to the PAGAN
though as they seem that bit more ALTAR’s demise and secondly,
personal and although the audiences what you guys were up to until
are much smaller you can get much the times where history began to
closer to them. In Ireland recently we be chronicled again, in 1998? Did
were standing toe to toe with them and you keep in touch with old band
the whole night was great, like playing members over the years?
in your front room, brilliant, almost like Terry: Everyone went their separate
a sing a long! ways except Al and I, there were of
course encounters over the years but
Talking about the live gigging as nothing specific until we decided to
a whole here, is there still any release all the old material again and
chance we will be witnessing the decided to put the band back together
fabled stage set ups of yore or is
it definitely a subject left behind
already? It’s not as if you don’t
deliver a great show, and especially
show care with the details, as you
did with the lights here in Portugal,
for instance (Nuno-the-lights-fellow
sends his regards!)!
Terry: I doubt very much whether we
will be able to resurrect the live stage act
mores the pity as it would be impossible
to cart it all around with us now, the
only place we could probably get away
with it is in England and we don’t play
there much. Back then we had two vans
to cart everything around in but I don’t
think they would let us get that lot on
a plane and God knows what the cost
would be? Incidentally, Al still has the
coffin in his cellar! Please pass on my
-5-
again to get the recording underway!

Speaking of old band members,

what happened to Val and would
she agree to perform with you guys
on stage? Now that WOULD be
priceless, to have you and her great
voice performing “The Erl King” or
“The Sorcerer” or even “Lords of
Hypocrisy”!
Terry: I would love Val to do some live
work with us but think she has some
issues in her private life so I am a bit
dubious to ask. I agree that the songs
especially “The Erl King” and “The
Sorcerer” would be greatly enhanced
by her contribution to the point of me
not wishing to contemplate even doing
them without her.

Letting go of all these “ifs”, as

spectacular as they may be and
coming back to the only time frame,
which really matters, the present
and the near future, what are your
hopes and goals for 2010?
Terry: To get the next album out before
I die of old age and to meet and talk to
as many people when playing live as I
possibly can.
pagan altar
From my part, thank you for taking
your time with me and I am dying
templars
to meet once more come April! If
there’s anything you would like to
add to this chat of ours, feel free to
do so, the floor is yours! Blessings
upon you and May you keep on
bewitching us for many a year still!
Terry: Just to add on behalf of all the
band members and myself a big thank
you to all the Templars and audiences
alike that have given us such great
receptions wherever and whenever we
have played. I would also like to add
that should anyone feel inclined please
come up and introduce yourself to us at
gigs, we appreciate it!

Luis Ruivo

Discography:
“Pagan Altar” demo tape
(Private, 1982)

“Volume 1” CD
(Oracle, 1998)

“The Time Lord” EP

( I Hate, 2004)

“The Lords of Hypocrisy” CD

(Oracle, 2004)

“Judgment of the Dead” LP

(Black Widow, 2005)

“The Lords of Hypocrisy” 2LP

(The Miskatonic Foundation. 2005)

“Mythical and Magical” CD

(Oracle, 2006/2007)

“Walking in the Dark” 7” single

(I Hate, 2007, split with JEX THOTH)

“Mythical and Magical” 2LP

(The Miskatonic Foundation, 2008)

-6-
 Well, I must admit that BLAZE was among the most pleasants
surprises of the decade and I consider their eponymous debut a
truly heavy metal masterpiece! Thanks to my good friend Vassilis,
this fine piece of art come to our hands and made our ears bleed,
our senses travel to England where NWOBHM artists followed
the glorious tradition of U.F.O. and then up to Swedish shores
for witnessing the birth of all time European epic metal gods
HEAVY LOAD… So to cut things short, here’s the interview with the
mastermind of the Japanese commandos, guitarist Hisashi Suzuki
and let’s pray that they will continue to offer to us shivers in
the back!!! HAIL!!!

on murder cases, though that’s easy Did you find a replacement

First of all, I’d like to admit that
it’s more than pleasure to include
BLAZE in our magazine! I know that
almost 2 years have passed since
the release of your debut but I’d
like to ask you a couple of things
concerning your first official release.
Are you satisfied by its’ final result
and the approval by the fans and
press as well?
I’m reasonably satisfied about the result
of our first album. Of course, it’s not
perfect. But we had to make this album
in a limited time and the budget. And we
did a lot of small mistakes. Especially, it
was difficult to record the sound of the
drum well. But we did our best. I think
that we could record hot of our tunes.
So I assumed it’s good in this. The fans
who assist in us are small number, but
they are very hot and I’m proud of them.
It is necessary to make an effort that
the person who doesn't know us may
learn. But it’s very difficult... Also our
album was friendly introduced by Burrn,
Daemonic Majesty and some webzines.
I greatly appreciate their reviews,
because we are just one of local bands
and we have no manager and label.
Your songwriting style have much
in common with bands from the
NWOBHM era, hints of the mighty
UFO and of course Swedish metal
legends HEAVY LOAD! Do you
agree with the aforementioned
description?
Yes, I agree. I like early 80’s NWOBHM
bands and I am influenced by them. And
I like 70’s hard rock that they would have
heard. Of course, I know HEAVY LOAD.
Though I am not influenced by them so
much, I think I like same sounds they
had loved. Mr.Michael Schenker is my
favorite guitarist.
Can you give us in brief the lyrical
approach of your songs?
I had not written the lyrics until I play
with BLAZE. As I had not been interested
in lyrics, making lyrics is not easy for
me. Some lyrics are written based on
my experience and friend's story. Some
lyrics are written about crime cases.
When I have no idea, I compose based
way.
Which is the songwriting procedure
of a BLAZE’s song and who is the
main responsible person for the
music?
It’s me.
Did you face any kind of legal
problems with the other Japanese
band BLAZE and did you think about
changing your name after all to
avoid misunderstandings?
As we are not popular here, we have not
claimed to change by other BLAZE. If
we will face some of legal problems in
future, we will have to think the name
is changed. When we started as BLAZE,
another blaze did not exist and we did not
know them. The friend who supported
us gave the band name, Blaze for us.
When the first drummer left, we thought
it’s changed. After all, we could not do.
Some of our fans opposed to change.
Anyway, if we have some troubles about
the name, we will have to think.
Taking under consideration the fact
that Japan is a big country with a
strong metal fanbase, how often
are you playing gigs? Have you
support any well known artists at
their Japanese tour so far?
Perhaps, I also think that a lot of heavy
metal fans still exist in here Japan. But
many of them have not interests in
domestic heavy metal bands, especially
teens and twenties. Of course, there are
a lot of problems also in the bands. I
think Japanese heavy metal scene had
become small than before. I would like
to make people who had lost interest
in Japanese metal can take an interest
again. We play gig once a month. We
have not supported well known artists.
How the idea of signing with a
record shop such as Wild One came
up? Did they help you to promote
the album worldwide?
Oh, Wild One is my local record shop
in Osaka, so Wild One is not them. We
made our album for ourselves, complete
private pressing.
Do you think that internet and my
space pages more specific give to
new bands the opportunity to reach
audience that in any other case
couldn’t do it?
Of course, internet and my space are
amazing. 20 years ago, we could not
impart our information even to Tokyo.
It seems that vinyl nowdays is
coming back stronger after o long
period, so should we expect a vinyl
version of the album or not?
I still like the sound of vinyl. I think we
had better to do the mix down for vinyl,
because I feel the recent vinyl is not so
good. But I would like to make our vinyl
someday.
after the departure of Yasuhito
Yamomamoto?
Yes, we had played with new drummer,
Takashi Funabiki since May, 2009.
Although BLAZE are existing from
1998 you’ve only released except
the album a single with two songs…
What kind of problems did you face
all these years?
After we released first two track demo
cdr, the drummer left the band. It
took two years to find the drummer,
Yasuhito Yamamoto. In addition, it was
not possible to act as thought in the
convenience of the work of the member
for one year.
Are there any plans concerning
the forthcoming second album?
The new songs will be at the same
musical style or not?
Yes, I wish to make second album with
new drummer, Mr.Funabiki. But we
may release two or three tracks single
in future... Anyway, I’m keeping make
a song. I think our musical style is not
changed. I always aim at the sounds
that it seems to be bright, but it has a
shadow, it seems to be sad, but it’s not
dark. I like such a song.
If I was asking you to pick up 10
favorite albums that changed your
life forever which should be?
It’s difficult. I like many albums had
ever released and I like folk, classic
rock, progressive rock and blues rock,
too. When I was in my teens, I came to
like heavy metal. I pick up my favorites
in heavy metal and hard rock. They are
albums which I had often listened from
my teens and twenties.
AC/DC - “Highway to hell”
DEF LEPPARD - “High ‘n’ dry”
IRON MAIDEN - “Iron maiden”
LED ZEPPELIN - “IV”
MOTORHEAD - “Overkill”
SAXON - “Saxon”
STATUS QUO - “Quo”
THIN LIZZY - “Jailbreak”
UFO – “No heavy petting”
WISHBONE ASH / “Argus”
I’d like to thank you so much for
your time and I really wish you the
best for the years to come! Any
last words for the readers of this
interview?
Thank you. Well, I’m very surprised to
hear from Greece for this interview,
because we had not received the
interview even in Japan except Daemonic
Majesty fanzine. I’m very happy if you
in Greece are pleased in our sounds.
Keep on rockin! Many thanks my friend.
Arigatooooo!
Gregory Baxevanidis

-7-
 One of the bands I really adore from the current German
metal scene is without a single doubt STORMWARRIOR from
Hamburg… Following from the very beginning their steps and
early demo/single recordings, it’s more than obvious that this bunch
of crazy metallers deliver nothing but pure epic / power / speed
mayhem that will bleed the ears of the infidels… The interview with Lars
Ramcke (guitars/vocals), took place soon after the release of the “Heading
Northe” album and a couple of weeks before their participation to the Up the
hammers III festival…

It’s great to see you back in action
after merely 3 1/2 years with such a
brilliant effort! First of all what has
happened with your previous bass
player and he left the band?
Thank you. Jussi left the band because
he could not invest enough time in
the band anymore, mainly because
of his studying. During the last three
years there wasn’t that much going on
with STORMWARRIOR except of some
festival gigs and one smaller tour but in
the meantime there is a lot more work
to be done with the new album, promo
work and new gigs, etc. so that would
have interfered with his studying. We
were talking about that with the whole
band and decided together to part ways
with him. But we’re still best friends and
there have never been any personal
problems between us.
So you’re “Heading Northe” once
again… Your feelings concerning
your third studio recording?  album.
It’s definitely the best we have done so
far in my opinion and I hope that with
this album and the good promotional
work of our new record label we’re ready
to make a huge step forward concerning
the band’s size and reputation.
I’ve listened many times the new
album and it’s more than obvious
that all the elements of the past are
present with a slight more melodic
approach, especially in the vocal
area. Was it a natural move for the
band?
Yeah, I think so. We wanted to make
it all a bit more catchy and grown up
but without letting it sound too soft or
smooth. We concentrated a lot more
on the work-out of the lead guitars
and the vocal lines of course. With our
new bassist Yenz, who is also a great
vocalist, we could try out some different
things concerning the backing choirs to
make it all sound more majestic or even
mystical sometimes. So I would say that
with this new release the band could
develop into the right direction.
Correct me if I’m wrong but it’s
the first time that your sound –
especially the mid tempo songs -
bring MANOWAR in mind. How was
this decision taken?
MANOWAR has always been a great
influence on us but on the earlier albums
it was harder to bring their sound into
our music. This time we wanted to widen
the spectrum of our sound and open it a
bit more to bring in some epic moments.
So, of course MANOWAR had been an
influence but I would also mention some
BATHORY parts as well as some JUDAS
PRIEST aspects to have been added to
our sound to let it all together sound
more ownstanding than the previous
releases.
What has happened with your
previous label and you parted
ways? Do you know that none of
your previous albums has official
distribution in Greece ?
Yeah, I know. But it is not only in Greece
that way. Actually our previous label
could not bring up enough power to
support the band anywhere else than
in Germany the way it would have been
necessary (honestly, even in Germany
it could have been better). So we sat
down with them and talked it over and
we could make an arrangement with
them that was good for both of us
with the result that the upcoming “Live
at Wacken” DVD will still be released
through Remedy Records this summer
but at the same time we are free to sign
to another record label with our third
How the collaboration with
Dockyard 1 achieved? Are they fully
support your activities and do you
think that the time has come for
STORMWARRIOR to reach higher
success?
Well, since the guys of Dockyard 1 were
working at the Noise and Sanctuary office
before, we got them to know through our
management and the guys of GAMMA
RAY so it was not really necessary to
search for a new label for a long time.
And since the Dockyard 1’s people have
a lot of experience I think they are fit
enough to put STORMWARRIOR some
steps higher especially in the outside of
Germany. So far we got more than four
times distribution areas and interviews
worldwide than we had before, so I
think they do a good job so far.
The improvement of the production
and the excellent cover artwork
were two more elements that place
“Heading Northe” one higher level
comparing with its predecessors.
Can you give us a few more details
about those subjects?
Since we looked over Kai’s shoulder
during the productions of our first two
albums and I also studied some audio
engineering the last years, we built up
our own studio (Thunderhall Studio) in
Hamburg and we recorded everything on
our own this time. Of course it took way
more time than before but the result is
what matters in the end. The mix was
done by Piet Sielck (IRON SAVIOR,
SAVAGE CIRCUS) at Powerhouse
Studio and for the mastering we went
to Tommy Hansen (Jailhouse Studio) in
Denmark to let him give the final sound
adjustments. The artwork was again
done by Uwe Karczewski and in my mind
it’s the best work he has ever done.
It’s not the most common thing for
an underground band to release a
live album after only two albums…
It seems that “At foreign shores”
was the exception to the rule. What
do you recall from that period your
live shows in Japan ?
It was our first tour in general and it was
totally overwhelming. The way the fans
welcomed us was really unexpected by
us. We were supporting GAMMA RAY
on their “Majestic” tour but the fans
were also really great to us being just
the supporting act. It was the best
experience the band had done until then
so we decided to make a live album
out of the recordings that were done
during that tour anyway. Of course it
was really unusual and maybe too early
for a live album after just having two
studio albums out, but we did it mainly
for ourselves to always have something
in our hands to remind us on our first
tour…
What does the involvement with
themes from Nordic mythology
mean for you personally? A simple
interesting lyrical approach or a
time period that your heart and
mind belongs to?
We’re living in the northern part of
Germany which once belonged to
Denmark so there are still some roots
in the old northern times concerning
mentality and culture, a connection
between the pre-christian times and the
way people act or feel in these days. So
for me this time period also belongs to
my past or to my origin in a way, so I
feel some kind of necessity to combine
my music with this thematic, above all
because of the great tales about battles,
kings and ancient gods that fit perfectly
to heavy metal music.
What do you recall from the early
demo recordings of the band and
generally do you feel vindicated by
your strong will to continue chasing
your own dream despite a couple of
negative reviews?
Definitely. When I started the band and
we did the first demo recordings we
didn’t have any clue of how to record
anything and we didn’t care that much
about arrangements of songs and parts.
It was just plugging in and playing
heavy metal because it was our lifestyle.
We didn’t care about what anyone else
would say, it just simply didn’t matter.
There were a lot of line up changes and
problems in the past concerning the
band but I never gave up, it just made

-8-
me and the band stronger. I think that
fact and all the hard work combined
with what we could learn during the first
productions with Kai made the band
grow to become musicians. So now the
band is definitely stronger than ever
and, as one says, “ready to conquer the
world”… Hahaha...
Many people believe that your close
friendship with Kai Hansen was the
main reason for reaching audiences
that in any other case won’t happen.
What’s your answer to them?
Of course we had the chance to play
greater festivals because we played
some shows together with Kai but that
was not the reason for doing that. We
just loved the old “Walls” era best and
since Kai also had great fun with the old
songs on stage again, we decided to do
some more shows of that kind. After
the first gig together with Kai he came
up on his own and asked “when is the
next gig, we should definitely do that
again…”. So who could say “no” to that
offer…;-). Anyway, of course we learned
really a lot from him, but everyone who
says that STORMWARRIOR would not
be able to function in any case without
Kai Hansen should just listen to our new
album. This is maybe the best answer to
them because “there was no Kai Hansen
used on this album…”.
The entire power metal world was
shocked by the last releases of
HELLOWEEN and GAMMA RAY… Do
you think that it’s the best chance
for younger fans to get familiar with
these bands?
I think every younger fan should buy the
“Walls of Jericho” album... Concerning
both bands in these days I would prefer
GAMMA RAY of course.
finished their whole promotion plan.
DISCOGRAPHY:
The current Underground metal
scene is full of astonishing bands “Metal Victory” demo tape
that unfortunately can’t easily gain (Private, 1998)
the attention of a wider audience.
Which is according to your opinion “Barbaric Steel” demo tape
the main reason of this unpleasant (Private, 1999)
situation?
Well, I don’t know exactly, but it has “Possessed by Metal” 7” single
always been hard for smaller bands (Dream Evil, 2001)
especially without a good record
company in the back. To gain attention “Spikes and Leather” 7” single
you need to be heard in the bigger (Remedy, 2002)
magazines and mainly it’s not possible
for smaller bands to get inside these “Stormwarrior” CD/LP
‘zines because they don’t have enough (Remedy, 2002)
money to do some advertising there.
Another thing could be that there are “Heavy metal fire” mini-CD/EP
way too many bands around and some (Remedy, 2003)
really bad bands have a record deal that
should better have been signed by a “Odens Krigare” 7” single
smaller but greater band… (Remedy, 2004)
Thank you very much for your time “Northern Rage” CD/LP
and once again congratulations for (Remedy, 2004)
“Heading Northe”! The last words
belong to you… “At foreign shores-
Thank you for the interview and to all Live in Japan” CD/LP
crazy bangers out there for reading (Remedy/Killer Metal, 2006)
this. Hope you enjoy the “Heading
Northe” album and see ye all at the Up “Heading Northe” CD
the Hammers festival!!! Rock Hard, Ride (Dockyard1, 2008)
Free!
www.stormwarrior.de
Gregory Baxevanidis

In April you’ll pay a visit to Athens

for the annual UP THE HAMMERS
festival so what should we expect for
this particular live performance?
Yeah, we’re really looking forward to
visit Greece for the first time. I think we
will mainly play material from the new
album, but also some older tunes of
course. I don’t know the set length yet,
but we will definitely give the maximum
of German heavy / speed metal to burn
the Athens stage!!!
 
You’ve played in big festivals during
the past years including Wacken
Open Air, Bloodstock, Earthshaker
among the others… Which live
performance any why still consider
it as the most successful and is there
a schedule plan for the promotion of
the new album?
I think last year’s Wacken show was
really great. We had a lot of energy
and of course really a lot of pyro stuff
on stage. And there were about 20000
people standing in front of the stage
that made it all a great party. The album
will be released in the end of February in
Europe, I don’t know the other release
dates of Japan, China, Korea, USA,
Brazil, etc. right now, but so far some of
the festivals we will be playing (besides
Up the Hammers) will be MANOWAR’s
Magic Circle Festival, Sweden Rock I
think and one festival somewhere in
Slovenia. Else we will have some single
gigs in Germany. But I think we will
get a lot more dates when the album
is released and the record label has

-9-

First of all, congratulations for your
last record “Forces remain”, I really
can’t think of a most suitable title…
Do you feel the same enthousiasm
as when it was released?
Thank you. We did our very best to
record this album and for sure we are
more than happy when we get some
respect for the result of our blood, sweat
and tears.
I also think that the title is a perfect
fit, because there were massive line-up
changes from the last album “Wheels
of Time” till now and some people were
talking about the end of CUSTARD has
come. But we got it up and running
again quite fast, so the album is a
statement: The power & magic is still
in the band. I was really happy as i got
the first reviews.
Fourth full length for CUSTARD and
you’ve changed record label again…
Are you satisfied until know by Dr
Music and which are the reasons
that you don’t stay in the same label
for more than a release?
Yeah, i know this looks very strange
from the outside, but this is quite
simple. It is not a secret that I am doing
the business-stuff in CUSTARD- and
I do this for about 20 years now. So I
know exactly what I want and how a
relationship between a label and a band
should work. I know what happens
“behind the scenes”. Some labels sign
un-experienced newcomers and try to
fuck them up, do no work, do strange
things with money and lie. They can
not do this with me so I am not really
comfortably for them. Fortunately we
are in a position where we can choose
from a number of labels, so why should
we stay with one without being 100%
satisfied ? Dr Music is a good fit so far.
They have some different politics where
a band has to do much more label-work
than usual; but can also earn much more
$ than usual. Good for the experienced
but crap for newcomers. Comfortable
home for us so far.
I’ve listened many times to “Forces
remain” and I truly believe that it’s
probably the most well balanced
effort of your entire career! The
equal dozes of power/speed metal
anthems of the past are coexisting
hand in hand with more melodic
tunes which prove the talent and
intense songwriting of the band!
Which one of you is responsible for
this and which is the procedure that
you follow when you’re writing a
song?
First of all I have to admit that I am a
bad songwriter. All my bandmates are
doing a great job, writing stuff, spend a
lot of time with heart and soul. Mostly
we start out with an idea comming from
the guitars and we try to get a feeling
out of this and try to find a perfect beat
and bassline and put it together with
other parts. If we once found the main
in kind of “verse, bridge, chorus” we do
a simple and crappy recording and Olli
listen to this every day in his car on the
One of the bands that I really appreciate from the German
Heavy Power Metal scene are CUSTARD. From their inception
until now they stay true to their sound but also remind us that
only the European bands will help in the rising of the Metal
Giant once more. We had a very nice talk with the drummer of
the band, Chris Klapper and this is what he had to say
motorway or else. Some weeks later he
is back with an idea of a vocal line and
a main “theme” and we can arrange the
song together. A piece of solo-stuff, some
backing vocals... until we say “thats it”.
Everyone is free to add his personal style
and feel- my job is to keep an eye to the
results and ask “is this what CUSTARD
stands for?”. For sure we will develope
our style and try some unusual things
like the high-pitched lady-vocals at the
song “The Dragonslayer”, but we will
not turn around without having a base.
If you buy a CUSTARD album you can
be pretty sure to find some melodies,
some speed, some stomping mid-tempo
stuff and something to sing along after
two rotations.
Which are the main differences
of “Forces remain” and “Wheels
of time” your previous album? Do
you agree that besides the songs
structure, the production sounds
massively improved?
Truly there are many differences,
especially the guitar riffing is more rude
and cold and the vocal-lines on “Wheels
of Time” are sweeter and not as heavy
as they are on “Forces Remain”. The
people who wrote the most stuff on
“Forces Remain” had a different musical
background and different minds- and
that you have to hear- otherwise there
is no personality in the music. In the
end the music is a small view to the
inside of all musicians, as long as they
have the ability to play with their heart
and not with mathematics. Yesss, I also
think that the production is way better
than all albums before. That is also a
question of experience and with “Forces
Remain” we tried a different way to
produce. We had nearly no time to keep
during the recordings and recording and
mixing is partly done in different studios.
Also we had a first class mastering guy
who helped us during the mix before
he put the final hand on the album in
his mastering-booth. We learned a lot
and i am looking forward to the next
recordings. I think we can do it even
better then.
You are the only remaining member
from the early days of CUSTARD…
Do you think that all these line up
changes help the band gain the
success that it definitely deserved?
Well, it is hard to keep a stable line-up
over many years, because the personal
taste and needs are changing everytime.
So I have no bad feelings about the
changes inside- and in the end the
band really grows with every influence
who came with the new members. It
is very positive, as long as you do not
try to renew everything with every new
member and keep an eye to the roots.
Over the years I have seen a number of
musicians come and go with great plans
to get rich and famous - but after all
nothing happened with them. I am still
there, play great shows, record great
albums- I am satisfied and I do not hunt
-10-
for more and faster success every day.
Some of my former bandmates even
came back after years, like Micha (bass)
and also Dirk (guitar) just stepped back
in as a replacement for Robert, who left
recently. So there must be something
right in my way to steer the ship.
Continuing the previous question,
is the current album the beginning
of a new era and a statement that
CUSTARD will never disappoint the
fans and continue to chase their
dream?
“Forces Remain” was not really planed
as a “new era” or something. Just to see
thru the eyes of the new bandmates:
“Hey, I am in a band now who has done
great albums and the guys trust me.
Now it is up to me...”. Like you know
we had well skilled musicians all the
way long and every new member had
to work hard to get to the level we need
and it also took some time to bring it
all together as a real “band” and not as
a “few musicians”. We will only record
an album when we are 110% with the
songs we wrote. So the fans can be
sure: when we do an album, it is what
CUSTARD stands for. We will definitely
chase our dreams and all the fans are
invited to join our ride.
Can you give us in a few words what
each effort of CUSTARD means for
you?
Hmmm, it is a bit like a birth of a baby.
We stuck in a dark room and wrote
songs, every member gave his best and
a part of his inside. We had an idea how
the album can possibly sound. Nothing
more than a rough sketch. And when we
have the final album in our hands we
are extremely proud- like “fathers”. So
when i look back to all of the “babies”
I am proud to say that each one has
its own spirit and personality. No filler-
stuff without face and heart. There are
big differences in production, that is a
reason of experience and not too much
of the studio-equipment and money. We
recorded the Demo “Signa Inferre” in
our rehearsalroom with rented 16-track
equipment and no idea how to use it
in two days. The 3 hour studio-mixing
was included and we were busy just to
recognize “hey, we are rockstars now,
we are in a studio” instead of work with
the engineer.
For “God of Storm” EP we had a friend
who had some kind of studio-stuff in his
cellar, and a bit more time. But finally
it sounds terrible and we had to rescue
the mix at home with two tape recorders
and an equalizer as last minute action.
“Kingdoms of your Life” was the first
real studio and engineer thing we did.
Was cool for the time, very rough sound
and some really nice songs. “For my
King” we did in the same studio. As all
instruments were done, we faced that
we had to get a new singer to increase
the quality and match the music. So we
had a break for two weeks and came in
with Guido and told him what to do. But
the songs are cool anyway and we still
have some of them in every live-set we
play. Best selling album we had so far.
“Wheels of Time” was a very expensive
recording, because we booked a lot of
studiotime. Cool sound, good songs,
successful. With “Forces Remain” we
had the most relaxed recordings and
had enaugh time to try out something.
We had different people who joined us
and improved the sound. I personally
learned many things from the production
in a technical way. Also great songs,
what did you expect ;-)
Merely twenty yeras in the metal
business you’ve certainly listen
and see many things that probably
didn’t expect when you’ve started…
Can you point the most significant
differences of metal bands, fans and
record labels back then and now?
Yepp, as i started out in this biz I had
a clear view: write good songs, record
them, sell them, get rich and famous-
quite easy, eh ? We had a great lack
of informations in these times- you
know: no internet, no networking, no
good friend in the biz. So everything
what we have seen is the high-gloss
covers of some magazines or some sold
out shows- i was 15 years old at this
time. We had no idea about the work to
reach this point, but we started doing
something. It took us 5 years to get a
support-slot at a good tour and 6 years
to get a record deal. In the end I do this
stuff for more than 20 years now and
I have never seen my face on a high-
gloss cover, but i am satisfied to have
a great band up and running for a long
time.
How the decision to re-record the
fabulous self titled track from your
first mini cd “God of storm” came
up? I think that your new vocalist
Olli Strasser gave to the song an
even more attractive shape… Do
you agree?
Exactly this is the reason why we
recorded this track again now. If you
would know Olli in person you would
agree that he really feels the meaning
of the song- he is not just singing
along; he is really inside the song. So
this was a very magic moment for us all
as we played this song with Olli for the
first time and we just wanted to share
this “magic” and try to bring it to the
album. Also this is a statement to our
own history- we still like most of our old
songs and if we have enaugh time, we
always try to put a great old song to
our live-set. Interesting for the fans and
also for us.
How do you see the role of CUSTARD
to the current metal scene? As we
are witnessing the period where
internet is probably the most quick
and reliable way to reach new fans,
do you think that this fact will
positive effects to the band in the
following years?
Well, I am sure that every long-term-
metal-fan who listens to power metal
knows our name at least. For sure we
are not playing the champions league
and earn shitloads of money with the
band, but we feel very comfortable in
this situation. We can play a load of
shows each year, but we do not have to
play. There is no pressure from label or
managements- we are free to do what we
want and when we want do it. But when
we do something, then with all power
and heart and without compromises. For
the internet-stuff there are two hearts
beating in my chest. It is really great
to have an easy communication with
the fans by using networking, email
and bring news and features to our
website and forum. Even people in the
the woods of Brazil sometimes drop us a
line “hey, great band great tunes, great
to know your stuff now” ... fantastic. On
the other hand the metal-scene is not
longer a “brotherhood” like i felt it back
in the 90´s or earlier. It is more open
now so there came in a lot of influences
from other styles and devided the
“metalheads” into metalcore, grindcore,
death, black,... something-guys, and
all of them have an own “scene”. Also
the download-piracy is crap. Surf the
web and hunt for good music is great,
listen to it at myspace or youtube or...
somewhere is brilliant. But if you like
it then move your ass to the store and
buy the album, damned ! As a future-
view: someday the giants of metal
(like METALLICA, IRON MAIDEN,...)
will be no more, that is true. There is
no “second row” in metal-music who
can replace them, because there is no
money to push them to the “metal-
olymp”, because of the downloads. So
say goodbye to this kind of “Monsters of
metal” and welcome hundreds of smaller
bands without being real rockstars. This
will definitely kill some metal-spirit.
Do you have the ability to play live
in your area or not? Which was the
best and the worst live experience
that you have witnessed through
the years?
Yepp, we have quite enaugh clubs
and concert-locations around the area
where we live. But this is one of the
biggest metropolis here in Germany.
There is definitely a lack of possibillities
for live shows in most areas. It is always
great to play in front of a few thousand
metalheads, so I should name the big
festivals we played- like Wacken Open
Air or Rock Hard Open Air as great
experiences. I also like the 2006 Tour
together with SABATON. We shared a
nightliner and we had real great nonstop
party for about two weeks. Also the
busdriver said “that is un-believable, i
have never seen this before”- and i think
he have seen hundreds of bands touring.
Awesome! For sure one of the worst
experience was a tour with GODDESS
OF DESIRE back in 1998. We were on
the road with two nightliners and the
organizer did not pay the bus-company-
so the drivers got the order “leave the
bands somewhere and come back”- and
we were about 600 kilometers from
home, it was after midnight and it was
snowing. Man, that was no fun- but a
-11-
thing to remember... Rock´n Roll !
Many people still believe that music
and as a matter of fact heavy metal
will return to its’ purity and initial
songwriting despite the trends that
come and go… Is there a possibility
for your style of music to gain the
success that once reached in the
mid 90’s?
As I told before, i think that there will not
be some giants like we have today. They
all started out in the 90´s or earlier, as
there was a load of money to grab for
the labels and bands. It was new and
it was interesting. If you play kind of
“traditional” metal like we do it is not
new- not “different” enaugh. You can
not shock your parents with this stuff.
So especially this traditional styles will
come back to its purity more and more.
If once all the whatever...core-guys are
boared and gone away, there will be a
great metal-scene left. And maybe the
“brotherhood” will be back. But that is
only my hope, we will see.
Which will be the next step for
CUSTARD? Did you write any new
material yet and can you give us a
couple of indications about when
it will be recorded, the style of the
songs etc?
Yes, we are doing some new stuff right
now. We have a very open schedule
for our liveshows this year- maybe we
will do a smaller tour in September
just before the two confirmed shows
in Switzerland. Also we will play some
festivals here in Germany just to keep
the wheel turning. I hope we can start
the recordings in November, but nothing
is scheduled so far. For sure we will keep
our trademarks, but I think the attitude
will move a bit to a more positive feeling-
not so dark like the “Forces Remain”
theme is. So our challenge is to bring
together the power of “Forces Remain”
with the positive feeling of “For my
King”. First results are very promising !
Thank you so much for your
answers and time, I wish you from
heart all the best for the future! Any
last comments before we close the
interview?
I know I talked too much, sorry man.
But as you see i like the people to take a
look inside the world of CUSTARD... I am
really looking forward to get our asses
on a stage in Greece and check out the
audience over there. All readers: Check
out our website, join our community,
drop us a line and, most important:
Stay metal!
Gregory Baxevanidis
www.custard.de
Discography:
“Signa Inferre” demo-CD,
(Private, 1992)
“God of Storm” mini-CD,
(Private, 1996)
“Kingdoms of your Life” CD
(Twin Records, 1999)
“For my King” CD,
(B.O., 2000)
“Wheels of Time” CD
(Mausoleum, 2005)
“Forces Remain” CD
(Dr.Music, 2008)

After seven years of silence,
Hellish War released their
second amazing album “Heroes
of Tomorrow”, while recently
both of their albums were re-
released by Pure Steel Records.
JR (Daniel Job – guitars) and
Daniel Person (drums) give us
all info about the camp of
Hellish War…
First of all, congratulations for your
new record, according to my humble
opinion one of the most pleasant
surprises of the previous year! My first
question is quite obvious: why did it
take you so long to release it?
JR: First, I’d like to say thank you for the
good words about the album. Well it took
so long because we’ve had many obstacles
along the way. One of these obstacles
was our previous record label. They didn’t
had budget to release the album and they
never told us they were broken, they kept
on beating around the bush for five years.
After we solved that problem we decided
to do it as a private release. Which by the
way turned out to be one of the best things
we’ve ever done.
Eight years of absence is quite a long
time especially for an underground
band that must keep the interest of
its fanbase at the highest level! Do
you think that you lost a number of
supporters because of this?
JR: For sure we lost some fans along the
way but we’re gaining many more. Every
concert we do we see and meet new and
old fans. All of them show their support for
the band and for how long some of them
have been waiting for this album to be
released.
You had also a couple of line up
changes during that period… What
had happened and do you feel that the
new one is stronger than ever?
Daniel Person: Yes, we had a couple of line
up changes in 2001, right after the release
of our debut album. That happens because
sometimes people got their focus in other
stuffs. They don’t really wanna to do metal
music, or record an album or tour as a
bunch of crazy motherf…. Or they just don’t
have the time or devotion for the band. As
for our current line up I can say it’s the
strongest ever. We’ve been together for
nine years without any changes now and
that happens to be while we still as an
underground band, with all the difficulties
we’ve been through. Everybody in this
band wants the same, tour around the
world and record great metal albums.
The new cd has a more melodic approach
comparing to its predecessor… It was
a natural evolution of the band or you
wanted to begin a new chapter to the
history of HELLISH WAR?
JR: It really was a natural thing. We
don’t sit together and say ‘Hey, let’s
change our sound’. We sit down and
start writing songs. In the end of the
day we’ll see what we’ve done and if
it’s fitting in the HELLISH WAR style.
If all that’s OK, we got a new tune for
an album.
Daniel Person: I think that the main
elements that identify HELLISH WAR songs
can be easily found on both albums, even
with the gap of seven years between the
two releases. This means that it has been
a natural evolution indeed, but the band
hasn’t changed much, definitely; and I
think this is good! We have only grown
technically and artistically, but the classic
heavy metal style remains the same.
Can you give us a few details about the
recording sessions and the production
as well? Any funny moments you want
to share with us?
Daniel Person: Although we went to
the studio with all the songs of “Heroes
of Tomorrow” entirely composed, new
ideas were also brought to life during
the recording sessions. The chorus
from the song “Awaken”, for example,
was completely changed on the last
minutes of the recording sessions. Many
arrangements were improved while we
were in the studio. And man, there were
many funny moments! It can’t be different
when you lock a bunch of crazy metalheads
inside a recording room! One day, we were
searching for a cool effect to be added in
one of the songs, but we did not want to
use any of the existing samples that were
available… Then we went to the kitchen
of the studio and searched for anything
that could be used and that could result
on the cool effect we were searching for…
Suddenly someone found two huge pieces
of wood (what kind of people keeps these
things in the kitchen??) and we realized
that this was exactly what we were
searching for. You probably won’t even
notice, but those giant wood pieces were
used during the recordings of the song
“Son of the King”!!!
Are you satisfied by the sales and the
reaction of fans and related press up
to now?
Daniel Person: Yes, definitely. We know
that nowadays the sales of cds are very
low if compared with ten years ago, due
to the internet downloads. Therefore, the
main indicator of the success of our new
album is in fact the reaction of the fans
and the support we’re having from the
press. Here in Brazil, for example, “Heroes
of Tomorrow” was considered one of the
best 2008 releases by public votes on the
biggest rock/metal press vehicles, such
as Roadie Crew Magazine and Whiplash
website. Our first European tour in
September of 2009 is also a result of this
work.
Which are the bands and artists that
influenced your music and way of
playing the most?
JR: There are many bands but I’ll list some
of them: HELLOWEEN, IRON MAIDEN,
RUNNING WILD, ACCEPT, SAXON, etc.
Most of the bands from the 80s era.
HELLISH WAR, HIBRIA, DOMINUS
PRAELLI and STEEL WARRIOR are for
my taste the most attractive heavy/
power metal bands Brazil had offered
the last decade… How is the current
situation of the local scene?
Daniel Person: I totally agree with you on
the bands you’ve mentioned! Although
there are many great bands here in Brazil,
currently there isn’t much support for the
metal scene. The situation isn’t easy, even
for well known bands such as ANGRA or
SHAMAN. On June 2009, we played on
the Roça n Roll festival, which is currently
one of the biggest metal festivals that
we have on Brazil, where KRISIUN were
the headliners. So as you can understand
we’re grabbing on the chances available
around here, but right now or goal is to
tour as much as we can in other countries,
especially in Europe. We hope that our
European tour of this year will be only the
first one from many others that will come.
-12-
Do you have the ability to play live in
your area or not? Which was the best
and the worst live experience that you
have witnessed through the years?
Daniel Person: I believe our best live shows
around here were as the opening act for
SAXON and U.D.O.! Those were great
experiences, as we’ve grown up listening
to these 80’s metal giants. About the worst
live experience… well, let me think… we’ve
surely done some shows for a “crowd” of
four people throughout these years, it can
happen sometimes!
Which are the future plans for HELLISH
WAR? Have you ever played in front of
the European audience?
Well, we already have a scheduled tour
around Europe. It’s gonna happen in
September ‘09. Unfortunately I think
we’re not gonna be able to hit down on
Greece but we’ll do Germany, Holland,
Belgium, Switzerland and we got a couple
of countries not already confirmed. After
this tour we’ll have a new studio album
and a possible live DVD from this tour. By
the way we named this tour as “European
First Assault Tour ‘09”.
I would like to ask your opinion
about the resurrection of bands from
the glorious 80’s that seek a second
chance to the new millennium… Is
there still space for them to reach
success even if the current situation
doesn’t seem to be the appropriate for
underrated giants of the past?
JR: If it’s done for the pleasure and the
music, yes I think they gonna triumph
again. But when it comes down only for the
money, most of them gonna go down the
well. There’s space for new bands and old
bands. Everyone has its place underneath
the sun, you just gotta look for it. The
metal maniacs are out there just waiting
for good music and good bands.
Thank you very much for your time…
The last words belong to you…
JR: First of all, thank you very much!!!
Thanks to all of our fans and the ones
who will become fan of Hellish War!!!
September ‘09 we hope to see all of you
crazy as hell motherf… out there. We’ll
hit the European road and headbang
with all of you metal maniacs!!
Gregory Baxevanidis
Discography:
“Defender of Metal” CD
(Megahard, 2001)
“Heroes of Tomorrow” CD
(Private, 2008)
“Defender of Metal” /
“Heroes of Tomorrow” DCD
(Pure Steel, 2009)

Brazilian heavy/power metal since the days of VIPER
was extremely appealing to European fans… The years
have passed by and the local scene made giant steps…
If you don’t believe our words you haven’t probably
checked the efforts of STEEL WARRIOR, DOMINUS
PRAELLI and HELLISH WAR among others… HIBRIA’s
second superb album comes to prove that they finally
surpassed all the difficulties that stood at their way
and unleashed a bunch of songs that will satisfy every
devoted headbanger! Guitarist Abel Camargo unveils
the magic recipe…
First of all congratulations for your
magnificent “The Skull Collectors”
album! It was a real blast for most
of us that we were waiting HIBRIA’s
comeback… Your first thoughts
about it?
Thanks a lot! We feel really glad that
our new album has reached such a
great feedback, both by the media and
audience.
Why did it get so long to release
a new album? It seemed that by
the release of “Defying the Rules”
everything was going perfect for
the band and then… silence.
Well, the compositions of the “The Skull
Collectors” took much longer than we
expected. We wanted to release it faster,
but due to time constraints it was not
possible. Besides that, our aim was to
release a killer album, not just another
one and that it does take time… We’ve
done our best to offer the audience
something worth.
I truly believe that “The Skull
Collectors” is even better compared
with its predecessor in many
aspects… First of all the structure of
the compositions are much tighter
and powerful than before! Which
one of you is the main composer?
Once again, thanks a lot! We agree with
you. Our intention was to keep all the
elements we liked in “Defying the Rules”
and add new influences to the new one.
In short, we wanted the new cd to be
better than the previous one. Everybody
in the band composes, but it was Diego
who contributed the most to “The Skull
Collectors”, although all members have
done their best contributions to the
album. HIBRIA doesn’t have just one
composer, but five, and I guess it makes
a huge difference comparing to other
bands which usually have one or two
composers. It means that HIBRIA is the
balance of five heavy metal fans melted
into a blasting rage of power.
The production, mixing and the
mastering as well are reaching
the highest level! Was the helping
hand of Achim Kohler one of the
main reasons of this massive
improvement?
Achim has done a great job on “The
Skull Collectors”, but it was the band
that improved a lot as composers and
musicians since the release of DTR.
The production was in charge of Diego
and Marco, not Achim. They took care
of every little detail and it made all the
difference.
One of the things that surprised me
most was the fabulous guitar work
by you and Diego as well that are
leading wisely HIBRIA’s sound to
fields of perfection… How significant
is for a band to have in its’ line up
musicians with skills and technique
that at the same time pay attention
to the feeling of the compositions
making the overall result more
attractive to the fans?
WOW! Really kind of you! Thanks a lot!
Well, before being musicians we are heavy
metal fans and we do know how boring
it is to have all those endless shredding
guitar solos on the compositions, so we
avoid doing that. For us, melodies come
first, then we try to add some technical
elements that may work properly with
the melodies. In short, first the music,
then the musicians.
Can you give us a few details
concerning the cover artwork
and the lyrical concept of the new
album? Any metaphorical messages
you want to express through them?
The cover artwork was designed and
executed by Diego based on Marco’s
lyrics. They worked together on the
concept of “The Skull Collectors’. The
main theme on the album is about anger
and revenge and how we deal with
them in our lives... if we´re part of the
ones who keep spreading the violence
received, or if we are able to forgive and
not let them keep going.
How is the response of the related
press and fans to the new stuff?
It’s been definitely great! Both the
media and audience have shown their
support towards the band. We have
received many messages through our
guestbook, mail and myspace. Also,
the audience in our concerts have been
bigger and bigger.
The musical style of the band brings
forth the influences that you have
from the European power metal
scene and especially the German
one… Which artists and bands have
inspired your way of composing?
We have influences from both sides, the
European and the American one. We
keep listening to our old influences such
as IRON MAIDEN, METALLICA, JUDAS
PRIEST, BLACK SABBATH, although
we have listened to many other bands
nowadays such as SOILWORK, ARCH
ENEMY, NEVERMORE…
HIBRIA along with HELLISH WAR,
DOMINUS PRAELLI and STEEL
WARRIOR are for my taste the most
attractive heavy/power metal bands
Brazil had offered the last decade…
How is the current situation of the
local scene and what do you think
of the aforementioned bands?
Thank you! We know Hellish War
just by name. DOMINUS PRAELLI and
STEEL WARRIOR have shared the stage
with us, and they are mighty warriors.
We have many cool bands in Brazil that
haven’t had the chance to spread their
music yet, but I guess it’s only a matter
of time. If you guys want to know a
little bit of the music made in our town,
check these bands out. Their fucking
-13-
great! DISTRAUGHT, MAGICIAN, THE
ORDHER.
You’ve played a couple of shows in
the past in Europe so I’d like your
opinion about the European fans and
the difference between them and
the metal fans of your country…
Both audiences are cool. I believe that
the main difference is the way they
participate in the concerts. The Brazilian
audience tends to bang their heads
more and sing along with the band than
the European, but I believe that the
European audience pay more attention
to the way the musicians play.
I would like to ask your opinion
about the resurrection of bands from
the glorious 80’s that seek a second
chance to the new millennium… Is
there still space for them to reach
success even if the current situation
doesn’t seem to be the appropriate
for underrated giants of the past?
If they compose good stuff, yes.
Otherwise, they will be just one more
band living from the past trying to show
how important they were in the old
times.
What can we expect from HIBRIA
in the near future? Any chance
to see you in Greece or in various
European festivals such as Keep
it true, Headbanger’s open air or
Swordbrothers?
We’ve just toured Asia and Canada, and
our intention was to tour Europe, too,
but unfortunately it was not possible
this time. We do hope to have a chance
to tour Europe soon to show our music
live.
Thank you so much for your time…
The last words belong to you…
We’d like to thank you and Greek fans
for the support. It’s been a pleasure
answering your questions. We hope to
see you soon in a HIBRIA’s concert in
Greece! A big headbang from HIBRIA!
Gregory Baxevanidis
DISCOGRAPHY:
“Metal Heart” Demo
(Private, 1997)
“Against the Faceless” Demo
(Private, 1999)
“Steel Lord on Wheels” CD-Single
(Private, 2001)
“Defying the Rules” CD
(Remedy, 2004)
“The Skull Collectors” CD
(Remedy, 2009)
www.hibria.com www.myspace.com/hibria
 Heathens’ Rage Unleashed!
STORRMBRINGER is a new band from Hellas dedicated to deliver pure Epic Power Metal!
They have already shown their teeth to the world, as their appearance last year at Up The
Hammers festival was really massive! Recently, their debut album was released by Eat Metal
Records and it is devastating, a true masterpiece of 80s US style Power / Epic Metal! We asked
Tasos (drummer and fan of Naughty America!) a few questions– let’s see what he has to say!
Please give us a short bio of the
band.
STORRMBRINGER were formed back
in summer of 2006 by three friends:
Tryfonas (vocals), Jim (guitar) and me
(Tasos - drums) who wanted to play the
music they adored!!! Long before this,
Jim used to compose whole songs all
alone and Tryfonas used to write lyrics
and in the very first rehearsal we had our
first song almost ready!!! We played as
a trio for something like a year and then
Kostas (bass) entered STORRMBRINGER
and also for one year of rehearsing
passed before we recorded our debut
album which released in November
2009 by Eat Metal Records!!!!
Your debut cd was recently released
by Eat Metal. How is it going? Are
you happy from the early feedback
you have received from fans and
press?
We don’t know about the sales but
Greg told us it is going really great!!!
We have received very good and
encouraging comments from fans!!!
As far the press is concerned, we have
seen only two reviews from webzines
so far, and musically they considered
our cd just good but nothing special.
They also considered the production
bad or average but in this subject we
disagree!! Nevermind, everyone has
its own opinion! We hope to get better
reviews in the future!!
How would you describe your music
style and why did you choose to
play this specific style?
We play epic heavy metal!!! Our
influences are from the classic 80ies
metal scene, especially Iron Maiden and
US Power / Epic Metal!!! We chose this
specific style because we are all fans of
this style!! This is obvious!!
Is there any specific reason you
formed STORRMBRINGER? What
would you like to achieve? What is
your biggest dream as far the band
concerns?
We formed this band to express ourselves
and our interest in music!!! We have
achieved our goals!! We play the music
we like, write new songs and this satisfy
us!! The gigs we have played and the
release of the album were dreams for
us… and now these dreams are reality -
so we are extremely happy!! We would
like to keep doing these things: concerts
and to release a second album in the
near future!!!
What is the lyrical background of
your songs?
Our lyrical background: history and
mythology of our fatherland and
generally of Europe, and also fantasy
themes!!!
Last year, you took part at Up The
Hammers festival. What were your
impressions?
It’s really hard to describe these feelings
with words!! We shared the stage
with some of the greatest bands in
underground metal who are also favorite
bands of ours!! The greatest moment
for which we are proud is when we
finished our sound check, members of
Titan Force (hail!!!) were clapping their
hands and gave us great comments!!!
What an honor for us…
What do you think about festivals
like Up The Hammers?
It’s great that festivals like U.T.H. take
place, they promote true metal and
young bands!!! U.T.H. fest gets better
year after year and we totally support
it!!! It’s like Hellas’ Keep It True fest!!!
Congratulations to Manolis for his
work!!!
Which are your favorite bands?
Moreover, what’s your opinion
about the following: SAVAGE GRACE,
WARLORD, SLAUTER XSTROYES,
WRATHBLADE, JAG PANZER,
HELSTAR?
Our favourite bands (as the whole band
concerns) are Manowar, Iron Maiden,
Accept and Warlord. For the bands you
mention: Helstar, Savage Grace and Jag
Panzer are three of my favourite and
also in my opinion, some of the greatest
power metal bands!! TOTALLY GODS!!!
-14-
From Slauter Xstroyes I have listened
only one song (and like it) and I can’t
express a serious opinion for them!!!
For Warlord I already answered and
finally Wrathblade is one of the greatest
Hellenic bands nowadays along with
some others!!! I have seen them live 3
or 4 times and they offered me endless
metal pleasure and headbanging
mania!!! I am waiting for their full
album, the 7inch single is not enough!!!
Greetings to Christos(guitar)!!
What are your next plans?
What should we expect from
STORRMBRINGER in the near
future?
Surely you can expect a second album
in the same direction as the debut (we
have some new songs and a lot ideas)
- maybe with more US Power Metal
elements!!! We also hope to do more
live shows with other comrades from
Hellenic metal scene!!!!
Thank you very much for your time.
The last lines are yours. Any final
comments?
We would like to thank you for this
interview!! We would also like to thank:
Eat Metal records, Earcry studio, Antonis
Papachristos, and all the fans and ‘zines
that were cool to us!!! For the readers:
buy our cd!!! Hahahahaha!!! Keep the
faith!! HEAVY METAL TO THE FUCKIN’
END!!! HAILZ!!
Antonis Adamakos
Web: www.myspace.com/storrmbringer
Discography:
Promo CD
(Private, 2008)
Among the Flames of War CD
(Eat Metal, 2008)
 Steel for an Age
This is a standard column to all Heavy Metal fanzines, as standard as the reviews I would say. What’s new?
Nothing I would say. Nowadays almost everything is one-click away, rare albums that years back you should
wait for months to just listen to are available for download. This sudden “ex plosion” of information led to a
contradictory phenomenon (among others). Nowadays PARADOXX and MILITIA may be more known to the
average underground fan than DAMIEN THORNE or DAMMAJ.

So, our main intention will be to present known but underrated albums (I think that the comparison above gives
away how we shall move from now on), but on the other hand we will do our best to present very unknown
releases, be it LP, CD or demo with the only criteria being the musical value and not the rarity (maybe in a “Rare
Trash pt.II” column???). We leave the latter to people that know prices, number of copies and matrix numbers
better than the actual music, staying “still sealed” (and you know what may happen if a LP stays sealed for many
years…) in their world. We hope you enjoy this effort and we promise to come up with even better material for
the next issue. All feedback is welcomed.

When most people see the words “Germany” and “Power Metal” in the same sentence they immediately think
of HELLOWEEN and the thousands of bands their success in the 80’s created. This is not the case though. In the
90’s there were lots of bands that played Power Metal with emphasis on the “power” element, that unfortunately
not only disbanded but do not even enjoy the “cult” status many of their (active or not) colleagues do. German
Metal was chosen (apart from the above reason) because we feel that it had the strongest scene in Europe in
the 90’s, both in terms of quality/quantity but also because it produced great albums by mainstream as well as
underground acts. So in the end our first effort took the shape of a “90’s German Metal special” and in fact a “CD
special” (2 of the albums are also available on vinyl), something done on purpose on the end. Put on one of the
albums below in your stereos and enjoy the following pages!
Kostas Kailiazis

Ps. From these lines I would like to thank Matthias Wulf for introducing me to great underground German Metal
bands and thus making me looking further the German Metal scene the last few years.

ATTACK-Seven years in the Past-CD

(Iceland, 1992)
ATTACK was a Legend for European Epic Metal and in my humble opinion along with HEAVY LOAD
the most appropriate answer to those that believed that this genre was exclusively a US affair.
The works of Ricky van Helden (vocals, bass, guitar, drums, keys and flute in the particular CD!)
is huge and can’t be appreciated through a few lines. “Seven years in the Past” impresses from
the first sight, where they present us with one of their best covers. But also the 10 tracks that
compromise this CD are not behind…Starting with “In the Gloom”, where in something more than
three minutes we taste the band’s thirst for real Steel! From then, come Masterpieces that only
Attack could compose. “Seven Years in the Past”, “The Fighter” (Epic!), “On the Run” (Power/
Speed holocaust!), “Never Die”, “Indian Lady”…Too many words are poor in order to describe the
Majesty of this release, that as the rest of their discography deserves a place in the collections of
Epic Metal warriors! The ATTACK chapter is one of the brightest in the history of European Metal
and we hope that someday in the future we will return with a big and complete tribute on these
great Germans.
Greg Baxevanidis

BUCKSHOT - The Sword’s Tale CD

(Private, 1997)
This is kind of a weird case of a band, at least weird to me. Not apparently due to the obscurity of
their sound (there are bands with much more obscure sound out there),but mainly cause of the
low popularity they have, since they were never the “talk of the town” sort of band (always talking
about local metal circles), nor have I heard anyone praising (or depreciating) them anywhere.
BUCKSHOT is a band drifting around the scene since 1981,releasing 7 albums in total (maybe
an 8th one came out the recent years), all in CD format (one live CD among them), with the
first being released in 1995 and the last in 2006 on their own private label. This review is about
their second CD, “The Sword’s Tale”. Divided into 5 parts, they managed to compose a concept
album of pure heaviest metal with rough vocals, simple-structured songs and fantasy lyrics. The
story is a nice approach of how man can be a lethal weapon himself, starting his process of self
elimination with the use of steel, until he ingeniously evolved and developed mass destruction
equipment (bloody gunpowder!!) and abused it. The content of this album can leave the audience

-15-
astounded, with brilliant instrumentation despite the simplicity of the song structure, with the
successful use of metal accompanying instruments such as the flute and bagpipes. What is the
result? A journey in a fantasy world where heroes rode on horseback and the strongest steel
would rule! YES, back in the glorious medieval times! You couldn’t describe it as pure Epic Metal,
but the general atmosphere met in here is simple amazing, galloping at times, mid paced at
others, yet heavier than Charles Barkley’s ass!!! What I loved in this CD is the fact that although
the production can reveal the recording time in a way, they could sound as 80’s as CIRITH UNGOL
would, if they had recorded their first 2 LP’s during the 90’s. Not the typical German Metal, but
also not CIRITH UNGOL’S European subsidiary, not to be misunderstood. All in all, a worthwhile
release that would make you not regret every single cent you have spent on it. Give them a
chance, just because these old muthas made it till today loyal to their beliefs without giving up.
That’s the spirit, support the underground.
Thanos Stafylarakis

CASTLE WELL - Helpless, CD

(Private, 1997)
Bands like CASTLE WELL exist no more in our times. I am not living in the past and I am of
the opinion that in every decade, Heavy Metal had/has its own Heroes, the bands that served
it from their own position. CASTLE WELL should justly feel hard done by, despite the fact that
they didn’t make such a big impact in the 90’s underground scene. At least not with mainstream
standards! The fact that the band had a very big number of demo releases from the late 80’s
but only managed to release its debut CD in 1997 seems like a huge achievement. “Helpless” is
the quintessence of German Metal. Not power, not speed, just Classic Metal the way we loved it
in the 80’s from their compatriots, but also from the British bands. CASTLE WELL are not THE
musicians, their purpose was to create honest, full of passion Heavy Metal as it can be heard in
“Win or Lose”, “He comes Alive”, “Attila” (bone-breaking instrumental!), “At Dawn”, “Life is a long
hard fight”, “2020” with lyrics that speak directly to the heart. CASTLE WELL was a true revelation
for Real Heavy Metal, all the while giving an answer as to how the Metal Giant should live eternally.
Seven years later they gave us the exceptional “Back for Revenge” that unfortunately passed
unnoticed by everyone. All Hail!
Greg Baxevanidis

COURT JESTER - Forced II Believe, CD

(Alister, 1996)
I remember this CD getting excellent reviews here in Greece (and not only). This, combined
with the fact that the description of the vocals was “like Jon Kimball from OMEN”, made me
want to get this CD, which I finally had the chance to do some years ago. Well, I can’t say that
I was disappointed, but it was not THE CD, that I had read and heard about. Great Mid-tempo
Power Metal (with a small progressive touch) with brilliant vocals (yes, Chitral Somapala, later on
AVALON among others, sounds a lot like Kimball-RIP), a very good production and great guitars is
what you will get in “Forced II Believe”. Maybe it’s the comments that I had heard/read that (even
today) prevent me from appreciating this CD with the same passion that most people I know do.
I never had the chance to listen to the band’s debut CD, so I can not comment on it. A worthy
addition to any collection.
Kostas Kailiazis

DECEIVER-Tales of Time, (LP, 1991/CD, 1994)

(D&S Recording, 1991/Battery, 1994)
DECEIVER also had two demos prior to this release (“Deceiver” and “Nightmare”-both in 1989),
which unfortunately I haven’t heard (well, all songs of the second demo later appeared on the
LP). The album has one (but very important) drawback. The production is very “thin”, resulting
in a weak sound. But, songs like “Destination Unknown”, “Children of the Storm”, “Tales of Time”
etc. will more than make up for this. Power/Speed Metal the German way with lots of melody,
both in the vocals and the guitars, sometimes bringing to mind CROWS, whose only LP was
released the same year. The band consisted of very skillful musicians, something very evident
in all compositions. The band incorporates (I am pretty sure as a tribute) a part of “Waiting
for 22” (QUEENSRYCHE) on the beginning of “Silent Scream”, another killer track by the way.
HEAVENWARD are included in the band’s thank-list and I don’t dare to think that these two bands
shared the stage together; it would be a dream for me. The band disappeared and no member
participated in a band (at least that I know of), leaving us only this album. Fans of German Power
Metal, this is essential, heed my words. One of the best albums for the genre, it’s a crime, that
this release has been neglected by Metal maniacs. I guess, it’s never too late, right?
Kostas Kailiazis

EMBARGO - The Red Tide CD

(D&S Recording, 1997)
In 1997, EMBARGO gave us their third album that proved to be their swansong. Another case of a
great Teutonic Speed/Power Metal band that left us early, but not without a great legacy, 3 CD’s
that they justly placed them in the elite of the genre. “Panem et Circenses” (1992) and “Children
of a lesser God” (1994) had paved the way, so when “The Red Tide” was released, many people
believed that these stubborn Germans would be in position to present to us even better material,
but the end of the band, denied us of this opportunity. It’s a real shame that Embargo were lost
like this and even more that the bands’ name doesn’t even ring a bell in today’s Metallers. But how
can we forget Speed Metal hymns like “The Red Tide”, “Find, hit and Kill”, “My Battle”, “Mary”, mid
tempo Epics like “Lies”, “The true Face of Love” or a excellent ballad like “Lies”? May they be well
wherever they are, we will always remember their dedication in Heavy Metal!

Greg Baxevanidis

-16-
FERNGULLY - Tunnel Visions, mini-CD
(Gullywood, 1995)
FERNGULLY was formed when singer Oliver Hohendorff left PILLOW KILLZ (another great 90’s
act!). “Tunnel Visions” was their first CD, released from their own label, Gullywood. If someone
overlooks the cover will find himself facing a Power Metal storm that will shake him for good. This
mini-CD includes 6 songs (plus an intro) of great Speed/Power Metal that will please all German
Metal enthusiasts. Hard to pick favorite songs from such a release that I consider it to be one of
the best and most recommended CD’s in the column. Special mention to “Living from the Past”,
one of the best songs I have ever listened to, a real gem that would force big bands to commit
suicide had they ever listened to it! The band has released another CD after this one (“Slave”,
2001), which I haven’t heard and after that took a very long pause. But nowadays they are
working on their website and seem determined to return. Let’s hope that their return (if and when
it’s made) will live up to the name they managed to build.
Kostas Kailiazis

FLYING SKULL-Revelation, CD
(Private, 1993)
One of my favorite German bands, after their very good debut, “Darkness” (and a participation
in the “Metal Hour volume 5” compilation LP back in 1987) decided to work hard and release
a follow-up that would live to the expectations of the name they had begun to establish in the
underground circles of their country (and not only…). “Revelation” was the peak of the short lived
“career” of the band that after this CD remained only in the minds of the incurably romantics. The
production was better, the tracks more worked and despite their length they didn’t tire at all. One
of their biggest advantages proved to be Achim Nohl’s singing, who could be compared with Ricky
van Helden’s! But also the band’s music had elements of Ricky’s band, ATTACK. The 10 minute
long “Forgotten World (Genesis)” that opens the CD, situates the listener in the album’s spirit,
“Red Death” nods to early STORMWITCH (with its basic riff bringing to mind ΕΞΟΡΙΣΤΟΙ), while
the triad of killer tracks closes with “Take my Hand”, which (as all their tracks) is characterized by
very clever rhythm changes, proving that FLYING SKULL were no random musicians. Traditional
Heavy Metal with vision and prospect, which “failed” to continue in the years to come, but “forced”
us to love it!
Greg Baxevanidis

HEAVENWARD - Within these Dreams, CD/LP

(D&S Recording, 1991)
I am under the impression, that mostly progressive fans must be into this band and mainly their
second album, “A Future worth talking about?” (1992, Inline Music). I rarely listen to people
mentioning this album, which is a shame for me, as in my humble opinion; “Within these Dreams”
is a Power Metal Masterpiece! 8 songs are included, full of great vocals (courtesy of Stefan Kessel),
very clever rhythm changes and excellent guitars shining in riffs and solos. I would say the band’s
music is closer to US Power Metal, while still having elements that “betray” their origin like on
“At first Nature…” or “Holding the Key” for example. A great and balanced blend between the
two “schools” (US and European) of Power Metal if you ask me with an added progressive touch
in the arrangements. I hardly distinguish “The Sky” (the opening track-what a riff!), “Dreams
in Disguise” and “Within these Dreams” as the best tracks. This album is not expensive, nor
extremely difficult to come by. So, next time you see this wonderful cover, do yourselves a favor
and buy it at once, I am sure that you won’t regret it. Another band that has been active again, I
really hope that any new recordings will be in the vein of “Within these Dreams”.
Kostas Kailiazis

Ps. we decided to publish the details on each different “pressing” of the album, since there is a
certain collectors’ interest on both the band and the label (D&S Recording.). These are:
1. DSR CD 10004: 1st edition: album title with small letters, 8 page booklet with lyrics, last page
of the booklet is white, Inline distribution, silver CD without print.
2. DSR CD 10004: 2nd edition: like the 1st, print on CD, last page of the booklet is white.
3. DSR CD 10004: 3rd edition: like the 2nd, last page of the booklet is blue.
4. DSR CD 10004: 4th edition: album title with larger letters, 2 page insert, Long Island distribution,
black CD with silver print.
5. D&S 318-0024-1: LP version with lyrics (the last known LP that D&S issued)

LIGHTMARE - The Fool, CD

(D&S Recording, 1997)
One of the most peculiar bands presented here, LIGHTMARE, as well as SEVENTH AVENUE, have
chosen to have Christian lyrics their Power Metal music, in a time that was not very fond of such
attempts. Not that many things have changed now, but…Some may claim that they restricted
their audience with this move, the truth is that “The Fool” had the magic touch its creators wanted
to give to it. Their music was a musical amalgam of dynamic Power Metal, symphonic parts
but also melancholic/melodic moments that instantly raised interest. Songs like “Terrion”, “Call
from Solitude”, “The One”, “My slowly dying”, “Dungeons of Society” are representative of their
style, it’s “Rebellion” though one of the reasons that whoever listened to this CD, got addicted
immediately. After “The Fool”, some line-up changes took place, as well as some participations
in side-projects, but despite this, LIGHTMARE still perform live once in a while in Germany. Let’s
hope that they will think very seriously to gather in the studio and the record the heir to “The
Fool”.
Greg Baxevanidis

-17-
MORBID JESTER - Irony of Fate, CD
(Private, 1996)
Another very interesting case of Teutonic Metal is MORBID JESTER, a band with three very
significant CD’s, and a sound-tribute to Real Heavy Metal! They didn’t hesitate to incorporate
elements and breaks that improved songs that were a step below from the rest. Very capable
songwriters, they knew how to avoid repetition and they didn’t release “copy-paste” stuff, like
some others colleagues of theirs! Their second CD, “Irony of Fate”, is not the most representative
sample of 90’s German Metal, but it will be mentioned as an honest recording of a band that
wanted to play what it felt and never cared about selling lots of copies. Listen among others to “So
Tired”, “Desert in the Rain” (with its very caustic lyrics), “Why Him” and the more melodic “The
Defendant” and maybe you will discover a band matching your tastes and (more importantly) a
band having personality, something evident in their entire career.
Greg Baxevanidis

REACTOR - Farewell to Reality, CD

(React, 1995)
Bavarians REACTOR released their first CD in 1991 (“Rather dead than Dishonoured”) and they
quickly established themselves as one of the most hopeful Speed/Power bands of their country!
They had big success in Japan, one of the reasons being this CD, which in fact is one of the band’s
best releases. By hiring S.L. Coe (SCANNER, ANGEL DUST) on vocals and with their (mostly) up-
tempo rhythms, the furious guitars and Coe’s high pitched vocals they set out for the big move.
“Farewell to Reality” is one of these albums, that even 15 years later sounds as fresh as it was
released yesterday. The band’s performance is in very high levels and the listener can only but
admire the inspiration the Germans show us in “Farewell to the Past”, “High price of Passion”,
“When Bosnia Falls”, “U.T.O.P.I.A.”, “Conquer the Past”, “Into Blood and Fire” but also congratulate
them on their “Roadracin’” (RIOT) and “Devil’s Child” (JUDAS PRIEST) covers. If the “alternative”
version of “Living in a Trance” was missing, this CD would be flawless!
Greg Baxevanidis

REAPER - The Years Within, CD

(Mausoleum, 1992)
REAPER is most known I guess for their highly collectable “Fairies Return” EP (Private, 1986), but
less for this CD and their “Beyond all Time” LP (Metal Enterprises, 1990). In fact both the LP and
the CD are better (and much easier to get) in my opinion from the (quite good) EP. “The Years
Within” was released in 1992, includes 9 songs (one of which, the title track is an instrumental)
and has a great production, ideal for this kind of music. The sound of the band hasn’t changed
a bit, great Power Metal, with mostly fast-paced songs. Highlights are “Voices from the Sea”
(with the great riffs, especially in the fast parts), “Lionheart” and the closing track, “Witchhunt”.
Another CD that can be found for a fair price and the most important thing is that it will grant
you hours of Metallic pleasure. The band seems to be active again, so we are anxiously waiting
for further recordings.
Kostas Kailiazis

REPRESSION - Prevalence of Pain, CD

(Private, 1992)
While giving the DECEIVER LP a spin and staring at the insert, I noticed REPRESSION on the
thank-list, so I thought of reviewing their only release that I have heard (which in fact is their
last after a demo in the 80’s and two full-length albums), since the band seems pretty unknown.
The 4/5 of the band (minus the singer) later formed the well-known MESSIAH’S KISS. The CD
includes 11 songs (plus a small interlude) and has a “weird” production, at least in my ears, with
drums sounding detached from the rest of the instruments/band. On the music now. Typical and
average Metal is what you will get with an intense melodic/commercial touch. I can’t say that any
of the songs impressed me, with the exception of “Boys night out”, “River of Tears” and “When
night comes down” that are enjoyable, but again nothing special. It may appeal to some, but I
highly doubt it, as it defines “average”. This CD is limited to 500 copies and very hard to get but
for me it’s a bright example of a CD that didn’t stand the test of time and if it’s talked nowadays
it’s because what the band became later, it’s rarity or as an example to avoid (as it’s the case in
this presentation).
Kostas Kailiazis

SHARATAN, The First Dawn, demo-CD

(Private, 1999)
I was quite skeptical whether to include this CD here, because of its nature (a demo-CD and not
an official release). But the music included made me have no second thoughts. This is the band’s
only release and I still remember the review/interview in Steel Conjuring #3 that “forced” me to
contact the band. Only 5 songs (and an intro), but from the first moment you will listen to “Autumn
Ghost”, the song that follows “Intro”, you will understand that SHARATAN unfortunately disbanded
too early. The band presents us a very diverse CD, as next to the opener “The Autumn Ghost” (an
excellent Power Metal track), “Sundown” (maybe the best track, another mostly fast song) and
“Fortress” (a great mid-tempo track) we find songs like “The Wanderers” (a wonderful ballad) and
“Lost and Forgotten” (the song that ends this CD, a great, mostly acoustic instrumental). From my
point of view, SHARATAN had lots to offer, you can’t go wrong with excellent musicians/composers
and one of the best singers I have heard from Germany. By listening to this demo, I am wondering
how many CD’s like these are yet to be found/, proving once more that the underground was and
will always be a goldmine when it comes to qualitative Heavy Metal.
Kostas Kailiazis

-18-
 CULT METAL CLASSICS
2009-2010 Re-issues
BREAKER - Dead Rider CD
We understand that BREAKER is probably one of the
most common names used by heavy metal bands
throughout the metal history from the 70’s ‘till now.
With the most reputed bands by that name, being
the U.S. and the Canadian BREAKER, here comes
one more KILLER band from Germany this time. In
fact, this BREAKER should have been much more known had metal
fans known that this is the band which one of the biggest German
thrash bands of all time came from....and that band is none other
than ACCUSER! Almost immediately after the release of “Dead Rider”,
the band called it quits and ACCUSED were created. BREAKER play a
blend of powerful 80’s heavy with some speedier arrangements and
they’re definitely worth your money 100%. In fact, they KICK-ASS
big time!
This ultra cool re-issue contains the entire post-BREAKER demo
called “Speed Metal” plus a short story of the band and cool reworked
artwork and photos. Naming the best song is like forcing us to choose
which part of our body we need less, but indubitably stuff like “Rapist
Killer”, “Street Fighter”, “Lucifer’s Dream” and the title-track are 80’s
jewels that we rarely listen to nowadays. So, waste no time and grab
this perfect disc loaded with pure 80’s metal mania. HAIL!
CHAINSAW - Hell’s Burnin’ Up CD
These are the legendary CHAINSAW from Germany.
The band formed in 1984 and their one and only
release so far, the mighty “Hell’s Burnin’ Up” LP
originally released in 1986, remained a lost obscurity
to this day. CULT METAL CLASSICS, came to an
agreement with the band’s former label and with
pride we present you a pure 80’s speed/thrash metal re-issue that
will make your ears bleed and your necks break! Thundering powerful
rhythms and killer songs from start too finish, will get you for good
into the band’s raging atmosphere.
This fine re-issue contains lyrics plus reworked artwork with cool
photos of the band’s past plus 6 bonus songs!!! Do not miss the
chance and grab this flawless edition now. Songs like “Last Fortress”,
“Tombs of the Blind Dead”, “Midnight Hunter” etc. are a total blast
from the past. HAIL!
HUNTER - Sign Of The Hunter CD
We could never understand why a MEGA band like
HUNTER with such a huge potential was rated by
some metal reviewers as commercial heavy metal.
This has NOTHING TO DO with reality. This band is
a simply GRANDIOSE pure 80’s heavy metal offering
that will shock you by how great they are! They
released 2 albums in the 80’s with the one being re-issued here (“Sign
of the Hunter”) having originally been released in 1985, containing
PURE CLASSIC heavy metal of the highest echelon!
This essential re-issue contains their entire RED-BACKS demo (this
is the name by which the band started their short-lived career), plus
a short story of the band and cool photos. It’s hard to tell which is
the best song on the album with killer stuff like “Crusaders of Hell”,
“Magnum 45”, “The Wheels Turn On”, “Revenge” etc. Needless to say
that this re-issue will be among your favorite ones mostly because
HUNTER has always been so low profile and not so well known, unlike
other overrated 80’s bands. Definitely go for this one. It comes with
our highest recommendation. IT CRUSHES!!!
KUBLAI KHAN - Annihilation CD
Words are needless for this classic thrash metal band
and disc that was originally in 1987 and is finally
offered to you again after 22 years. The band hailed
from U.S.A. and they delivered a powerful blend of
technical thrash metal that sounds like a concrete
wall collapsing on your heads! It’s damn heavy with
wild paranoid vocals and edgy riffs and rhythm section.
This re-issue contains remastered sound plus story of the band and
super cool reworked artwork. If you are a speed/thrash metal addict,
-20-
this disc is for you. The original first press on CD sells nowadays for
crazy prices. Grab it for only 13 EURO and taste sheer steel from the
golden 80’s. Stuff like “Down to the Inferno”, “Clash of the Swords”
and “Kublai Khan” will destroy you! HAIL!
OVERDOSE - Tight Action CD
These are the mighty OVERDOSE from Frankfurt.
There are so many metal bands by that name, but
believe us, this is the real deal. By far the best
OVERDOSE we’ve heard of so far. Their only release
in 1985 is a pure metal MASTERPIECE loaded with
killer heavy metal music, with clever arrangements,
cool vocals and fantastic rhythm changes and razor sharp riffs. Of
course, we couldn’t miss on the opportunity to re-issue this bombastic
piece of steel, so here it is for all you metal thirsty freaks!
The re-issue contains a short story of the band, plus their entire
“Heavy Metal” demo as a bonus. Classic songs like “Curse of the
Witch”, “Way in the Dark”, “Touch my Life” etc. will get you on the
floor begging for more. At last!! It was about time to hear killer music
once again. Thank God for OVERDOSE. HAIL!!!
SATANIC RITES - No Use Crying CD
For the first time ever on CD the legendary second
album of the mighty NWOBHM band, SATANIC
RITES. This is the OFFICIAL re-issue of their 1987
classic LP that is hard to find in its original form.
SATANIC RITES started in the early 80’s and released
the classic 7’’ single “Hit and Run / Live to Ride” that
is considered to be one of the best singles of that
time.
Despite the band’s “black metal” name that was inspired by an old
HAMMER movie, they deliver pure traditional heavy metal. “No Use
Crying” features the amazing female singer Deborah Ingham wife of
bass player David Ingham.
What you get in this mindblowing re-issue is the entire full length
album of 1987 remastered from the original source, entire new
artwork, booklet with photos, lyrics and story of the band and above
all 2 never before released bonus songs! This album is a must have
for EVERY NWOBHM devotee and lover of good hard rock and heavy
metal music. Songs like “Woman of Mystery”, “No Use Crying”,
“Changeling” etc. will send you to the metal heaven!
This is a limited collector’s edition, so HURRY UP! THESE MATES
SIMPLY RULE and we are proud for releasing this jewel. HAIL!!
SATANIC RITES - Which Way The
Wind Blows CD
For the first time ever on CD the legendary second
album of the mighty NWOBHM band, SATANIC
RITES. This is the OFFICIAL re-issue of their 1985
classic LP that is hard to find in its original form.
SATANIC RITES started in the early 80’s and released
the classic 7’’ single “Hit and Run / Live to Ride” that is considered to
be one of the best singles of that time.
Despite the band’s “black metal” name that was inspired by an old
HAMMER movie, they deliver pure traditional heavy metal. “Wich Way
The Wind Blows” features the amazing female singer Deborah Ingham
wife of bass player David Ingham.
What you get in this mindblowing re-issue is the entire full length
album of 1985 remastered from the original source, entire new
artwork, booklet with photos, lyrics and story of the band and above
all the entire 2-song single from ‘81, remastered for your listening
pleasure! This album is a must have for EVERY NWOBHM devotee and
lover of good hard rock and heavy metal music. Songs like “Fear of
the Night”, “Law of the Land”, “Feel the Power” or the chilling title-
track will simply tear you into pieces!
This is a limited collector’s edition, so HURRY UP! THESE MATES
SIMPLY RULE and we are proud for releasing this jewel. HAIL!!
Web: www.sonicagerecords.com
Email: sales@sonicagerecords.com
-21-

“Winds from the black mountain,
rend and tear”
I was really astonished when
I firstly listened to Pnakotic
Demos – Epic Doom Metal that
generated the same feelings
and atmosphere as Solstice,
Scald, early Manowar ! Although
Atlantean Kodex is a relatively
new band, they have made serious
buzz in the underground scene
and many fans (including me!)
claim that this is probably the
best band in Germany nowadays!
Manuel was kind enough (and very
quick!) to answer to this small
interview.
Hello! Please present Atlantean
Kodex to our readers.
Hello. We are Atlantean Kodex and we
are alcoholics. We’ve been around for
five years now, playing heavy metal
in the vein of early Manowar, Viking-
era Bathory, Solstice, Manilla Road etc.
We’ve released a couple of EPs and are
going to release our first full length in
2010. This our first trip to Greece. We’re
all in our thirties by now and have been
playing in various local metal bands
since the early 90s.
What has the band been up to
lately? What are your recent news
and activities?
At the moment the main priority is to
record our upcoming full length debut
album, titled “The Golden Bough”.
Currently we’re laying down the vocal
lines. Hopefully we can release it around
June / July. It’s gonna be massive.
Everyone who liked the “Pnakotic
Demos” will be satisfied with the album
as well. We’ve also been playing a couple
of shows, e.g. at the Hammer of Doom
festival alongside Saint Vitus and Keep
it True 12, of course.
You had some line-up problems in
the past. Has anything been stable?
Are you happy with the current
members?
Sure I am. I consider this the perfect
line-up for the band. We’re all heading
in the same direction, the goals are the
same and the atmosphere in the band is
very good. I hope this line-up will last.
How often do you play live? Describe us
also a typical Atlantean Kodex show!
We’re not playing live very often.
Instead, we’re trying to make every
show an unique an memorable event.
The aim is to take the crowd away to
another world. You can expect loads
of epic atmosphere, but also pure
headbanging action. And beer. Lots of
it... Too bad, we’re that ugly. We’d like
to have some chicks in the audience as
well...
You have released some stuff in
micro-quantities (10 or 89 copies).
Why so? Some people find this
frustrating and badly elitist. What is
your opinion? Are you also collectors
of rare records?
What people tend to underestimate are
the costs of producing vinyl releases and
the actual demand for the music we’re
playing. I knew that the live album for
example would appeal only to a very
limited crowd of say 90-100 people. So I
decided to go for a pressing of 90 copies.
In the end I was right. I received about
100 e-mails asking for the album, which
means there are really very few people
who didn’t have the chance to get it. If
I had produced 500 copies, everyone
would have had the chance to get the
album, but I would have lost 2000 Euros
by not having sold the remaining 400
copies. On the other hand I can’t deny
that fucking with the collector mafia,
who think metal is all about owning the
most expensive albums, wasn’t at least
a small part of the plan. I hate it, when
people forget the actual music over the
aspect of OWNING literally every rare
and obscure piece of wax, no matter
how awful the music is. I’m a collector
myself, but I’ll never understand how
grown-up people can sulk and whine
about not getting every vinyl they want.
I also want to have every bit of music
released by Tales of Medusa for instance,
but if I’m not lucky enough to score a
tape or a single, I won’t be “frustrated”
as you call it or go sulking about on some
internet board or whatever. I think this a
very bad development taking place right
now. For the money you spend hunting
for an obscure 80s release by some
irrelevant band you could support 10
young bands of today who are carrying
the torch of true underground metal
into the 2010s. Don’t get me wrong:
like I said, I’m a collector myself, and
there’s nothing that can beat the feeling
of finally receiving the package with
that one rare vinyl you’ve been hunting
for 2 years, but in the end it’s the music
that counts for me and not the quantity
of copies that were pressed.  the power of metal, he bestowed upon
What is your opinion about Up The
Hammers festival? How do you feel
that you are going to participate in
this fest?
It’s a great honour and we’re very proud
about the fact that we were invited
to that great event. Considering the
incredible bills the festival had in the
past few years, I’d say it’s the best
festival in southern Europe. We’re really
honoured to play there. We also hope
to get to see some Greek culture while
we’re in Athens of course.
What do you think about the current
Heavy Metal scene? Any cool band
you listened lately and impressed
you?
Tons of great new bands! Where shall I
start? I have very high hopes for DARK
FOREST from the UK, pure NWOBHM-
style genius. I’ve heard a couple of songs
from the upcoming album and they
absolutely kill. Same goes for STRIKER
from Canada. Awesome musicians and
the music sounds like it’s straight out
of 1985. They’re going to tour Germany
in April and I can’t miss that. In terms
of Doom Metal I’d consider FUNERAL
CIRCLE from Canada as one of the finest
acts. They definitely have the right
attitude. Pure metal, headbanging, beer
and Satan. Compared to all those other
girlie-doom bands, they’re definitely the
real deal.
What is your opinion about the
following: SOLSTICE, DOOMSWORD,
WARLORD, SCALD, BATHORY?
SOLSTICE: One of the best bands
ever. I guess without “New dark age”
-22-
Atlantean Kodex wouldn’t even exist.
DOOMSWORD: Good band,
but I never really got into
Deathmaster’s vocals. Sorry....
WARLORD: One of the main influences
on Atlantean Kodex. Bill Tsamis’
guitar work is incredible. The whole
work of the band is so mystical and
atmospheric. Totally unique. One
of my top five bands of all time.
SCALD: One of the biggest tragedies
for Heavy Metal that the singer took
his life. They had so much talent. I
saw a clip of one of their unreleased
songs on Youtube, recently. Pure magic.
They could have become legends.
BATHORY: Another tragedy. Quorthon
was a genius. Besides “Into glory ride”
and “Crystal logic” Bathory’s “Twilight
of the gods” to me is the definition of
Epic Metal. It’s simply huge, it takes you
away to another world. Mind-blowing
stuff. You can tell from our sound, that
we wouldn’t sound like we do, if Bathory
hadn’t existed. 
What are your next plans and goals
for 2010?
We’re going to record and release “The
Golden Bough” in summer 2010, after
that we’re going to play a couple of
shows maybe. And hopefully we’ll also
make a small trip to Portugal to another
festival, in October. Other than that
there is not really a plan.
The last lines belong to you. Please
add any final comments. Thank
you.
Can’t say how thrilled we all are to come
to Greece and play for you guys. The
Greek fans have been among the first
to support our band and as far as I can
tell from the e-mail correspondences
and the sales, Greece holds a lot of
Atlantean-Kodex-supporters. Really, it’s
an honour to play at Up the Hammers.
We’re so much looking forward to meet
you all and talk to you and drink with
you and praise Zeus, the Thunderer, for
humankind. Hails! 
Antonis Adamakos
Web: www.atlanteankodex.de
Discography
The Hidden Folk EP
(split with Vestal Scarlet)
(Metal Coven, 2007)
The Pnakotic Demos EP
(New Iron Age, 2007)
A Prophet in the Forest EP
(Iron Kodex, 2008)
The Pnakotic Vinyls DoLP 10’’
(Iron Kodex, 2009)
The Annihilation of Konigshofen LP
(Temple of Katholic Magick, 2009)

I was excited when the lyrical
epic metallers from Cyprus
were announced to perform
at Up The Hammers festival! Just
a few days before the release
of “Terra Incognita”, Nicolas
Leptos, the charismatic singer
of Arryan Path, gives us the
latest news from their camp.
Can you provide a short bio of the
band?
The band was formed around 1997 in
Boston, Massachusetts where I was
studying. It kind of ‘relocated’ to Cyprus
and after two 7-song demos we recorded
our debut album ‘Road to Macedonia’ in
2004. Arryan path was put on ice for a few
years as my brother, Paris, our bass player
and me, were busy with Prodigal Earth,
my childhood band since 1995.  The band
was re-activated again 1,5 years ago and
our second cd ‘Terra incognita’ will be out
soon. Even though this is like a personal
project of mine, I couldn’t have done it
without the collaboration of many friends
and musicians who helped along the way,
dating back to the demo era.
Are you happy with the release of your
first cd through Steel Gallery records?
Did it go well? 4 years have passed
since the release, would you change
anything?
‘Road to Macedonia’ went very well,
especially in Greece. We have created our
own little fan-base and I must add that
I very often receive emails from many
metalheads expressing their admiration
and love for this album. Hmm, if I had
to do it all over again I think I would mix
the keyboards lower. You will hear in our
new album that keyboards, even though
they play an important role to our sound
(from the start), they are mixed lower,
giving more emphasis on the guitars. I am
having some thoughts of remixing 2 or 3
songs from our debut, making them more
guitar-oriented, even though I’m not a fan
of remixes.
What has the band been up to lately?
What are your recent news and
activities?
The band is at the moment preparing for
UP THE HAMMERS festival. This is a special
event for us because it is the first time that
the band is playing abroad. We are also
waiting for our new album ‘Terra incognita’
to come out. We have signed with Pitch
black records and we’re hoping that it
will go well. On our part, we have done
everything possible to write great songs,
have the best possible production, a very
good packaging and now it’s up to the label
to do their part.
When your new cd “Terra Incognita”
is coming out? Can you give us some
details on the new album?
The album is coming out at the beginning
of February. It will contain 10 songs that
hopefully will satisfy every fan of epic
and power metal. I wanted this album to
be a step higher than the previous one.
Not necessarily song-wise but for sure
production-wise. So we decided to record
abroad. We travelled to Germany at the
Maranis studios and recorded there for
two weeks. Stefan Dittrich from Mystic
prophecy played the drums, Vangelis
Maranis (ex Sanvoisen) played bass,
additional guitars and sang a duet with
me and Alexis Kleidaras, a good friend of
mine from Greece (he used to play with
Deceptor) played some additional lead
guitars. Of course my brother Socratis
was the main guitarist and George Kallis
played the keys. We hope this album will
be embraced by everyone who liked our
debut and maybe even win us some new
fans!
What is your opinion about Up The
Hammers festival? How do you feel
that you are going to participate in
this fest?
Well, I know that it’s one of the most
important festivals for this type of music
and for bands like us. People travel from
all over Europe to attend. From what I
understand, it is a festival that fans wait
for the whole year! I am very happy that
we will play there.
Can you give us your opinion about
the other bands that will take part in
U.T.H.?
This event gave me the chance to know
more about the music of these bands. I
was never too ‘deep’ into the underground
scene so I didn’t know all the bands that
were playing. But I looked them up and
discovered some amazing music! I’m
looking forward to seeing all of them play,
especially Doomsword!
What do you think about the current
Heavy Metal scene? Any cool band you
listened lately and impressed you?
You know, there are so many albums
coming out each week! And from all genres
of metal! Before, bands could never put out
a cd unless they had a contract with a label.
Now they can just record it themselves,
promote it through the internet and sell
it themselves! I am a fan of all kinds of
metal music and I really can’t keep up
with all the new releases. One can’t buy
everything. But, to answer your question,
I think there are some very good bands
out there. I liked the new WASP. The new
Overkill kicks ass! Kamelot, Symphony X
and Rhapsody always write good music. I
also like Lost Horizon and Hibria. There’s
some great music out there. Nowadays
there are many good singers, great guitar
players and every neighborhood has a
kick-ass drummer!
Can you tell us a few things about the
scene in Cyprus? How strong is the
scene? Is there enough support from
the press and fans? How often a gig is
organised? Also, what is your opinion
about your cousin’s band SOLITARY
SABRED?
In Cyprus we have a very small scene and
very few bands. Not many people come
to the concerts and that forces the bands
to play less and less. A band cannot have
a live every week or even every month
because they’re messing with the balance
of demand and offer. You always see the
same people in the concerts. The few
dedicated fans who are basically holding
the scene together and for that it doesn’t
fall apart! We have a great metal bar called
Rocka Rolla (I recommend it) and people
meet there to listen to their metal and
enjoy themselves but besides that just a
few radio shows (at early morning hours).
The good thing is that we have at least one
group of high standards for each genre and
everyone knows each other. Concerning
your question about Solitary sabred; they
play a, what one would call, ‘back-to-
the-roots’ epic metal, very different from
-23-
the epic metal that we play. They have
passion in what they’re doing because
they’re playing the music that they prefer
listening to, and even though it’s not really
my style, I really liked some of their songs.
I wish them the best for the future!
Recently, you released a cd with
PRODIGAL EARTH (ex-Gangland). Your
cd is really great. Powerful, melodic
and somehow unique sounding...
congrats! Can you give us some info
about the band and this cd?
Prodigal earth has a very special place in
my heart. It’s the band that we started
when we were 16 years old and a band that
consists only of family and close friends!
Some of the members of Arryan path are
also in Prodigal earth. The band sounds a
lot like Iron Maiden but with a bit more
‘progressiveness’ I would say. ‘Zenith II
Zero’ is a very special album for me and I
know that people liked it because it’s close
to selling out. So thanks to everyone who
bought it! I hope to do more with this band
in the future.
What are your next plans and goals
for 2010?
Aha… good question! Many things. First
I would like to say that Arryan path are
back to stay! There are lots of songs yet
to be recorded. The plan is to record at
least one cd per year. I hope we will be
able to do that. I already have an idea
of how the next album will sound and I
think it’s going to be great. Now for me,
this does not end here. We are planning
an album with Prodigal earth. I don’t know
when but hopefully it can be out in a year
from now. I will also participate in a few
projects from Cyprus bands and I am also
discussing about singing the vocals for an
amazing Greek group that is well respected
and well-known in Greece ;). So you see,
no rest for me at all this year! More news
coming soon!
The last lines belong to you. Please
add any final comments.
I am looking forward to seeing everybody
at the front row at UP THE HAMMERS! To
headbang, sing the lyrics together and
travel to ancient Egypt, ancient Greece
and middle earth. Listen to our new album
‘Terra incognita’ and tell us your opinion.
I’m leaving you with some lyrics from
‘Molon lave’, a new song that we will play
at the festival: ‘300 lions, 300 men, 300
soldiers with ideals to defend, remember
us, the fallen ones, the only reason you
have pride now, is because we are now
dust’, hail!!
Antonis Adamakos
Discography
“Return to Troy” demo (Private, 1999)
“Osiris” demo (Private, 2000)
“Road to Macedonia” CD
(Steel Gallery, 2004)
“Terra Incognita” CD (Pitch Black, 2010)

Pure Metal,
Pure Banging,
Pure Drinking…
that’s CONVIXION,
a Hellenic band
that is a big hope
for our scene. Most
of our readers will
definitely remember
their appearance
in the 2nd Up The
Hammers festival.
Let’s see what the
mastermind of this
band Nick Papakostas
has to say!
Can you provide a short bio of the
band?
Well, the band exists since the year
2002. We were inactive for some years
until the year 2007 when we came back
into action. Since then we have released
a five track EP from Eat Metal Records
and have done many gigs. The line – up
remains the same the last three years.
Me on guitars and vocals, Stelios Makris
on guitars, Mike Bakoulas on the bass
and Manos Kehagias on the drums.
What has the band been up to
lately? What are your recent news
and activities?
The last year I had to complete my
military duties BUT on the contrary
with other bands, when some members
serve the military, we weren’t hold
back. We did as many lives as we could,
wrote some new songs and now we are
recording our album. We also played on
some great shows with the legendary
Angel Witch and Tankard.
Your first mini-CD released by Eat
Metal. Did it go well? Can you also
give us some info on the new cd that
is going to be released on March?
As far as I know the CD is sold out. I
guess that’s good! The new album will
be released by Eat Metal Records. It
contains eight new songs on the same
heavy – speed – thrash style. It will
be self – titled and we have plans for a
video clip. The people that come to our
shows are already familiar with most of
the new songs and the comments are
encouraging.
You are also the guitarist of
Strikelight. What are the latest
news from your other band?
Strikelight have composed eight new
songs. The drums and bass were
recorded almost two years ago. Due
to many difficulties and restrictions we
couldn’t complete the album. But it
is almost ready. It will be released by
EMR on the same day as the Convixion
album.
The famous gossip reporter of time that I heard their album and
HotMetalGossip.com has published when I saw them live in Germany I
some pics of you and your famous was just amazed. I also like the works
friends in a strip club. Can you tell of Cauldron from Canada, Blaze from
us what happened that night? Japan and White Wizard from California.
It was the first day of the new decade. It seems that there is a come – back on
There was something magic in the air (or the classic sounds the last years, with
was it in our drinks?) that lead us all at those bands taking the lead rolls and it
an underground strip – club. The drinks makes me wonder why, God dammed,
were many. So were the babes. So later can’t the bands from Greece be a part
that night the DJ scored some eighties of that. The answer is very complicated
– disco songs on the decks. We couldn’t and not for the moment.
resist the feeling so we got on the stage
and started dancing. When the stripers What is your top 10 - all time classics
saw us came running on the stage and album list?
danced along with us. Unfortunately my If you had asked me one week ago I
girlfriend was also there so I couldn’t would say another list because I change
taste their HOT bodies…but I wouldn’t my mind all the time. So for this week
say the same for the president – C.E.O I would say: Heavy Load – Death Or
of Eat Metal Records. The best babe of Glory, Exciter – Heavy Metal Maniac,
all grabbed him and Greg didn’t lose Picture – Heavy Metal Ears, Stormwitch
the chance to grab her ass!!! What – Walpurgis Night, Ostrogoth – Full
happened next it’s just history… Moon’s Eyes, Exodus – Bonded By Blood,
Testament – The New Order, Sodom –
You had won in a beer contest. How Persecution Mania, Tankard – Zombie
many beers did you drink that night? Attack, Tyrant (UK) – Anthology.
Who other famous beerdrinkers
took part? What was the prize? What are your next plans and goals
Yes it is true. Before the contest I had for 2010?
already drunk many beers. On the After the UTH is over, we’ll make some
contest I had to drink six or seven beers gigs to promote our album around
before the other five contestants. Pretty Greece. On May we’ll play at Long Live
easy I thought until I saw the beers. Metal Festival in Belgium and there is a
They were warm as hell and awful. It strong possibility we will play in Spain
was a very underground – cheap label with Brocas Helm, Metal Inquisitor and
from LIDL. But with my strategy I Released Anger.
wiped the others from the face of the
earth. I didn’t even puke as the others The last lines belong to you. Please
did (I puked later!). I don’t remember add any final comments.
who else took part because as I told Thank you very much for the interview
you I was already drunk. The price and we hope to have a great time at
unfortunately was a twenty four pack of U.T.H. Metal Above All.
the same lame beers. I took them at Eat
Metal’s headquarters but I forgot them Antonis Adamakos
there. The next day I went to get them
but I found only the empty cans at the
garbage! Discography:
What is your opinion about Up The “Metal Drinkin’ Conspiracy” mini Cd
Hammers festival? (Eat Metal, 2007)
It was about time for someone to take ‘Ομώνυμο’ CD
the decision and risk to organise a (Eat Metal, 2010)
festival like that. It grows bigger every
year and it is a pity that this year the
festival doesn’t take place in a bigger
venue. It is also a shame that the fans
from abroad are almost more than the
fans from Greece. It shows that here in
Greece we want to give tons of money to
the other organisers that don’t respect
what metal is all about. I am also
disappointed with the major magazines
of Greece. They should prompt their
readers to support this festival more
than any other festival because its spirit
is true but on the contrary not even the
editors attend it. Lame. And of course
it is our honour to participate at the
festival for a second time. Yeah.
Can you give us your opinion about
the other bands that will take part
in U.T.H.?
I haven’t seen live most of the bands
that will play and I am glad that I will
see again the rest for a second or a
third time. I can’t wait to see Enforcer
again and I hope for Savage Grace to
kick ass.
What do you think about the current
Heavy Metal scene? Any cool band
you listened lately and impressed
you?
Yes. As I have already mentioned,
Enforcer. They blew me away the first
-24-

Is DEXTER WARD a normal band or
a project?
Hail Antonis! Thank you very much, this
is Dexter Ward’s interview #1 !
DEXTER WARD is a real band by all
means! No project at all! We are back on
the streets and we’ll take no prisoners!
How did you come up with the line-
up? Do you think all members share
the same vision?
Me and Manolis had the same vision from
day one. Besides being best friends,
we’ve been doing music together for
many years, we love to play and write
together.
When we decided to create DEXTER
WARD and started searching for band
members our idea for the line up was a
group of individuals who could cooperate
smoothly on both the personal and the
musical level. Akis used to play classic
heavy metal many years ago, nowadays
he’s into different styles of music but
he’s a good friend and recorded / co-
produced our first album with Battleroar,
plus he makes a very good guitar partner
for Manolis, which is very important.
He’s also a very talented soloist with
great melodic taste.
John immediately liked our material
and he’s a big Iron Maiden fan, he
can play any style really but what
we needed was this type of bass
player, dynamic, technical and
fantasious who could easily fit in
our Iron Maiden inspired american
heavy metal songwriting. We have
been friends with John for many
years and shared stage and drinks
together many times.
As for Aggelos, there’s not much to say,
you can’t go wrong with him being one
of the best drummers in Greece, he’s a
real powerhouse. He likes the songs and
loves to play!
The songs you have posted
on mySpace have a more
straightforward classic heavy metal
approach, and do not remind the
epic side of Battleroar. Was this
direction made on purpose? Should
we expect more epic stuff in future?
Like the tracks of Hyrkanian Blade
(the project of Marco, some tracks
were also transferred to Battleroar)?
Heavy Metal Fighters!
Immediately after the departure of Manolis and Marco
from Battleroar, they formed a new kick-ass band! The
first tracks posted at myspace were a sign of what will
follow! Marco is giving some info about this newly
formed band.
How would you describe your style,
by the way?
The songs composed under the name
HYRKANIAN BLADES could be epic
in style (like “Egyptian Doom” or
“Sword of Crom” for example) or more
straightforward US Metal like “Stars and
Stripes”, sometimes it was something
in between like “Warlord of Mars”, “The
Wrathforge”, or “Vampire Killer”. It was
never intentional, to write an epic song
instead of a classic heavy metal one,
it depends on the feeling you have at
that specific moment. I personally find
it quite frustrating to feel compelled to
write only in a specific style, when I write
a song and it comes out epic, for me it’s
just a classic heavy metal song with an
epic theme or feel. So this is the style
for DEXTER WARD ... we play classic
heavy metal, Iron Maiden inspired, in
the american way! Sometimes more
epic, sometimes more straightforward,
as it happens afterall with most of our
favourite bands.
Do you have enough songs for an
album? What should we expect?
Yes, between me and Manolis we have
a good number of songs ready. At the
moment we’re recording three tracks
in demo form, our plan is to have them
ready for the UTH fest. It will be “Double
Dragon” and “Youngblood”, the songs
which can be found on the myspace,
plus “Antarctic Dream”, a more epic track
from the HYRKANIAN BLADES material.
The rest of the songs are a mix of epic
and classic, I can give some of the titles:
“Evil Nightmares”, “Ghost Rider”, “Force
of the Pentacle”, “Crusades”, “Return of
the Longships”, “The Nameless City”,
“Streets of Fire”, “Back to Saigon” and
more.
How did the name of the band came
out?
The name was taken from a H.P.Lovecraft
story, “The Case of Charles Dexter
Ward”. It’s my favourite Lovecraft story
since when I was a teenager. I think it
stands also as a metaphor ... the dead
magician Joseph Curwen (U.S. Metal)
coming back to life from his essential
salts by the hand of the young Charles
DEXTER WARD ... I bet the salts were
white, red and blue!
-25-
What about the lyrics? Any common
concept?
No, there’s no common thread, although
some of the songs such as “Youngblood”
and “Evil Nightmares” have a religious
message, you could consider them as
White Metal. Our motto is “U.S. Metal
for the Light!” and that’s for a good
reason. I think there’s a great need for
light in our lives, especially nowadays.
We are no preachers of course but
we think heavy metal with a positive
attitude and purpose should uplift and
unite the hearts of the young ... that’s
what “Youngblood” is about.
On the other hand “Double Dragon”
is about the 80s coin-op videogame
from TECHNOS ... legendary for
the ones who remember! Fighting
against mutant warriors and gangs
in a post apocalyptic NY city ... it
can’t get more american and more
epic than that!
“Antarctic Dream” takes inspiration
from both Lovecraft (“At the Mountains
of Madness”) and Howard (the youth of
Conan in Cimmeria), and it ends with
a Lovecraft quote “Sick of this sphere,
in time and conflict old / We yearn for
wonders, distant and untold”, which
explains perfectly what heavy metal
means for us.
Your next plans?
To perform two shows at the fest and
the warm up, we’re very excited about
it!
After UTH we’ll start working on
more songs and tracking demos for a
forthcoming album release. We don’t
have a deadline set, we’ll take our time
to achieve the best results! As for the
live activity, the more, the better!
Thank you for the interview! Please
add anything you like for the end!
See you in Athens and thank you for all
the support! It’s great to be back!
DEXTER WARD - U.S. METAL FOR THE
LIGHT!
All the best!
Marco
Antonis Adamakos
myspace.com/dexterwardband
 The Horn has resounded
DOOMSWORD. One of the names that definitely commands respect even from people not so
much into their sound. Since 1999, they have released 4 albums and they will release their new
(untitled yet) opus, later in 2010. Expecting their appearance at Up the Hammers V Festival, where
they will headline the second day (as well as their new album), I e-mailed a bunch of questions to
Deathmaster who was kind enough to answer to some of my queries that I think that will be of
much interest to most fans of this killer band.

When and under which circumstances was DOOMSWORD formed?

Deathmaster: DOOMSWORD was formed back in 1997. At the time I was the
guitarist in a band called AGARTHI, and while I was having a good time I really
wanted to form an Epic Metal band. I remember being in a Metal shop in Milan and
overhearing a conversation about CIRITH UNGOL which attracted my attention
so I joined in and found out that the two guys I was talking to were Maurizio from
the label Underground Symphony and Sandro Buti (Italian Journalist). Maurizio
already knew AGARTHI so I told him about my wish to form an Epic Metal band
in WARLORD/MEDIEVAL STEEL style and he said that if I did that he’d publish
us right away. It was not so easy to get a label to publish Classic Metal so when
I went home I called Guardian Angel (who was also playing in AGARTHI) and
asked him for help. He was both a drummer and a guitarist and all we needed
was a bass player, as I was taking care of guitars and vocals.

In late 1997, you released the “Sacred Metal” demo. Can you give us
some info about this recording?
Deathmaster: We wrote the demo in about a week and recorded it in a few
hours, by October 1997 the demo was for sale, I don’t remember selling more
than a few copies, the rest were given out as promotional copies or lost.

In 1999, you released “Doomsword”, an album that was hailed with

great enthusiasm from the underground press of the time and with very
slow steps from the big magazines (here in Greece at least)
Deathmaster: It was not so different outside Greece. Well we did get reviewed
in a couple of German and Italian big magazines but a killer review, such as the
ones in Snakepit or Steel Conjuring was all we wanted.

The follow-up was out in 2002, this time under the Dragonheart label.
Better distribution and a “better” timing of course combined with
classic material resulted in an album that put the band in the map and
started a “strange” journey. I mean DOOMSWORD was / is (as you put
it in an interview in 2003-2004) a “huge” underground act, but a small
mainstream one. What were the reasons for this?
Deathmaster: DOOMSWORD’s music has many elements of melody and
sometimes it can even be catchy but by no means is it accessible to the
masses. Most people would find DOOMSWORD boring, slow, not clean enough
especially if compared to mainstream acts. We always referenced bands such
as WARLORD, MANILLA ROAD or CIRITH UNGOL, and this probably contributed
to keep DOOMSWORD an underground act for underground fans rather than
a mainstream success. Finally, our production was willingly different from the
mainstream way of recording, rough and ready, less polished-more Metal.

The baptism of fire concerning live shows came in the 26th of October
2002 in Porto D’Ascoli, supporting no other than MANILLA ROAD. I
guess this was a dream for all of you.
Deathmaster: No, the truth is that it wasn’t even a dream! We had no plans
to play live and never heard of any US Metal legends coming to Europe to play
shows so it was completely unexpected when Gianluca Silvi called to ask us
to play! Of course we suddenly became a live band in that moment. It was an
amazing experience (Mark Shelton even asked me on stage to sing with him).
There were probably less than 100 people at the show but you know, to quote a
famous band “they were few in number, but the look in their eyes…”

The second show DOOMSWORD gave, was in Athens in the 2nd of March
2003 (supported by BATTLE RAM, DENIAL PRICE and SACRED OUTCRY),
where you (we) have some very strong memories. Your comments
please.
Deathmaster: Athen was incredible. It is probably still the most amazing show
we ever played. The atmosphere was magic, the reaction from the crowd was
unbelievable, they sang every single word of every song, the most epic feeling I
have ever felt on a stage, and it was our very first concert abroad! And not just
the show… we were hanging around Athens for a couple of days and it looked to
us as if we were in Metal City. Since then I believe you can’t say you’ve witnessed
real Metal madness until you’ve been at the right show in Athens. We will simply
never forget that experience and I doubt anything will ever match it.

-26-
At the time of the 2nd albums’ release,
there were some unreleased tracks,
namely “Pagan Altar” (inspired by
the British Gods, I guess?), “Stygian
Council” and “In the Battlefield”
(same song as on the 3rd LP???)
and you said that they should be
reworked, but not included in a
future release. Any news or is it just
a stupid trivia question?
Deathmaster: Well, “Pagan Altar” is
“Odin’s Hail”, the title track of “Resound
the Horn”. “Stygian Council” has been
reworked and may be on our 6th album
(we just finished recording the 5th). “In
the Battlefield” is not the same song
that went on “Let Battle Commence”. In
fact it’s a very old composition. Parts of
it are as old as the demo.
And what about “Crimson Sky-The
Flag of Armageddon”?
Deathmaster: It’s basically lost. I get
flashes of the riffs every now and then
and I really hope to record it one day
because I know it was a killer apocalyptic
doom song, in the way of the song “The
DoomSword”.
As a Metal fan, I would like to ask
you what’s your opinion that the
first two DOOMSWORD LP’s (and
mainly the debut) can be sold for as
high as 50€ nowadays?
Deathmaster: I imagine that people
have paid more than 50€, I certainly
have seen the first CD for sale for even
more than that. It all comes down to
supply and demand…in a perfect world
the fans would be able to get a copy of
the CD or vinyls for a fair price and the
band would even get paid. These days if
something is hard to find sellers can get
away with charging the price they want
(e.note: great answer, if all bands had
this attitude…).
The third album, “Let Battle
Commence” was released in 2003
and while at first it seemed to
make a very good impression to
most of the DOOMSWORD fans (me
included) as time passed it got
“weaker” in the minds of many fans
and nowadays (especially with the
“aid” of the killer 4th CD) it can be
easily labeled as your weakest one.
Do you share this view? (Or parts
of it?)
Deathmaster: Let me take the
opportunity to say that it depends on who
I am talking to; fans are continuously
telling us which the best album is, it’s
always amusing to watch people fighting
among themselves on this topic. Does it
matter? So I still hear that “Let Battle
Commence” is the best DOOMSWORD
album from a lot of people and for some
aspects it is, looking back with hindsight
the songs could have done with less
repetition and more lead parts. I am
also quite surprised by how people often
call “Let Battle Commence” a minimalist
album, as it is not easy material to play
at all, sometimes I wonder if there wasn’t
real genius in making very complicated
things sound so simple. I also think that
this is the risk with concept albums;
they are always ambitious and more
difficult to understand. Anyway, lessons
are being learned all the time. But
yes, some fans’ reaction to “Let Battle
Commence” contributed to that “retro”
atmosphere of “My Name Will Live On”.
The album sounded very BATHORY
influenced and the atmosphere
leaned more on the Doom side. Was
it a conscious decision the album
to sound like this, or were you so
much into this songwriting by that
time? I know that the URKRAFT /
GJALLAHORN material had been
prior to this, but could it be that it
played some role? If yes, why didn’t
you try to “keep” it in a project and
let it “spread” in DOOMSWORD?
Deathmaster: First of all the biggest
element was probably the introduction
of Wrathlord at the drums which
-27-
made DOOMSWORD sound a lot more
violent and Viking sounding. Wrathlord
contributed greatly to this album. The
problem was the absence of other
members. There were some more classic
Metal aspects missing but I won’t accept
that it is a “BATHORY” album …yes they
were a huge influence most probably
due to the theme of the album but all
five albums sound different to each
other anyway. I believe that if something
doesn’t sound VERY DOOMSWORD it’s
only wise and respectful to the fans to
keep it separated maybe to be released
with another name. Also as far as I
remember GJALLAHORN were formed
after “Let Battle Commence” was
recorded. In fact I remember thinking
GJALLAHORN was an ideal way to
“vent” my Viking compositions without
“tainting” DOOMSWORD anymore.
After the third album, there was
a small period of intense activity
for the band with shows etc. but
it seems that some band problems
kept the band in hiatus for quite
some time. Why was that?
Deathmaster: After the third album
there was a reshuffle in the line up,
and it took us time to re-adjust things.
There was also a brief period for my
part of about 6 months before I began
writing “My Name Will Live On”, I had
moved country and was busy finding my
way but the year didn’t end before I had
borrowed a guitar and began work on
“My name will live On”. Yes it took some
time for us to get organized
and get into the studio and
there was no time for live
shows in that period but as
soon as we were done we
started off with the show in
Milan with WOTAN…I’ll be
honest with you, I wouldn’t
say problems stopped the
band from going on, it was
more circumstances of life,
and not even that unusual or
abnormal.
In April 2008, the band
performed at the Keep it
True Festival (being one
of the very few bands to
have played twice there).
To many fans dismay,
the show was not what
we expected from you, especially
if we take into consideration the
very strong 4th album you had, the
presence of Nightcomer on vocals
and the excitement that many fans
had to see you as it has been quite
some time. What are your comments
on that night?
Deathmaster: The show was not what
we expected from ourselves! Its difficult
to say what exactly went wrong …it was
possibly a number of things added up
together. There were sound problems
and missed timings from the band which
didn’t help (Nightcomer also went a bit
further with his performance than in
rehearsals) but there was also a strange
energy on the stage and from the crowd.
To add to this I had completely lost my
singing voice just previously but decided
that the show could not be cancelled...I
only heard some clear notes for the first
time in months right before going on
stage! We are kicking ourselves that the
show was not perfect for the fans. The
rehearsals were really good and the next
show we played was near perfect! There
is a part of all of this that is a mystery to
me. That show still means a lot now that
Nightcomer is no longer involved in the
Metal scene, it really was a one-off and
the weekend was really amazing, Keep
It True is a great festival.
“My Name will live on” is the
latest offering of the band, to my
ears sounding like the perfect mix
between the first two LP’s, bringing
back the “old” DOOMSWORD sound
and leaving back the minimal, more
Doom/BATHORY approach of the
third. Was this a deliberate choice?
I remember back in 2006 both you
and Forger telling me in various
occasions that it would be a return
to the sound of the first albums.
Deathmaster: It was definitely a
deliberate choice. The fourth album has
elements of all three previous albums
and it was time to shake off the new label
of “Viking Metal” which we never were
nor ever will be. “My Name Will Live On”
has a lot more classic references and a
far more dedicated lineup in the studio
therefore it sounds more like the first
two but I think you will agree Kostas
that it also stands on its own? (e.note:
Absolutely) With the fifth album we will
no doubt lose some fans and gain some
new ones. Lets us know what you think
when it is released!
On “My name will Live on”, you
managed to have Vittorio Ballerio
from the mighty ADRAMELCH
making guest vocals. How did this
happen?
Deathmaster: Vittorio and I are in
contact with each other and he asked
me if there was a part he could sing
on the album. Of course it was a huge
honor for me and he did a really great
job, definitely made “Once Glorious”
sound very special.
Looking back at the 10-years career
of DOOMSWORD (and with 4 albums
under your name), what are your
feelings? Do you feel that the work
paid off?
Deathmaster: I’ll be honest, I feel
very strange about our career. When
we started we knew exactly what we
wanted to do, how we wanted to do it.
And obviously-being young and bold-we
wanted some recognition of our value
from the Metal scene. But nowadays all
that is gone… our only commandment is
to play Epic Heavy Metal, but what we
want is simply to create great Metal, and
nothing else-that’s the only constant
nowadays. We don’t play to please the
fans. We simply (and strongly) hope
that our taste in music and that of our
fans match. We never want to repeat
ourselves so we also put a genuine
effort into being creative, keeping that
DOOMSWORD feeling without ever
doing a “Resound the Horn pt. 2”. So in
this sense, yes it did pay off, because I
still like every single song on our albums
even though they’re so different to each
other.
And it also paid off because we’re about
to release a fifth album and I can’t think
of many bands having five albums out,
that in itself is a great achievement in
terms of dedication and endurance,
and we have tracks for a sixth album
already…
In the back of the “Doomsword” LP,
there were some 80’s albums/bands
mentioned. Even from that time
there were reviews/fans stating
that you outclassed some of them. I
am of the same opinion. Being a fan
yourself, how do you view this?
-28-
Deathmaster: No it’s simply
not true. Sure we had the
advantage that we were
looking back to these
references and trying to
create something new while
they were referencing a
different generation of rock
bands. If anything, I like to
think that the 80’s albums
mentioned on the first album
were all original sounding
and that DOOMSWORD too
have created something more
unique than the clones of
bands you often hear (e.note:
that’s so true). Having said
that, we got some great
feedback at the time from Bill
Tsamis and Robert Garven
and heard from someone
at the time that Mark Shelton had the
first CD in his house… we couldn’t really
ask for more than that. We continue to
march on our own path always playing
for ourselves and playing from the heart
not according to a definition of what we
should play.
What should we expect from
DOOMSWORD in the near future?
Deathmaster: Album number 5 is
due for release soon. It’s another
change in sound but still remarkably
DOOMSWORD. No doubt we will get lots
of feedback from our Hellenic fans which
we look forward too…good or bad! Also
we hope to release “My Name Will Live
On” and the fifth album on vinyl in very
limited quantities just for fans.
Thanks a lot for the interview
and your time, I really saw more
as a friendly talk, rather than a
presentation and I think quite a few
things have been cleared. The last
words are yours…
Deathmaster: Thank you my friend,
your interview/chat is possibly one of
the most interesting I’ve ever done,
especially because you know the band
so well and probably represent the
voice of many fans so well too. hope
any doubts have been cleared, all we’re
thinking of now is to kick ass at the
Up the Hammers Festival. The rest is…
beers and gyros. Hails!
Kostas Kailiazis
myspace.com/officialdoomsword
Discography:
“Sacred Metal” demo tape
(Private, 1998)
“Doomsword” CD/LP
(Underground Symphony, 1999)
“Resound the Horn” CD/2LP
(Dragonheart/
Metal Supremacy, 2002)
“Let Battle Commence” CD/LP
(Dragonheart, 2003/
Metal Supremacy, 2005)
“My name will Live on” CD
(Dragonheart, 2007)
“Scream of the Savages”
Sweden’s metal merchants
ENFORCER took us by surprise
with the release of “Into the
night”, an awesome debut that
brought us in mind the glory
days of NWOBHM mixed with
the characteristic sound
of their 80’s compatriots!!! A
couple of days before their
first ever gig in Greece and
in the middle of recording
sessions for the forthcoming
second release, the quintet
found a little time to answer
to our questions…
How do you feel that you’ve
participating in one of the greatest
underground festivals in Europe
such as Up The Hammers?
I don’t think too much of it, we play lots
of different festivals and occasional gigs
with very varied line-ups. But of course
it feels great to play with bands that I
admire myself and also get the chance to
see all those bands. Generally I’m not a
big fan of re-united old bands that have
lost the flame though, and unfortunately
most of the bands have lost it. I’m really
excited about seeing Savage Grace, one
of my all time favourite bands!
Apart from your fellow compatriots
IN SOLITUDE, what do you think of
the others bands of the billing?
I haven’t got the chance to check out
the other bands yet, but I got really
excited when I heard that Savage Grace
are performing. 
I was highly impressed by your
debut “Into the night” and it seems
that I wasn’t the only one… Which
were the reactions by the press and
fans in a worldwide basis?
The world-wide reactions have been
pretty good and the attention has
obviously taken us all over the world.
But it’s still nothing compared to what’s
to come.
It seems that the new wave
of traditional heavy metal is
going stronger and stronger and
ENFORCER surely belong to the elite
of the genre. What do you want to
express through your music? Is it a
tribute to your idols or something
more?
I have no goal with the song writing
and I’m not writing for anyone else
than myself. It’s no tribute or anything,
I just write music that I would enjoy
myself. I think it is when you start
write for something else than your own
satisfaction that you will lose it. If it’s
something I want to express it would be
aggression and energy. 
How the tour in U.S. with
CAULDRON went and which are
the main differences of American
fans comparing with the European
audience?
It went really well! We played for sold-
out venues almost all nights in front of
crazy American fans and groupies. It’s
really hard to say what American fans
are like since it seems like there’s a huge
difference depending on where in the US
you are. It’s a hell of big country!  SILVER
Do you think that using internet’s
possibilities gives you a chance to
spread your music even to people
that in any other case they wouldn’t
have the opportunity to listen to
you?
Of course, and to be honest, we
wouldn’t exist without internet and all
the appreciation that the world-wide
fans gave us in the beginning of our
carrier through internet.
If someone approaches you and
ask you to describe to him in a few
words what ENFORCER are about,
what you should tell him?
It’s all about pure energy. Musically and
-29-
aesthetically. 
What are you listening to up lately
and I’d like to give us your opinion
about HEAVY LOAD, CANDLEMASS,
AXEWITCH, MERCYFUL FATE,
MOUNTAIN, MINDLESS
SINNER…
I’ve been listening very much to US-
metal such as Lizzy Borden, Omen and
Death Dealer. I highly appreciate all the
Swedish bands you mention and it feels
really good to precede the Scandinavian
legacy of real hard rock left by those
bands.
Which is the most ambitious dream
/ goal that you want to achieve as a
member of ENFORCER?
World domination, and that’s no dream.
You’re in the process of recording
new songs for the forthcoming
second album… What should we
expect? 
You should expect the most raw, heavy
and cool metal record ever put out,
what else? “Diamonds” are way more
varied than the last record though.
The concentration is still the same,
but some songs tend to be even more
towards speed metal and some other
songs towards straight hard rock. A
compilation of great heavy metal to be
appreciated by everyone!
Gregory Baxevanidis
www.myspace.com/enforcerswe
DISCOGRAPHY:
“Evil Attacker” Demo
(Private, 2005)
“Evil Attacker / Mistress from Hell”
7” Single
(Iron Pegasus, 2005)
“Into the Night”
(Heavy Artillery, 2008)
 “By the Grace of the Witch”
MERCYFUL FATE’s musical background undoubtely affected many new
bands which tries to capture the feeling of the Danes early recordings
“Melissa” and “Don’t break the oath”… IN SOLITUDE are hailing from Sweden
and their eponymous debut proved the abilities of the quintet, so let’s see
what they’ve told us concerning their latest activities…

Many people believe that IN
SOLITUDE is the ideal mix
of early IRON MAIDEN and
MERCYFYL FATE… Do you agree
or not with this description?
No, we are In Solitude. Are you the ideal
mixture of Iron Maiden and Mercyful
Fate?
How the underground press and fans
behaved to your debut eponymous
release? Are you satisfied by the
songs as composers and musicians?
I am very satisfied with the album.
Like a thousand scythes being swinged
back and forth in a crowd of lambs,
children, cows and gods. I don’t really
know about the ”underground”.. There
are usually people at our gigs and they
seem to appreciate it.
taking control, which is a very powerful much for me and the band. But for the
experience. The people who understand, moment, things like Nick Cave, Masters
they understand. Hammer, Dissections ”Reinkaos”
and Ozzy Osbourne have been very
How do you feel that you’re coming important.
for first time in Greece and what do
you think that underground festivals Which is the secret for artists
such as Up The Hammers? coming from the Swedish shores
I have never been to Up The Hammers and they’ve conquered the entire
before so I don’t know what to expect. music industry?
But I have a genuine love for the S a c r i f i c e !
country, its rich history and the serpents
that slumbers there. And they shall be Thank you so much for your
awakened… answers… Any last comments?
Da tariki, tariqat!
Which is your opinion about the
other bands that are participating Greg Baxevanidis
at the festival?
I don’t listen that much to any of the www.myspace.com/
bands except Enforcer, but we’ll see. insolitudeheavymetal

Why did you choose two different
labels (Pure Steel and High Roller)
to release your effort on cd and vinyl
as well? Are you vinyl collectors
and do you think that true metal
bands must follow the tradition
of the 80’s where vinyl was the
total king of music industry?
I personally prefer vinyl for various
reasons, but I couldn’t care less weather
people buy CD or vinyl. And since some
tend to buy CD and some tend to buy
vinyl, we released both.
Can you give to us the picture
of a typical IN SOLITUDE show?
Which was the best and worst live
experience so far?
In Solitude live is our inner demons
What the future will bring for the
band? Do you have any plans for
recording your new stuff soon? Will
it be at the same direction or not? DISCOGRAPHY:
That depends on what you mean with
”direction”, but yes, it is the same “In Solitude” Demo
flesh and blood. If we look upon it as (Private, 2005)
an organic process. It’s the same tree,
growing, new branches and new caves. “Hidden Dangers” Demo
New eyes. So yes, there is new material
(Private, 2006)
in progress for a second album, and it
is hell.
“Hidden Dangers” 7” Single
Can you name your all-time top 10 (SMP, 2008)
list of albums that in one way or
another inspired you to be involved “In Solitude” CD / LP
with heavy metal? (Pure Steel / High Roller, 2008)
That doesn’t work for me, there is too
much albums that have meant too

-30-
 Still Standing Strong!!
MARAUDER is one of the oldest
bands in Greece that is still
alive! They are dedicated to
deliver Classic Heavy Metal and
they do it well! Classic albums
like “Sense of Metal”, “1821” and
“Life?” should be essential items
in every serious heavy metal
discography. The guitarist
George Sofronas informs us
about their latest news
Please provide a short bio of the
band!
MARAUDER were created in 1990 by
the two guitarists Andreas Tsaousis and
George Sofronas. Until now, the band has
released 2 demo tapes and 4 cd’s. After
many live shows during these 20 years,
MARAUDER have been established as
one of the most important Metal bands
in Greece. The band currently is in the
studio recording the new upcoming cd
– we hope to be released before the
summer.
Please give us some info on your
fourth album “Face the Mirror”. How
would you compare it with your
other releases? Are you satisfied
with the final result? How was the
feedback from the press and fans?
With “Face the Mirror” album we tried
to sound more traditional by giving
more aggressiveness to our music.
We had some arguments about the
production of the cd (which was 100%
our responsibility), but we think the
result was a good Heavy Metal album
afterall. We like to believe that the fans
liked it to.
What is your opinion about Up The
Hammers festival? How do you feel
that you are going to participate in
this fest?
It gets better and better every year,
with bigger bands playing and more
people turning up. We are honoured to
play with such good bands this year.
We will try to sound the best we can,
and give our 100% on stage. We will
play many songs from the“1821”cd,
and many more due to the band’s 20th
anniversary.
Can you give us your opinion about
the other bands that will take part
in U.T.H.?
All the bands that will take part are
great, but I personally like Praying
Mantis the most…because of the age… cd. We hope that the cd will be released
ha ha ha. by the end of this summer.
What do you think about the current The last lines belong to you. Please
Heavy Metal scene? Any cool band add any final comments.
you listened lately and impressed We hope to see you all at the U.T.H. Fest
you? and on April the 18th at the same club
(AN CLUB) we will be having a party
SABBATON is one band that impressed playing songs from all our demos and
us since we played together last year. albums plus many surprises with old
Even though they are young they are members of the band participating! We
very professional. In Sweden there is will burn the house down! Cheers!!!
a much better foundation for music for
metal bands than there in Greece. We Antonis Adamakos
liked the recent cd from “uncle” UDO
a lot, and we are expecting the new www.marauder.gr
GAMMA RAY, POWER CRUE and INNER
WISH cd’s as well! As for the global
heavy metal scene, we’ve said it before. Discography:
Chaos. Whoever has an overdrive at
his guitar becomes “Metal”. Anyway, “Try To Live” Demo
thankfully there are still some good (Private, 1991)
bands that keep up the good music.
“The Die Is Cast” Demo
What are your favorite bands? (Private, 1993)
ACCEPT, UDO, DIO, JUDAS PRIEST , “Sense Of Metal” CD
PRIMAL FEAR, SINNER, GAMMA RAY, (Live rec., 1997)
SABATON, DREAM EVIL, HAMMERFALL,
MSG and many more... “1821” CD
(Megahard, 2000)
What are your next plans and goals
for 2010? Have you started writing “Life?” CD
new songs? When do you expect (Eat Metal, 2004)
your next release to come out?
“Sense Of Metal” CD Re-issue + bonus
Right now we are in the middle of the (Eat Metal, 2005)
recordings for the new album at the new
C.N.D. studios. For the time being, we “Face The Mirror” CD
are very excited about the result of the (Heart of Steel, 2008)
Hot Fight in Athens
One of the last additions to this year’s Up the Hammers turned out to be one of the biggest surprises
(pleasant one, of course). MORTICIAN is an Austrian band that only managed to release a great 12”
single in 1987 and two demos. My first acquaintance with the band was back in 2001 when I got their
“No War & More” CD-r that the band had released. Looks like some people don’t give up and here we
have two of the original members (Thomas Metzler, also on ART OF FEAR and Patrik Lercher) trying
to re-establish the name of the band in the Metal scene. Aided by Pure Steel that has released the
above mentioned CD-r in a great CD edition, only time will tell what the future holds for them.
The interview was done with Patrik (bass), who was kind enough to send us some unreleased photos
of the band for inclusion.
When was MORTICIAN founded and
by which members?
Patrik: MORTICIAN was founded in 1983
by Thomas Metzler (lead guitar) and
Roland Konzett (rhythm guitar).
During the MORTICIAN years, did
the band share the stage with local
acts? With which ones?
Patrik: Yes, of course there where
some local bands and there was quite
a good scene, but I think they were
also not well known in the international
scene! Bands like VOLTAGE, CORONA,
IMPRESSION, BACKFIRE, all bands from
our neighborhood, some skilled, some
not!
Your first effort came in the shape
of a tape demo, named “Street
Warrior”, released early 1987. What
was the response for it? As a new
band what did you do concerning
this tape? (sending it to fanzines,
labels etc.)? in how many copies
was it pressed/circulated?
Patrik: We had a very good response
from our fans and the local scene but
from the big record companies it was
even hard to get a response. Most of
the answers sounded like: good, nice,
but not enough for a record deal and
we came from Austria, so that was no
advantage at all!!! So we were more
focused on national competitions and
live performances. The 200 or 300
pressed copies we more or less sold on
our live shows.
The first singer of the band, Robert
Wilfinger, was replaced with Siegi
Burn (RIP) after the demo. What
were the reasons behind this
decision?
Patrik: Actually Siegi was our first singer
but he broke with MORTICIAN because
of different visions. With Robert we
went to the studio to record “Street
Warrior”. So that’s why Robert sang
on the demo. Street Warrior was good
but a lot of fans asked for Siegi and he
was a friend of us and a very skilled
singer with a tremendous range, so we
switched back to him. Siegi was a bit
mad in his behavior though and so quite
hard to handle, but he surely was – as
said – skilled and mad enough to front
a Metal band.
Later in the same year, you released
the “No War” 12” from Autark
Records. How did you came in
contact with this German label?
Patrik: Autark Records was recommended
by the studio (EMS) where we did the
record. In fact it was self-financed and
a self-organized release which we were
very satisfied with.
How many copies of the 12” were
pressed? I understand that at the
time the 12” wasn’t exactly “flying
off” the shelves, while nowadays is
a wanted 80’s piece of vinyl. Pretty
ironic, right? Were you satisfied
with the distribution/promotion the
label did for the 12”?
Patrik: Yes that’s ironic! “No War” was
released in only 500 copies! We had
good response also from international
fanzines and labels, got good reviews,
but still not a deal. Regarding distribution
it was completely in our hands. Autark
only pressed the vinyl we had no deal
with them for promotion.
Were you familiar with the other
Autark release (that I know of…)
the RAVAGE – “Swords & Heroes”
EP?
Patrik: At that time no, not really!
On the back of the 12”, there was
written, “Fighting for peace is like
fucking for virginity. We want to
make love, not war”. Who came up
with this?
Patrik: That was Siegi. He always was
the philosopher of the band and it fits
to the EP title track “No War”. That’s
why it is there. As spoken, Siegi was
an entertainer and a kind of womanizer,
too, so that fitted well in these days….
In the photos on the back and the
insert of the 12”, you look pretty
young, especially Rene. What
was the average age of the band
members?
Patrik: The average in 1987? About
20! So we were young enthusiastic
Metalheads and willing to conquer the
world – that was our goal and a cool
period indeed.
Right after the 12” release, English
based Ebony Records, offered the
band a deal. Can you shed some
light on it, since as far as I know
this also resulted in some problems
inside the band.
Patrik: Getting the call from Ebony was
great. We won this deal by sharing a
competition. So the first step was to
participate on a sampler with some
other bands. For this we were invited
to Yorkshire (UK). Thomas and myself
traveled in advance to have some fun in
London before we would have entered
the studio. Siegi and Rene were intended
to follow by motorbike. We called Siegi
from London to find out if everything is
fine and then he told us that Rene broke
his arm. That was really fucking us up!
Whatever happened? Missing this chance
was bad for the bands relationship.
-32-
Was Ebony Records the only label
that showed interest in the band all
these years (of course apart from
Autark)?
Patrik: It’s sad to say but yes, it was.
You know, we came from Austria and
that was difficult as no band from
Austria received international support.
There were NO BROS, U8 and SPEED
LIMIT but they were also local “heroes”
and not more. So Austria was lacking
in a leader band like CELTIC FROST or
KROKUS from Switzerland which made
it easier for other bands to follow. That
was a pity for us.
Do you think that the lack of interest
was a result of the then dominating
thrash/death scene and the almost
minimal interest labels showed in
classic Metal?
Patrik: Hard to answer but I don’t think
so. We‘ve got some interest but mainly
for national live shows e.g. as support for
LIVING DEATH, MAGNUM and MESSIAH.
We also won a national competition and
participate on the “Metal Battle” live
sampler and due to good performances
we supported SODOM and SEPULTURA
in Vienna. But still no record deal.
In February 1989, the band
participated in “Heavy Metal Battle”
compilation LP, released from
Breakin Records. How did this deal
came up?
Patrik: “Heavy Metal Battle” was a
national contest. MORTICIAN was under
the 10 best bands in Austria and that’s
why we played the concert in Vienna
and the show was recorded for the live
album. The show took place in October
1988 and the bands participating were
MORTICIAN, SEXTIGER, SABOTAGE
(who were also the “winners”), RANDY
SKUNK, BE COOL, OBSERVER and
EXHIBITION.
The last sign of life concerning
studio released was in 1989, when
the “Break the Rules” demo was
released with yet another singer
joining the band. What are your
impressions?
Recording info, copies, press
feedback etc.
Patrik: “Break the Rules” is different.
With Cassy on the vocals and Alex on the
drums the MORTICIAN songs changed.
Both of them joined the same band
called TYRANT VIRGIN before and the
songs tended to get more to their and
not of Thomas and my liking. The good
thing was that the recording took place
at a studio right in our neighborhood
and did not cost a fortune. I think we
pressed 200 pieces of the demo and the
feedback was far from our expectations
and what we got for “No War”.
The band gigged a lot in Austria, but
never extensively in neighboring
countries. Why was that?
Patrik: If you have nobody doing
promotion and having contacts you are
lost. And imagine in the 80’s there was
no internet, no youtube, no myspace,
and no e-mail you could load up your
staff and reach the hole globe. And we
(still) lived on the country side so it was
tough to get out.
In the 90’s, the band’s singer (at
least in the single), Siegi Burn
committed suicide. If it’s not a
problem, can you tell us some more
things about it?
Patrik: Siegi always wanted to be a
rock star more vigorous than all of
us. His visions were far away from a
nine to five life. One day, back in the
early days of MORTICIAN, he told us
that he will commit suicide if he is not
successful with the age of 25. Nobody
took this serious as it sounded totally
ridiculous at that time and after Siegi
left MORTICIAN the second time we did
not have a lot of contact anymore. But
hearing from his suicide his words came
straight up in our minds. He did what he
predicted. That was a shock to us as he
was so skilled and a friendly guy as well.
MORTICIAN was a special band with him
and the live performances were wild
and mad, he was a born entertainer but
maybe he was too moody to be constant
enough for a serious band.
MORTICIAN has been often
compared to JUDAS PRIEST. What
are your views on this?
Patrik: JUDAS PRIEST was one of our
favorite bands and that maybe had an
impact on our song writing. But we never
saw us as band that is linked to JUDAS
PRIEST. We had so many influences,
relating to US Metal also, and listening
to all our material I can’t really share
that opinion.
How do you feel that nowadays there
is a lot of interest in MORTICIAN and
classic Metal in general compared to
the feedback you were getting back
in the day?
Patrik: It’s amazing getting such a
feedback today. Not even having the
complete line up together we were
already talking with Pure Steel Records
about a deal. Thanks to Heinz Konzett
(former Snakepit publisher) we’ve
got this contact and maybe it was the
right e-mail at the right time. If you
see how many 80’s bands are on tour
again I think this is also the right time
for MORTICIAN. As Thomas and Daniel
were active in ART OF FEAR the recent Rene was on board as well but a too
years, the band is still kicking and stressful job forced him to stop. Jolly,
very mature in the live performances, who always was in close contact with
so we are confident to present a good Thomas and is still a good friend of us
old school Metal band with power and made a clear statement that he will not
enthusiasm. The right Metal feeling, you start with music again.
know.
The last words are yours, thanks for
And what about the fact that the your time and music of course.
vast use of internet nowadays Patrik: Last but not least I want to
(among other factors of course) thank our singer Daniel (ex-ART OF
has given the chance to bands like FEAR and DUST N’ BONES) and Antee
MORTICIAN to be more known to a on drums (ex-SEKTOR7, VENDETTA and
younger generation of Metal fans? still SOREHEAD) for their commitment
Patrik: That’s very important for bands to MORTICIAN. It’s still not easy to find
like us. It’s not only for the younger (young) musicians who share the same
generation also Metal fans in our age spirit. Thank you guys! By the way,
do now have the possibility to get MORTICIAN is very busy writing new
access to a wide range of metal music. songs and if everything goes well you
For MORTICIAN this clearly will be the can hear the premiere on the “Up The
platform to be present in until we have Hammers” Festival! Cheers, Patrik
a professional promotion deal.
Kostas Kailiazis
Didn’t it pass your mind, now that
the Pure Steel offer came to re- www.myspace.com/morticianaustria
record the demo or even the 12”
songs? Or it wasn’t even the case,
be it the label or yourselves? Are
you satisfied with the work the label Discography:
did on your CD?
Patrik: As already mentioned the “Street Warrior” demo tape
contact to Pure Steel was via Heinz and (Private, 1987)
they liked what we did in the 80’s. Pure
Steel made the most possible out of the “No War” 12”single
material. There were no master tapes (Private, 1987)
and they had to re-master from a CD
which includes the two demos and the “Heavy Metal Battle” compilation LP
EP songs. So yes we are very happy (Breakin’ Records, 1989)
with the CD. It clearly is the first step
to get back on the market and if the “Break the Rules” demo tape
good feedback is continuing the chance (Private, 1989)
is high to see MORTICIAN back in the
studio and producing new material. We “No War and more” CD-r
have three new songs so far, all in our (Private, 1999)
old school way and sounding Metal to
the bone. “No War and more” CD
(Pure Steel, 2009)
The show at Up the Hammers is
part of some reunion gigs you are
doing for the release of the “No
War and More” CD or should we
expect a more “steady” MORTICIAN
presence in the future?
Patrik: Hopefully yes. It’s our strong
intention to be more constant on future
Classic Metal Festivals around Europe.
We are also looking for a professional
promoter to work with and we are
confident that due to our performance
at the Up the Hammers Festival the
attention will rise.
Did you make attempts to have ex-
members Jolly and Rene Bickel play
in this MORTICIAN line-up?
Patrik: When we started in spring 2009,
-33-
 “Into the valley of the kings”
NWOBHM legends PRAYING MANTIS are along with OVERDRIVE
the British contribution to UP THE HAMMERS festival! We sent a
couple (well not more than twenty actually!) of questions and
besides his very busy schedule, Chris Troy (bass & vocals) found
a little time to take a journey through their glorious days
and sent us a message that quality music knows no borders and
ages… Enjoy…

First of all congratulations for your
new album “Sanctuary”, a truly
masterpiece of melodic metal!
I’d like to share with us your first
thoughts about it?
Thanks so much, we too and our record
company also believe that it is one of
our strongest albums. There was a lot
of work involved but overall it was all
worth it in the end.
I’ve read in various magazines
and webzines enthusiastic reviews
concerning the new album and I
totally agree that “Sanctuary” is
probably the most well-balanced
and full of potentiality release
since the “Time tells no lies” days!
Are you generally satisfied by the
reaction of the fans and the sales
as well?
Very much so.... In all honesty the
reaction by the press and fans has been
amazing, and there is no doubt that we
have had the best reviews that we have
ever had for an album.
I think that your new singer Mike
Freeland gave to the band a fresh
air of renewal to the songs and
surely is one of the hidden aces in
PRAYING MANTIS’ sleeve! How did
you get in touch with him? Did he
get any experience before or not?
Indeed Mike has given the band new
impetus and I think his voice fits the bill
immaculately. We had known Mike for
many years and was in various bands.
It’s strange but because he was in other
bands we probably overlooked him for
many years. But there he was for all
those years right on our doorstep!!
journey goes on”?
That’s a good question…! I think it’s that
time goes to bloody quickly!! In that
time I have got married and had a lovely
child and maybe from my perspective,
music did take a slight sidestep. The
good thing is that sometimes you need
that little break to look at things from
a fresh perspective and then you can
come back stronger. Hopefully the album
“Sanctuary” is proof of that fact.
Are you generally satisfied by the
terms of collaboration with Frontiers
up to now?
In this day and age it is very difficult to
get what you really want from a record
company. However all things said, they
have been pretty good and have been
influential in the quality of the product.
Let me take you back in time for
a while… PRAYING MANTIS were
among SAXON, IRON MAIDEN,
DEF LEPPARD, SAMSON among the
others, the pioneers of NWOBHM
explosion… What do you recall from
your early days before the first
album?
Iron Maiden were no doubt the band
where we shared the most time. WE
supported them over a hundred times,
became very good friends and shared
some great memories. So much so
when members moved or were sacked
from Maiden, then Mantis would almost
certainly be their second home! (i.e.
Dennis Stratton, Paul Dianno, Clive
Burr).
Many people - including myself -
consider “Time tells no lies” one of
the milestones of that era! Do you
think that was the most memorable
moment of your career?
In some ways yes… The album went
down pretty well in many countries with
Japan being one of the main successes.
At one stage some people though we
might overtake Maiden in terms of
success!! …Well not quite.
What happened with Arrista Records
and parted ways soon after your
debut?
It’s too long ago to remember! From
what I recall they were a pretty good
company but I think they got pissed off
with our management, and who could
blame them!
You’ve played in many gigs during
the early 80’s so I’d like to give
us the whole atmosphere at your
concerts…
One of the highlights no doubt was
Reading festival in the early 80’s and that
was incredible. No matter what people
say, the shows/ festivals nowadays
do not come close to how they were
then... The whole atmosphere was just
incredible, bring back the 80’s!
Which were the main reasons that
led you to split up and why did you
released “Throwing shapes” under
the moniker of STRATUS?
Sometimes when a band goes quiet
people assume that you split up...
actually we had not split up at this
stage. Just went very quiet. Stratus was
a venture we did with Clive Burr (ex-Iron

Are you facing any kind of legal

problems concerning the cover of
the album? Would you like to give
us a few details about the lyrical
aspect of the songs?
I don’t think so!!!!........ Do you know
something that we don’t??? Ha ha… In
all honesty I really do like the album
cover - it is so dark, deep and mystical
and fits so many of the songs. As normal
there are many deep lyrics in the songs
on the album, as it’s always that style
that best befits the melodic music.

How do you define the current

musical direction of the band and
do you believe that NWOBHM lovers
will find it tempting?
In reality the music style is no different
from what it was 30 years ago and
any fans that have both albums will
appreciate that. Yes, I do believe
that the NWOBHM lovers will like it,
particularly those that like the real
melodic stuff.

Why did it take you almost 6 years

to record the follow up of “The

-34-
 hammers! luck for the future! The last words
belong to you.
Have you listened any new Thanks Gregory… We are looking
interesting band from England the forward immensely to the Hammers
last few months? Why pure heavy festival and hopefully the fans will prove
metal had this huge downfall after my memory of them being one of the
the ending of NWOBHM era? best in the world!!!
Not really, I tend to listen more to Gregory Baxevanidis
foreign bands.

Which are you initial plans and goals www.praying-mantis.com

for 2010?
Maiden). He had a different writing style
There are quite a few important shows
so instead of using the mantis name
coming up and then we will be preparing
we used Stratus, almost like a ‘splinter
for the new album later this year....
group’ - if that makes sense.
That will be a tough one as we need to
Was it nostalgia that pushed things
surpass “Sanctuary” and that may be DISCOGRAPHY:
quite a task as most fans have already
to reform the band in 1990?
pointed out. “Time Tells No Lies” - (1981)
No it was actually the 10th anniversary
on the NWOBHM. That’s when we
What do you think PRAYING MANTIS “Predator In Disguise” - (1991)
formed a half Maiden / Mantis band line
have to offer today? With all these
up (Dennis and Paul from Iron Maiden
reforming legends of the past, the “A Cry For The New World” - (1993)
– Tino, Bruce and me from Mantis)....
concerts and the re-releases of their “To The Power Of Ten” - (1995)
it was a phenomenal success there, and
old stuff, is it possible to witness a
rejuvenated our success particularly in
second wave of NWOBHM? “Forever In Time” - (1998)
Japan.
Of course.... Maybe it is already
happening. There is certainly a “Nowhere To Hide” - (2000)
How do you explain the fact that
resurgence of rock, and the melodic
PRAYING MANTIS reputation was
bands and their songs are stronger than “The Journey Goes On” - (2003)
always remarkable in Japan? Are
ever.
they any significant differences
Thank you so much for your time “Sanctuary” - (2009)
concerning the fans’ perception
and I wish you from heart good
about heavy metal?
There is no doubt that Japan has been
brilliant to us for so many years. I don’t
know quite why (!!!), but they do lap
up the British bands when particularly
when there is a strong melodic nature.
Naturally our album “Sanctuary” has
been received there very well indeed.

It’s a great pleasure that you’re

coming to Greece again! Which are
the memories that you have from
the last time?
Then, we had a mad vocalist!!.... I think
we were playing Thessalonica at the time
and the singer was not having a good
time with the monitors on stage!!!...
That is a wild understatement! During a
song in the middle of the set, he picked
up a very heavy monitor and hurled it
into the crowd! It could have really hurt
someone so we were pretty pissed off
about it at the time. Looking back on it
now, it was eventful.

Do you think that festivals such as

Up the Hammers are some kind of
test for bands that made and impact
20 or more years ago?
We will see... ha ha. If I recall the
Greek fans are incredible, and I do so
hope they have not changed. I like them
loud, boisterous singing the chorus’ of
the songs very loudly!! ...roll on the

-35-
They came, they saw... will they conquer once again?
SAVAGE GRACE needs no introduction. One of the Legends of US Metal they
certainly left their mark having released albums that are ‘up there’ in the
Elite of Metal albums. At first I thought of making a very detailed SAVAGE
GRACE, but looks like my friend Laurent Ramadier was faster, so a huge
SAVAGE GRACE interview will be published in Snakepit 18, so be sure to
check it! After this turn of events I decided to make it an article spanning
their career. Many of the vintage photos/flyers used were taken from the
myspace site of Ripping Headache. On hold of the band’s European tour and
their next steps, enjoy what I consider a short (but complete for its size)
story of the band.

The history of the band goes back as
early as 1981, when Christian Logue,
decided to quit playing covers with
his band, TIT SQUEEZE and formed
MARQUIS DE SADE. The name quickly
changed, but the band recorded a
demo with Kelly Rhoads (who was
Randy’s brother…) on vocals at Stone
Fox Studios (North Hollywood).
SAVAGE GRACE was born and the first
demo was recorded in Arizona in the
summer of 1982, with Dwight Cliff on
vocals. The songs on it were “Curse the
Night”, “Genghis Khan” and “Scepters
of Deceit”. The latter was chosen by
the band for inclusion in the “Metal
Massacre volume II” compilation LP
(Metal Blade, January 1983).
One month later, Kenny Powell, who
had come from Oklahoma to play/form
a band, was introduced to Christian
through Steve Witting (later with OMEN)
who had played before with SAVAGE
GRACE. The band rehearsed and soon
entered the studio to record at Track
Record studios (California) what would
become “The Dominatress” EP (August
1983) with new vocalist John Birk, 18
years at the time. The band continued
playing shows, also on support of the
debut vinyl release. The band played
in early 1984 in San Francisco with
SLAYER and EXODUS (at Mabuhay
Gardens and Ruthies Inn). After these
two shows, John Birk not being able
to control himself over some personal
issues was kicked out of the band.
Shortly after, Kenny Powell, frustrated
with the band not using songs he had
written (he presented them “Die by the
Blade” and “Battle Cry”), decided to
leave and form his own band (OMEN,
for those still wondering).
Enter Mike Smith (vocals), with whom
the band recorded two songs, “Betrayer”
and “No one left to blame” to see how
SAVAGE GRACE sounded with him and
possibly attract label interest as they
sent out a few copies. These recordings
are known as “1984 demo”, although
the band as explained never intended
to make it available. Kurt Phillips (ex-
WITCHKILLER) was handling the guitar
chores at the time. The band decided to
self-produce “Master of Disguise” and
entered Sutton Place studios with Kurt
Phillips, who didn’t record though, so
all guitars were performed by Christian
Logue.
The album was released in September
1985, in the US from Erika/Important
Records and in Europe from Black
Dragon records, sporting slightly
different covers. The same month,
SAVAGE GRACE played in Germany
at Loreley in Metal Hammer Festival
(along with METALLICA, VENOM and
RUNNING WILD among others). Former
AGENT STEEL guitarist, Mark Marshall
joined the band soon after the album’s
release. Another line-up change took
place, Dan Finch (drums) was replaced
by Mark Marcum while Mike Smith
left the band despite the European
tour that Black Dragon had booked
for the band. It was then decided that
Christian Logue would sing instead. The
first European tour of the band followed
with the band playing in countries like
Holland and Germany that were really
important for underground US bands
like SAVAGE GRACE at the time.
“After the Fall from Grace” was
recorded in Wayne Cook studios and
released in June 1986 and became
their best-selling LP. “After the fall
from Grace” was also released in Japan
from VAP Records. Black Dragon had
booked a European tour with HEIR
APPARENT (who had released “Graceful
Inheritance” the same year) but the
tour ended up a financial disaster for
the label. SAVAGE GRACE parted ways
with them soon after but for unknown
reasons so far, since the band has never
stated anything negative for them in
interviews.
Brian East, a very important part of
SAVAGE GRACE left and was replaced
by Derek Peace (ex-HEIR APPARENT),
whom the band had met on the 1986
European tour. With him the band

-36-
recorded “Ride into the Night”, a 4-track
picture EP, released by Flametrader (the
label division of European distributor
Semaphore) in 1987. The EP included
three originals and a “Burn” (DEEP
PURPLE) cover that the band had been
playing for years, an idea of Mike Smith
and Mark Marshall. There was another
Japan license through VAP Records
once more, but the band failed to be on
time for the deadline (one week late!)
and so this never materialized.
After the EP, the band signed with a new
management company and continued
playing gigs. An important point in the
band’s career was the tour they did
with MOTÖRHEAD for 20 to 25 dates
throughout April 1987, with MALICE
also playing in some of them. The
band relocated to Georgia (for a while),
Derek Peace left the band and thus the
band was looking for a replacement.
SAVAGE GRACE spent 1988 working on
new material with a new musical (more
mid-tempo) direction already decided.
Festivals as well as shows along OMEN.
It’s in Christian’s intentions to re-mix
and reissue “Master of Disguise”, so let’s
wait and see what the future will hold
for these US Power Metal Veterans.
Kostas Kailiazis
Discography:
(we only mention the compilations
with unreleased tracks and official
or promotional demos, not pre-
recordings etc.)
“1982 demo”
(Private, 1982)
“Metal Massacre volume II”
compilation LP
(Metal Blade, 1983)

The band moved finally to New York in “The Dominatress” EP

late 1988 (after signing a deal with a NY (Metal Blade, 1983)
based management company), signaling
the departure of Mark Marshall, who left “Master of Disguise” LP
feeling burned out from the constant (Erika/Important, 1985)
changes. The band gigged a lot locally
(playing with bands like HELIX and “After the fall from Grace” LP
CIRCUS OF POWER among others), but (Black Dragon, 1986)
the style was already altered a lot (both
lyrically and musically), as heard on the “Ride into the Night” EP
10-track demo the band recorded (in (Flametrader, 1987)
an alternative Rock style). An MCA deal
was to be signed but the band declined. “10 track demo”
In 1992 the band relocated to Los (Private, 1992)
Angeles with Christian Logue feeling
exhausted and the other members “American Metal-Heavy ‘N’ Dirty”
going their separate ways. compilation CD
(Eurostar Schallplatten, 1993)
In 1995/1996, Black Dragon reissued
the band’s catalogue (with the exception “The Dominatress
of “Ride into the Night”) which led to Master of Disguise” CD
a renewed interest in the band as well (Black Dragon, 1995)
as endless speculations and rumors
regarding Christian Logue. After many “After the fall from Grace” CD
years of silence, he decided to reform (Black Dragon, 1996)
SAVAGE GRACE and tour Europe in
March/April 2010, playing in various

-37-
 “Farther than Yesterday”
I guess that SLAUTER XSTROYES need no introduction to underground
Metal maniacs. Their only “official” release, “Winterkill” has reached
legendary status through the years, and with a just cause. “Free the
Beast”, a compilation CD consisting of their 1987 album sessions and
various tracks is so far their second and last release. The music of this
band must be heard to believed, in my opinion they are one of the very
few bands, that liking (or appreciating them if you like) them is not a
matter of taste, but a matter of knowing two things about music. The
musicianship that these guys had/have is something unreal. In honour
of their first ever European performance in Up the Hammers V, we have
prepared a small tribute. Special thanks to Laurent Ramadier for his help
(the bulk of the info was taken from the killer interview he did in Snakepit
#14) and Brent Sullivan who was kind enough to send me some special
unreleased so far photos especially for this tribute. Put “Free the Beast”
in your stereos, crank it up and enjoy!

-38-
In 1980, Brent Sullivan answering an ad placed by Paul Kratky joins NAJ, a band
which featured Paul Kratky (guitars), Ken Shembarger (guitars), Eddie Moravec
(drums) and John Hill on vocals. Their style was described by Brent as “Heavy Rock
and Roll like BLACK SABBATH”. During the NAJ days, “Mass Confusion” was written
by the band (an early version of “Winterkill” which ca be found on the “Free the
Beast” CD). This was the only song from the pre-SLAUTER XSTROYES days that was
used.

After NAJ, Brent Sullivan and Ed Moravec joined WHITE WITCH, a band which
featured John Stewart on vocals.

Brent Sullivan, Paul Kratky, Ed Moravec and Jerry Klein (guitars on WHITE WITCH)
formed the band which was to become SLAUTER XSTROYES. Interesting to add is
how the band came up with such a name. Initial thought was “Slauter and Destroy”,
which later became “Slauter Xstroydes” and in the end SLAUTER XSTROYES. John
Stewart was recruited on vocals and Jerry Klein left, so the band was left as a 4
piece. Ed Moravec was replaced in 1983 by Ed Pukstys and later by Dave Bonow
(ex-NO MERCY).

1985 and the band enters Orlando Park to record what became “Winterkill”. At the
time King Klassic Records (pre-Monster/Rockadrome and then publishers of the
Midwest Militia fanzine) wanted to release the LP, but no deal was made. The band
decided to release it themselves in an edition of 500 copies. After its release, the
band started playing more often live shows, making small radio interviews etc.

In 1986, “No Idea” was included in “Chicago Metal Works volume I” (released
by local label, Silver Fin Records). The band chose this particular track due to its
duration (they only had 4 minutes and they didn’t want to edit their other tracks)
and also because they thought that this choice would open them some doors, due to
the song’s “commercial” nature. The band continued playing live shows, which were
always improving in terms of stage show etc.

In 1987, the band enters Solid Sound studios to record their second album. Lack of
funds led to the album not being fully mixed. The “Free the Beast” sessions were
released in 1998 by Monster Records (and once more in 2009 by its forerunner,
Rockadrome), but both times, one of the album’s songs (and really one of their best
tracks), “Saint’s Revenge” was never included for unknown reasons.

Tension was more evident in the band, which led Brent Sullivan to call it quits. The
band continued on for two more years, but it was evident that the unique chemistry
these 4 guys had was lost.

Brent joined SQUADRON, while Paul was involved with projects such as SPECIAL ED
and JOHNY CHAINSAW. John was doing the ENERGY VAMPIRES thing at the time
(assisted by Brent Sullivan and Ed Moravec on a show). In 1991, Paul, Brent and Ed
jammed for a solo project Brent was pulling off, but this fell through quickly. At the
same time though, the three of them rehearsed NAJ and SLAUTER XSTROYES songs,
plus new ideas which were going to be recorded, but this never materialized.

In late 1991, Brent joined ENERY VAMPIRES, which at the time featured Tony
Rios (drums) and Vernon Voss (guitar). Brent convinced them to reform SLAUTER
XSTROYES with John accepting. This didn’t work though as the band decided to kick
John Stewart after he arrived at a band’s concert supporting SAVATAGE (August
1991) after they had already completed more than half their show with instrumental
versions and Brent doing some vocals.

Then came Randy Baron (vocals, TYRANT’S REIGN) which joined for a short period
of time, in which the band played live shows until the end of the year when the band
was renamed to WINTER KILL, due to the fact that the sound was not the same as
in the past.

In 1997, Paul Kratky was approached by Dennis Bergeron and Phil Baker (RIP),
who at the time were having Monster Records/Rare Ass mail-order (previously
Midwest Militia fanzine/King Klassic Records) for a “Winterkill” reissue on LP (1997)
and CD (1998/1999). The album got triumphant reviews in all underground Metal
publications and led many fans discover this very obscure (at the time) album. As a
result, the original pressing of “Winterkill” has become one of the most wanted and
expensive US Metal LP’s.

Soon after (1998), “Free the Beast” was unleashed to the Metal world. This CD
included the “Free the Beast” album sessions (1987) plus songs from earlier stages
of the band. As stated inside the CD booklet, Paul, Brent and Ed were jamming with
the goal of releasing a new CD including old and new SLAUTER XSTROYES, but this
didn’t move any further than some rehearsals due to Ed’s (once more) inability to
dedicate the time needed.

The band once more followed different paths, with Brent releasing albums with
WINTER KILL, SPIRIT WEB and NDX. But in 2009, Paul Kratky and Brent Sullivan
would reform SLAUTER XSTROYES. What will follow is another story. Part of it you
can read in the interview done with Brent Sullivan in the next pages...

-39-
2009 was the year that SLAUTER XSTROYES unreal voice, certainly one of the 10 best Metal singers
returned. For some this means nothing, for ever!), so are you and Paul and I really can’t understand
this point. What’s your opinion?
others, it’s just another band reforming. Brent: John without a doubt, is our brother, a great singer
For me it was something special, as SLAUTER and a part of what SLAUTER XSTROYES was. I will say this
though. Some have said the same here and after those who
XSTROYES is one of my all time favorite bands.
have witnessed the couple of shows we’ve done with Steve,
As a “continuation” of the tribute above, I those thoughts were put to rest. I guess we’ll just have to
sent some questions to Brent Sullivan as to prove that as well in Greece. We would have never done this in
the first place if we did feel we could find a singer to pull it off.
what the band is about nowadays, as well as We have, and I promise you, no one will be disappointed.
their future plans. Brent proved once more
what a great guy he is since he replied in less When and how did you find your new singer, Steve
Reimer? Has he participated in any other bands prior to
than a day (!!!) in my (late) questions and photo SLAUTER XSTROYES?
requests, himself also having a busy schedule. Brent: He has been a long time friend of all of ours and he’s
played in some bands around here. The names I’m not sure of
right now. The last thing he was doing was an IRON MAIDEN
Tribute band. He has been around SLAUTER XSTROYES since
What has occurred in the SLAUTER XSTROYES camp
the beginning, even one of his bands played before us so he’s
in the last years?
no stranger to the band.
Brent: Well, the most I can really remember is that as we
started to grow as a band, get more professional in what we
Were Ed Moravec and Dave Bonow, considered in this
were doing, we just found John getting more inconsistent
new attempt?
with his performances. He rarely showed up to practice,
Brent: Ed is a good drummer but just too unreliable. Dave was
which in the beginning never bothered us because we would
considered and asked but I think he has a lot of medical issue
just write more music. But, as we we’re trying to play live
he’s dealing with.
more, it was doing more harm as a whole. I just kind of
just got sick of it one day I guess. With that being said, we
What about the new drummer, Rik Kroll?
have always loved John as a brother but it was just the way
Brent: Rik Kroll can be considered one of the original
it went down.
drummers. He was in the band the final 2 years. Although he
never recorded with us, he has done most of our live shows
After the initial split there have been several attempts
with us.
to reform SLAUTER XSTROYES, but things didn’t move
further? What changed this time?
Who took the decision of reissuing the albums? Do you
Brent: We just couldn’t get the timing right. Either I was
like the work Rockadrome did in the reissues?
too busy with other bands or Paul would be. Then I moved
Brent: We were asked about it and let Dennis at Rockadome
to Florida for a couple of years. Other reasons were that
reissue them. He did a fine job at it.
we couldn’t reach John at the time and just felt it wouldn’t
be the same without him. The thing that changed this time
I would like to ask a few things about “Free the Beast”.
was I moved back to Chicago and I was no longer with
The first question concerns the “Saint’s Revenge” track,
MINDWARP CHAMBER so that left me with more time on my
a song appearing on tapes with the “Free the Beast”
hands. Although, I am still with The David Shankle Group
sessions. Why was this song omitted from both versions
as well, that really hasn’t done much at this time, nor will
of the CD? For me it’s one of your 3-4 best songs (if not
it interfere anyways. Also, we had the chance to get a local
the best!)
singer, Steve Reimer that is doing a great job replacing
John. Again, it was just the right time.

Why wasn’t John Stewart involved in this?

Brent: John was asked, but the first time he wasn’t interested
in playing out. We have passed tapes back and forth to see
what he would sound like nowadays but it really did nothing
for us. Not to mention it took him almost a year just to give
us a rough idea on one song. We just don’t have that kind
of time, hell, we would be dead by the time a new CD would
be done at that rate..(laughs). With him living in Las Vegas
and no internet, it’s just impossible to do. Not to mention, I
believe he has some personal issues that prevent him from
leaving the country so with all that, it just can’t be done.

I would like to touch a sensitive subject. There are

some fans that claim that there can’t be no SLAUTER
XSTROYES without John Stewart on vocals. In my
opinion, although John is a huge part of the SLAUTER
XSTROYES (not only in the sense that every singer
is linked to his band, but because John has/had an

-40-
Brent: To be honest with you, I couldn’t really tell you. But, it’s
probably a good thing because we we’re thinking of redoing
that song for the new CD anyways.
Another one concerns the lyrics. Why weren’t they
included?
Brent: I’m not sure, maybe because we didn’t have the lyrics
to “Free The Beast” and didn’t want to try and figure them all
out.
SLAUTER XSTROYES has unreleased material enough
to fill 3 albums (maybe more!). is it in your imminent
plans to record them and release them? I mean it would
only be fair that songs like “Glacier”, “It”, “Came to
bright Lights”, “The Creator”, “Witch’s Honor”, “Deep
blue Dreams” and so many others to be recorded and
presented to SLAUTER XSTROYES fans.
Brent: Wow, you mentioned some old titles there. I’m surprised
you know of them. Yes, we do plan to rework a lot of the songs
for the new CD. We will probably do half with unreleased music
and write new songs as well. “Glacier” and “Witches Honor”
are among some we’ve talked about doing.
fade. It’s just better that way, trust me.
Final thoughts and words are yours. We would only
like to thank you for the music that you have given
us, and wish you the best for both personal and band
future.
Brent: I would just like to personally thank you and everyone
out there that have supported our music whether it’s
SLAUTER XSTROYES or separate bands we’ve individually
been involved with. It has been our pleasure and honor, and
we only hope we can continue to make much more music
for everyone and this time. Plus, play many other different
counties!
Kostas Kailiazis
www.myspace.com/slauterxtroyesmusic
Discography
“Winterkill” LP
(Private, 1985/Monster, 1997)

How did it feel to be on stage with each other after all “Free the Beast” CD
these years in the Halloween 2009 reunion show? (Monster, 1998/Rockadrome, 2009)
Brent: It was great, we had a great time and the response has
been unbelievable after all these years. “Winterkill” CD
(Monster, 1999, Rockadrome, 2009)
Illinois used to have a massive scene back in the 80’s, in
my opinion one of the best states in the USA concerning
Classic Metal. How are things nowadays? And what do
you think the differences are?
Brent: It’s not the same as it was but there are still some great
bands in Chicago. Classic metal, not so much though.

What should we expect from SLAUTER XSTROYES in the

very near future?
Brent: A new CD by Fall of 2010, and a new one every year for
as long as we can keep going (e.note: just imagine…).

There is a rumor that SLAUTER XSTROYES will perform

the Keep it True Festival in 2011 with John Stewart in
the lineup. Is this true?
Brent: No, I don’t see that happening. For one thing, we will be
recording a new CD with Steve and supporting that CD, so that
would make it hard to do with John. Anything is possible but I
wouldn’t count on it. I’m really hoping when the new CD comes
out, people will embrace Steve and the whole John thing will

-41-
wild knight
WILD KNIGHT. A new name in the Metal scene, but with two members whose History goes way back.
They are no other than Frank Knight (X WILD) and Majk Moti (RUNNING WILD). Their debut should be
out in 2010, but until then the band has decided to play across Europe classic RUNNING WILD/X WILD
tracks. Initial plan was to have the questions below answered by both Frank and Majk, but Frank
didn’t reply due to a busy schedule on time, so we only have Majk’s answers.
How the whole WILD KNIGHT thing
did come into thought? Who came
up with the name and why was it
chosen?
Majk: All this came about by the idea
of Bart Gabriel, our manager (e.note:
the latest news is that both parties are
no longer working together). He asked
Frank Knight, Jens Becker and Stefan
Schwarzmann about the idea to reunite
X WILD, but Jens and Stefan were too
much involved in their own projects.
Frank agreed and decided to work
with the members of his own band,
JACKHAMMER, and again Bart had the
idea to look for another guitarist to
complete the lineup. Bart asked me and
arranged contact. Since there was only
one original member of X WILD now,
Bart proposed to change the name and
came up with the idea of WILD KNIGHT,
which we all accepted.
 
How did you hook up with each
other?
Majk: Frank and I talked for quite some
time via e-mail and then we had a
video conference. We agreed to meet
in England and found out, that we like
each other a lot, and that includes all
the other band members as well. We
had a rehearsal and found out, that
there is a lot of harmony amongst us,
and so everything was in line.
Please present to our readers any
other activities you were involved
after “Wild Animal” (1990).
Majk: After RUNNING WILD I played in a
SEX PISTOLS Revival Band for a couple
of years, just for fun, and another Rock
‘n’ Roll band, but I can’t remember the
name. Later on I focused on my career
as a software developer, which I have
pursued until 2008, when I decided to
return to music.
If we take into consideration that
Majk used to be RUNNING WILD
guitarist during their best period
and that Frank sang for X WILD, a
band consisting of ex - Running Wild
members with a sound very similar,
what should we expect from Wild
Knight?
Majk: Definitely not a band that sounds
like RUNNING WILD. Rolf’s style is quite
unique and we have no intention of
referring to that. I had some influence
on the style of “Death or Glory” and
even “Port Royal”, but you should not
expect me to write songs that sound like
RUNNING WILD/Rolf. And keep in mind:
Now there are three other experienced
musicians (Rob Ronson, Simon
Strangeway and Robin Hazlehurst), who
never had anything to do with RUNNING
WILD. Every member of the band will
have influence on the songwriting, as
it should be in every vivid
band.
 
On the same train of
thought, don’t you think
that your legacy is “heavy”
but also linked with
RUNNING WILD in such
a way that comparisons
shall be inevitable, plus
fans expectations will be
very high?
Majk: Well, comparisons are
there all the time, but to be
quite frankly: I don’t give
a rip of what other people
think. I don’t mean to be
rude here, but I have my
own ideas and people either
like them or not, but I would
still do everything my way.
And I believe, all the other
members of the band think
along that line, too. We’d be
very happy if even RUNNING
WILD fans would like our
style, but that is no reason
to accept any “legacy”.
 
What’s your opinion on
X WILD? Had you heard
their albums before
forming WILD KNIGHT?
Majk: Can’t say much about
it. I knew there were there
-42-
at that time, but I did not listen.
 
On your myspace website, there is
an announcement about the debut
full length in 2010. can you give
us some more details? Label, style
etc.?
Majk: Nope, not yet decided at this
time. We will reveal any information
about those issues on our website as
soon as possible.
Why did you decide to “kick-off” the
band’s life with concerts where you
will perform X WILD / RUNNING
WILD songs? I mean, I understand
the fact that many fans want to
see this (me included mates, both
hands raised!!!!) but wouldn’t it
be better to have a debut / demo
and present originals to the fans
rather than playing “covers” (they
are not covers in the strict sense of
the word, I hope you get my point).
Have you thought the “danger” of
being established as a “cover” band
to the hearts and minds of Metal
fans before your debut?
Majk: Basically I agree about the
“danger”, but it is so much fun to play
live, that we could not resist. If you
keep in mind that I live in Germany
and the rest of the band in England, it
is not easy to work on a new album.
It can be done, but we found out that
personal contact and practicing a lot is
a much more natural way of doing it.
So we decided to take the longer way in
order to ensure a natural product in the
end. At the same time we just love to
play live, and I have to say, that doing
so also improves the relationship with
my mates in England. I never had so
much pleasure and fun playing live as
with those guys, honestly. I will move to
England in July 2010, and of course we
have already written a couple of songs
for the record. Not very long time after
my tenancy changeover to Chorley we
will record the CD and then see, what
happens.
 
Seeing how crowded the Metal
scene seems to be in the recent
years, what will you think that will
be WILD KNIGHT’s position in it?
Majk: Well, on top of the European
Metal Scene, selling millions of records,
of course :-)
 
Thanks a lot for your time. We wish
you the best for the future of the
band. We will talk again when the
debut CD is out.
Majk: You’re welcome, it was my pleasure
Kostas Kailiazis
www.myspace.com/wildknightofficial
 “The Years of Piracy”
Since Majk played in RUNNING WILD for many years (plus the band performs classic RUNNING WILD
tracks on their concerts), so I asked Majk some questions concerning his past that didn’t “fit” in
the WILD KNIGHT interview. Below, enjoy what Majk said (and didn’t say) in this small feature about
his ex-band.

(Jan Nemec). I would have loved to

continue right in that way and develop
our style even further, but unfortunately
Rolf disagreed and started to dismantle
the band.

“Wild Animal” EP (Noise, 1990)

Majk: Just a mini CD with material that
was not included into “Death or Glory”.

If someone notices the credits in the

LP’s you participated, will note that
you have penned few songs. Was
this because Rolf wanted to have
total control over the material/
direction?

Majk: Well, that is a valid description.

When I joined the band, everything was
basically controlled by our manager,
who supported Rolf beyond description.
And everybody believed, the record
company would think right along the
same line. But as a matter of fact, if we
had not fired our manager and changed
our style, as we did with “Port Royal”, our
contract would not have been renewed
after “Under Jolly Roger”. After that Rolf
could not deny other influences for quite
some time, but obviously he managed to
regain control after a couple of years.
 
What was the reason you left/ followed a lot of fan discussions about
kicked out of RUNNING WILD? the development of RUNNING WILD
over the last few years, and I would say,
You played in RUNNING WILD Majk: Regarding the reasons of me it was a logical step.
during what is considered by most leaving the band Rolf and I agreed to
fans as their best period, the years keep it confident, and I have no intention Kostas Kailiazis
1985-1990 (“Branded and Exiled” of breaking that agreement.
to “Death or Glory”). Can you please
comment on each album? Have you followed
their career after
“Branded and Exiled” LP (Noise, 1985) you left?
Majk: I hooked up with the band one
week before the recordings started and Majk: For quite
just played a couple of solos. Not exactly some time, yes. I
my favorite album. even had long talks
with Rolf after Axel
“Under Jolly Roger” LP (Noise, 1987) Morgan left the
Majk: The first attempt to get away band, discussing
from the old death and demons image a possible return
into the idea of metal pirates. Although to the band. But
I did not like the sound of the album, I we found out that
think it was a good start for the pirate almost the same
thing. disagreements were
still in place, so it
“Ready for Boarding” LP (Noise, 1988) did not happen.
Majk: Basically a recording from a live
tour. There has been a lot of friendship RUNNING WILD
on that tour. has officially
disbanded after
“Port Royal” LP (Noise, 1988) their farewell
Majk: The first record as a real band. show in Wacken
The impact of Jens Becker and Stefan Festival 2009.
Schwarzmann was huge, and for the What are your
first time since “Gates To Purgatory” Rolf thoughts?
could not deny other people’s influence
and songwriting. Very important step Majk: Other than
for the development of the band. being surprised
and somewhat
“Death or Glory” LP (EMI, 1989) impressed, that
Majk: To me it was a huge step into Rolf made it for
the right direction. We started to so long, I cannot
become a real band, every musician say that I had very
made contributions and we had a very special thoughts
experienced and skilled sound engineer about that. I have

-43-

There are thousand of reasons
one can recall to answer a
question like “What is it that
you like in Heavy Metal music?”
Anyone really into this, would
mention among an endless list
of reasons the interminable
thirst to discover new unburied
treasures this music had offered.
There is not a single second that
you will listen to a new or newly
discovered band of the past with
worthwhile musical material
and that you can say, “Ok, I’ve
got enough for now, I think I’m
full and complete”, nor that the
sounds of a mind-blowing act
with recordings 10,15 or even
20 and more years back would
sound obsolete. Not when you
are a true fan, appreciating
music itself and not what stupid
narrow-minded so-called music
experts working for major labels
and magazines will demand
that is Heavy Metal that you
should listen to at this time,
till something new comes up
of course. That’s the case with
the band featured here. Hailing
from Denmark, FORCE MAJEURE
is a band that managed to offer
a perfect mixture of US Metal
with Euro Steel, an achievement
of a combination scarcely seen
in the European scene. Cause
of the recent re-release of the
three demo tapes they had out
that  Greek label Steel Legacy
took over, axeman Jesper
Schmidt, along with the essential
assistance and comments of 
his comrades, drummer Morten
Nielsen and singer Dennis
Peterssen, accomplished to get
away safe and sound from a
thorough interrogation about all
that concerns the past, present
and future of this  newcoming
old act. Here is what the poor
guys said under heavy pressure
of a desperate fan and let’s
hope for a follow up as bright
as the album that recently came
into light.
How was the band formed in the
first place? Members, name etc.?
Jesper: We started as a trio with
Morten (Drums), Michael Groennemose
(guitar), and myself. We were changing
band names every other week, I believe
we were called CRANIUM at some point.
:-) Allan Soerensen, a member of
Morten´s old band, joined on bass. We
found vocalist Rene Gade through an
ad in the paper. We were 15-16 at the
time, and we settled for the band name
APOCALYPSE. But Allan and Rene left to
form their own band, so we were back
to trio-format again.
When did FORCE MAJEURE not only
as a name, but a complete band
came into the picture?
Jesper: The three of us thought: “Fuck-
if ANYTHING is going to happen, we’ve
got to do SOMETHING”. So we booked
studio time for a demo. We called up Al
and Rene and asked if they would play
on the demo as session musicians. They
agreed and the horrible “Out in the night”
demo was recorded live in one day and
mixed within the same evening. Horrible
as it was, it still got us in touch with
Bums Records. We recorded 2 tracks
for a Danish metal compilation “Metal
Outlet”. Peter Thorslund had joined on
bass then, and we borrowed Maltese
Falcon’s Singer Charlie for the vocals. We
still needed a permanent singer though,
so we found Per Onink through an add
in the paper. Per quickly suggested a
new band name – FORCE MAJEURE,
which we immediately adopted. In
1988 we entered the studio to do our
first “real” demo. It turned out really
well, actually! The band really needed
an extra guitarist for the gigs, so Tonni
Rahm joined. He was the hottest guitar
player in Copenhagen at the time, so it
was quite a scoop for us.
Did any band members took part
in  other bands on the local scene,
before or after FORCE MAJEURE?
Jesper: After FORCE MAJEURE, I was
in FURIOUS TRAUMA for 8 months.
About the other members now…Per
Onink was actually the original singer
in ARTILLERY. After FORCE MAJEURE,
he joined STONEHENGE, later known
as NARITA. Peter is still active with
ARTILLERY today. Michael Rasmussen -
the bass player from demo III, used to
play in ARTILLERY. Quite weird!?! Tommy
used to play in CRYSTAL KNIGHT. Tonni
-44-
came from SUITE 16, and after FORCE
MAJEURE, he was briefly with ROYAL
HUNT, and later with PRIME TIME.
Morten: I have played with numerous
bands since FORCE MAJEURE: FURIOUS
TRAUMA, ZOZER MEZ, MERCYFUL FATE
and RED WARSZAWA (where I still
play).
Dennis: I used to front my own band
NOISE ATTACK and DISASTER and also
played in a pop rock band called NO BAD
FEELINGS for 4 years.
So, let’s dig deep into the band’s
bio.You recorded your first 4-track
demo tape on 1988. How did the
press and audience responded at
the first attempt of a newcoming
band?
Jesper: Really well! We got fairly good
reviews, we were even elected “demo
of the month” in German “Breakout”-
magazine. As for fans, hmm...I think
we were more known as a live act back
then. For some reason, FORCE MAJEURE
had always been a “musician’s” band ,
in the sense that we were really praised
by other Danish bands, but we never
really had a huge fan base amongst
“common” headbangers.
What was the situation like back
then concerning newcoming bands
in Denmark, since you were at a
transient stage with bands such as
PRETTY MAIDS promoting a more
melodic and “light” sound than
yours. Was it easy for you to get
along with that “current” and stand
out in some way?
Jesper: I remember it as a time when
thrash was really the  upcoming thing.
Growl vocals and detuned guitars were
really the happening thing, so we were
sort of in an empty space between thrash
and more melodic hard rock/metal. To
this day, few Danish bands use melodic
vocals. And those who do, are having a
hard time. But it seems like 80’s metal
is having a revival these days.
Trying to make a break and keep you
motivated for more was out of the
question or you were aiming to gain
“professional” status by signing a
contract with a record label would
probably be your prime goal? Since
things didn’t come that easy, did
you go on composing music for your
own sake and your fans or you tried
harder to achieve your goals?
Jesper: To be completely honest, we
would obviously have LOVED to get
a deal back then. But it was never a
question of do or die. We would still
play, with or without a deal. No one in
the band had any ambition of making a
living from music, it would just be a cool
bonus if this happened. We definitely
wrote music for our own sake, music we
liked. And then, maybe someone else
would like it, too.
A year later, a 3-track demo tape
followed. Did you ever thought
about changing musical direction in
order to “go with the flow” and gain
larger publicity?
Jesper: We’ve never speculated in
musical direction, really. Any change
of sound would come because of new
inspirations the band members had
acquitted. A change of taste, you might
say. At the time the songs for demo II
were recorded,  we were  listening to
heavier stuff at home. The song “Eternal
Sleep”, for instance - It is fair to say it
is “slightly” HELSTAR-sounding. It is
almost embarrassing!!(e.note: not to
my ears at least)  hear some of your new material, with
Recording-wise, FORCE MAJEURE
remained idle after the 2nd demo,
What were your activities in-
between the first two releases?
Jesper: Between demo I and II, we were
really optimistic. Tonni joined, and we
really kicked ass as a live band. French
label Black Dragon showed interest in
the band, but nothing came from it. We
were invited to Holland to negotiate with
Dutch label, Ivory Tower Records. They
wanted us, but we said no, believing
something better would turn up. It
didn’t! After demo II, things were a bit
frustrating; Per and Peter left. It was
really hard to get a melodic singer in
those days, if not to say: Impossible. So
the band was laid to rest.
But then we move on to 1991 after
that short pause, when any metal
attempts were discouraged due to
lack of interest all over the world.
Then you release another great
demo tape consisting of 4 tracks.
Being part of the strong underground
movement all this time, you decided
to go on with this demo. What was
the original idea? A final attempt to
make the big break? The previously
mentioned offers to make a record
deal that fell apart did not inhibit
you from chasing you dream?
Jesper: A new line-up was quickly
gathered for demo III, because Dirk
Steffens showed interest in the band.
He had read about us in Breakout,
and called us up. “Can you send me a
demo?” Sure! We actually lied, and said
the band was still existing. We came up
with fake band members on bass and
vocals. Morten and I shared a two-room
apartment at the time, and we sent a
demo, thinking nothing would happen
anyway.
So, the 3rd demo came out
accidentally in a way? Pure luck?
You mean it?
Jesper: YES!! We had completely
forgotten about it. 3 weeks later, on
a Sunday, Morten and I were chilling
watching TV, with a serious hangover
from the night before. The phone rang,
it was Dirk: “Nice demo, guys! Let me
the new line-up”. As you can imagine,
this was sort of a problem for us: There
was no band, and no new material!
But quickly we got Dennis and Michael
Rasmussen to join, and new song were
written and recorded with light speed.
And a couple of weeks later, we sent the
tunes to Germany.
Why did FORCE MAJEURE disband at
last?
Jesper: Dirk Steffens came to see us live
in Denmark. We did a pretty lousy gig,
it was embarrassing. Michael left, he
was replaced by Bo Lund on bass. Then
Morten left to play with ZOZER MEZ. He
was replaced by Allan Soerensen, later
NARITA/ROYAL HUNT. Then Dennis got
tired with the whole thing, and left.
Phew, it was just to hard to keep the
faith. And without Morten and Dennis,
it really wouldn’t be FORCE MAJEURE.
I finally called up Dirk, and said “Let’s
forget about it”. I think we were all a
little ashamed to be so unprofessional
in front such a professional guy. So we
“died” again.
What is the lyrical content of your
songs?
Jesper: On the first two demos, Per
Onink wrote all the lyrics. Actually,
when Steel Legacy asked me to send
the lyrics, I had to transcribe them as
best I could, from mp3 files. It was
really hard. And hilarious, too! There
were a few topics metal bands could
always write about: War/why?, don’t do
drugs, save the rainforest. And for some
reason it was trendy to be scared of the
improving technology. A lot of bands
made doomsday lyrics about this, and
we did too: “Technical Solution”. Other
than that, I think Per wrote fantasy-like
lyrics, typical of metal bands at the time.
It really wasn’t until Dennis joined, that
lyrics started to matter. Before Dennis,
lyrics were more or less something
that HAD to be written,  so the singer
wouldn’t go “la-la-la”. A necessary evil,
almost. After Dennis joined, vocals
were treated with much higher priority.
On the previous demos, it was sort of
a bunch of metal riffs linked together,
with vocals on top. Now it was more
vocals with Metal underneath, if you
know what I mean? The melody line for
-45-
vocals were a top priority. We wrote the
lyrics together, or Dennis would write
something that fitted the melody line.
And what about the lyrics in the
third and last demo?
Dennis: “Phantom Soul” is about a
love/hate relationship. We actually had
junk-addicts in mind for this one. “The
Fortress” is about alienation from your
surroundings, and being depressive as
a result. It’s funny, many years later,
I have days were I can really relate to
this one. “Take-off” is just a story of this
pilot  crashing with his plane, and his
thoughts while crashing/dying. “Crime
academy” is about staying out of trouble
with the law. Although no one in the
band has ever had as much as a parking
offence.
Can you give me the names of a
few bands that were influential to
FORCE MAJEURE?
Jesper: As for musical influences, I
always liked prog-rock with a pompous
sound. In my teens, my favourite
bands were SAGA and KANSAS, and
later DIXIE DREGGS and ELP. I tried to
write that kind of music, and present it
in a Metallic fashion. Bands like METAL
CHURCH, HELSTAR, SAVATAGE and
QUEENSRYCHE were inspirations here. 
Dennis: I was influenced by
IRON MAIDEN, DIO, SAVATAGE,
QUEENSRYCHE STEVE VAI, VAN HALEN,
DOKKEN and STING!?!
What were your activities as a band
during the time you were around.
Did you ever performed abroad?
Jesper: We never played outside
Denmark. I think we played about 25
gigs in all, over the years. We headlined
a Danish metal festival in 1988, it was
the coolest gig, people went nuts.
And we supported Swedish ICE AGE
in Copenhagen. A European tour with
ICE AGE was scheduled, but never
happened.
ICE AGE? The cool all-female power/
speed/thrash band? It should
have been a nice show!! Anyways,
Denmark had a strong underground
movement going along, with bands
as the mighty WITCH CROSS,
RANDY, MIRAGE, WASTED, CRYSTAL
KNIGHT, ANGER, EVIL, DAMNATORY,
MALTESE FALCON and many more
wallowing around in the 80’s. What
were the bands from your country
that you enjoyed the most? Did
FORCE MAJEURE play with any of
them? How did the crowd reacted
with a less known band such as
FORCE MAJEURE watching them
perform live?
Jesper: We never played with any of the
above mentioned bands. Sadly. Unless
you were MERCYFUL FATE or PRETTY
MAIDS, it was hard to draw 200 people
to a gig in Copenhagen. If you did a
triple bill, there was a chance people
would show up. We did one of those with
INVOCATOR and FURIOUS TRAUMA,
and 500 people showed up. But if you
weren’t a thrash band, it was hard to get
an audience. For me, MERCYFUL FATE
were the big heroes. They were really
original, and heavy at the same time.
I also liked EVIL´s stuff, and HERO, a
very underrated Danish band, in a more
hard rock fashion. CRYSTAL KNIGHT´s
LP still works today, whereas some other
Danish recordings don’t really stand the
test of time, for me today.
Going back in the past, Jesper
Schmidt played with APOCALYPSE,
a band featured in “Metal Outlet”
compilation LP released in 1987
by Bums records, recruiting
MALTESE FALCON’s singer to
record 2 tracks for this compilation.
Did APOCALYPSE have other
recordings? Was there any similar
participation in a compilation LP
for FORCE MAJEURE? Quite lots of
releases like that occurred in the
past to promote unsigned bands
that deserved to achieve more than
a demo, 2 years after “Metal Outlet”
the interest had already decreased
for underground metal bands?
Jesper: Apocalypse was really early
FORCE MAJEURE, with a different band
name. We never recorded anything after
the compilation as APOCALYPSE, but a
demo before. The band name FORCE
MAJEURE is less... limitating than
APOCALYPSE, which kind of suggests
more violent metal than we play. I don’t
really remember it as a time when the
underground “disappeared”, it just took
a step in the thrashy direction. Sadly for
us!
What’s your opinion about the local
scene of the past compared to the
present one of today. Being an
active musician, which bands do
you appreciate in the metal scene of
this new era and how much the local
metal scene has changed from back
in the day, apart from the obvious
changes evolution has offered? Is
there any interest in bands playing
80’s influenced heavy metal?
Jesper: VERY interesting question!
With Myspace, it’s easy to check out
the current Danish bands. And I’m
astonished by what I hear. Bands today
play really well! And the production is
mostly superb. But then again - Today,
all bands have their own home studio.
You can produce good sounding demos/
records fairly cheap at home , whereas
in our days, entering a studio would cost
a fortune. And you actually had to PLAY
the stuff. Today, drums are corrected
with “beat detector”, a program that
divides the drums to mathematical
perfection, like a drum machine would
play it. And the drums are “triggered”,
when the drummer hits his snare
drum, a sample sound is produced, so
it’s not the drummer’s snare you hear,
but a sampling. This of course sounds
very professional and convincing, but I
would MUCH rather hear Morten fuck up
a fill, than hear him sound like a drum
machine. But all in all, the Danish scene
is really huge now. Bands are really going
for it, and sounding good. There are a
few bands playing 80’s style: ANUBIS
GATE and IRON FIRE. But if you want to
make it big with this type of music, you
have to get out of Denmark.
Other than FORCE MAJEURE, you
Jesper and Morten credited in
another project called VICIOUS
AROMA. What was this band about
and did you record anything with
them?
Jesper: VICIOUS AROMA was made
as a joke, really! Morten, myself and
a couple of other crazy musicians
from Copenhagen used to hang out.
We would have fart-contests, and act
really immature. And of course, we had
to make a true metal band. The plan
was to take all clichés and stereotypes
of Heavy Metal, and overdo them. We
had stage names inspired by death/
thrash/black-metal bands; I was
“Henning Holocaust”, Morten was “Sven
Slaughter” etc. Of course we were
Satan worshippers, and we would enter
the stage clad as warriors, with swords
and leather. I’m tellin’ya, MANOWAR
could fuck off with their girlie stage
appearance, and their disco/pop-metal.
We played Slayer-inspired thrash, with
lame lyrics. We recorded a demo in the
rehearsal room, on a 4-track, just for
fun. But it became cult in Copenhagen
:-) So we recorded another demo, in a
real studio. The sound was way better,
of course, but it wasn’t as fun to do as
the first one. One of the songs “Smell
Awaits” was put on a Danish metal
compilation called “Fuck you, we’re
from Denmark”. VICIOUS AROMA has a
myspace-site as well. And someone has
put some video on Youtube. A friend did
a VHS amateur video to our song “Heavy
Metal”. It was recorded on a cemetery,
of course. Some compared us to SOD,
you be the judge of that. VICIOUS
AROMA and SOD were inspirations to
Mortens current band RED WARSZAWA.
-46-
They are HUGE in Denmark, frequently
performing Roskilde Festival in front
of 15.000 people. And selling tons of
records.
Now let’s move on to the present
tense and talk about the recent
F.M release. Steel Legacy records
decided to re-release all FORCE
MAJEURE stuff on vinyl and CD
format, after being well-hidden in
the chests of metal history, How did
this deal come up and how do F.M
members feel about that?
Jesper: This happened totally
unexpected, and in a funny way: One
day, a Greek dork (you might know
him?) wrote me, and asked if I had any
FORCE MAJEURE demos. I didn’t, but I
sent him the full catalogue on mp3. HE
seemed to like the music, and sent it to
his friend Kostas, who runs Steel Legacy
Records. Thus it happened. Kostas liked
the music too, and we decided to go for
an album.  We are really thrilled with
this opportunity, and it has made us get
in touch with  each other again, which
is cool. We’ve made a myspace-site for
the occasion, everybody is welcome to
visit.
Dennis: I think it is funny that the
Internet brings this opportunity-
this is music made 20 years ago or
more… well, since music should be
valid forever this is a great thing!
Getting it on vinyl like the good old days
is just unbelievably awesome! Rock on
dudes!
What is the bands state at this
moment, any plans of reuniting?
Jesper: We all love music so anything is
possible, but at the moment spare time
for some of us (Dennis for instance) is
less than needed to be in a band full
time, but he is building a recording
studio, so when work will take less
time compared to today, who knows…?
If reuniting I guess music will be a lot
more mature and hopefully way more
cool!
I hope you will be back on studio
and stage soon to deliver some
more great music as you did before,
keep up the good work and best of
luck to all of you guys.
Force Majeure: Thanks a lot and we
hope fans will enjoy the Steel Legacy
recent release as much as we did while
recording the tunes and as happily as
we embraced the idea of offering our
music to the masses….
Thanos Stafylarakis
Discography:
“Demo I”
(Private, 1988)
“Demo II”
(Private, 1990)
“Demo III” (Private, 1991)
“Force Majeure” CD/LP

REVIEWS
ALTAR OF OBLIVION
“Sinews of Anguish” CD
(Shadow Kingdom Records, 2009)
Altar of Oblivion is an epic doom metal
band from Denmark which started in 2005
and until now they have one demo and a
full length album released in 2009 under
the name “Sinners of Anguish”. Altar
of Oblivion is a band, that with the first
listening will not satisfy you completely,
but if you listen to that carefully you will
detect the very good components that they
have… like a good production, nice music
arrangements - they are not the classic
mournful epic doom metal influenced by
bands like Isole, Warning and that stuff,
but their style is mixed with many heavy
metal elements which compose the one
that we call Altar of Oblivion. Also, the
particular kind of vocals is the one that I
like in doom metal personally. Check this
band – recommended!
Web: www.myspace.com/altarofoblivion
MitsDoom
ANVIL CHORUS
“The Killing Sun” CD
(Rockadrome, 2009)
This release has been talked so much that
in the end I thought that I would never see
it. Even when Thaen Rasmusen assured
me in 2008 (when he played in Athens
with VICIOUS RUMORS) that it would be
released, I still couldn’t believe it. Well,
here it is. This CD contains 12 songs, of
which 7 come from the CLASSIC 1983
demo of the band, “Thought Crimes”, 2
from their 1984 demo while the other 3
from various band recordings (to tell you
the truth, I don’t know if they are from
older band demos or new songs, I have the
impression that they are all 80’s tracks).
The production is great, while I would
prefer a better cover, but OK. When I
had first read that this CD would not be
re-released material, but re-recorded, I
was quite hesitant, as they are very few
bands that manage to capture the feeling
and energy of their early recordings,
many years after. Well, ANVIL CHORUS
definitively made it! For those unfamiliar
with the band, I will just say that their
sound is very original and I find it very
difficult to characterize them. Quality
Metal maybe? Fans of the band that are
skeptical about how the songs would sound
20+ years later, give it no second thought
and buy this CD. Metal fans in general,
this CD is also for you, even so late, it will
be a crime (not of thought, haha) ANVIL
CHORUS to be ignored by Metal fans.
www.myspace.com/anvilchorusssf
Kostas Kailiazis
ARRYAN PATH
“Terra Incognita” CD
(Pitch Black, 2010)
Sometimes words aren’t enough when we
stand in front of a true masterpiece… I
simply can’t find the appropriate words
to describe my feelings about the second
album of Cyprus’ best outcome through
the years… It’s not a common secret
that ARRYAN PATH approached the fields
of supremacy with their debut “Road to
Macedonia” in 2003 but merely six years
later I strongly believe that they fulfilled
all of their (ours too) expectations with
“Terra Incognita”! Their style remains so
close to Epic/Power territories with lots
of classic Metal elements, memorable
choruses and inspiring melodies that will
catch the breath of every devoted fan!
Nikolas Leptos’ interpretation behind the
microphone is phenomenal, while the
other musicians equally contribute to the
overall exceptional result! The production
by the band and Vangelis Maranis
(SANVOISEN) is magnificent too and what
we’re holding in our hands is probably one
of the most potential efforts of the last
five or ten years as far as this particular
style is concerned… Who said Heavy Metal
is dead?
www.myspace.com/arryanpath
Gregoryory Baxevanidis
BATTLERAGE
“Blood, Fire, Steel” CD
(Metal on Metal, 2009)
Let me start by saying that I really like
BATTLERAGE, as in their two demos and
-47-
the “Steel Supremacy” CD they showed
that they are a force to be reckoned
with in Epic Power Metal. After the first
listening, I was very disappointed and so
I decided to give it a try. After having
listened to the CD for three times, I
guess that I can give an accurate opinion.
Unfortunately, BATTLERAGE didn’t live
to the expectations (at least I had) and
“Blood, Fire, Steel” sounds very boring
and monotonous. The band balances
between mid-tempo and faster tracks, but
all I get is “power for the sake of power”.
Fans of SACRED STEEL, CAGE, HELLISH
WAR and DOMINUS PRAELII may want to
check this CD, but I would suggest to start
from “Steel Supremacy”.
www.battlerage.cl
Kostas Kailiazis
BATTLE RAM
“Smash the Gates” mini-CD
(My Graveyard, 2009)
Many years after their only release so far
(the 2003 demo that got also released on
vinyl), BATTLE RAM returns with a mini-
CD as an appetizer for their forthcoming
album, “Long live the Ram”. I never was
a fan of the band, despite enjoying their
live concerts (not only for the covers they
were performing, but also because they
are a very good live band). This mini-CD
includes 2 new songs, an acoustic rendition
of their “Dark Command” demo track, an
“Angel Witch” cover plus two live songs
(“Burning Lives” and “The Vow”-both in
their demo) from their performance at
Keep it True X in 2008. “Smash the Gates”
is very average and typical, while the other
new song, “A Warrior’s life and Death” is
way better, but again nothing special.
I also find the new singer to have a very
“flat” voice and being very weak when
he tries to reach higher notes, something
that certainly doesn’t help. This mini-CD
didn’t change my opinion about the band,
I still consider them an average band and I
would really like to see Gianluca focusing
on JOTENHEIM. Try to listen to it and
then decide whether to buy this mini-CD,
otherwise wait for the full length album.
www.battleram.it
Kostas Kailiazis
BLACK FATE
“Deliverance of Soul” CD
(Astral, 2009)
Holy mother of God! Am I dreaming
or what I hold in my bare hands is the
continuation of this fabulous band from
Larissa, Thessaly? The period where the
band was overshadowed by silence is
finally over and the new appealing form of
BLACK FATE arises like the phoenix from
the ashes! “Deliverance of soul” is their
second effort so far which carries out a
lot of member and musical changes as
well! If you dig the sound of the mighty
CONCEPTION and early KAMELOT era
with Roy Khan, this is your favorite cup of
tea! Brilliant power metal anthems with
a slight hint of progressive just to fill the
whole package, “Deliverance of soul” is
what the title means! Simply magnificent!
www.myspace.com/blackfateband
Gregory Baxevanidis
CARDINAL’S FOLLY
“Orthodox Faces”
EP 2009 (private)
Cardinal’s Folly, hailing from Finland is
a quite new band, existing though from
2004 under a different moniker (The
Coven), which was latterly changed in
2007 in the one that we know. Their EP
called “Orthodox Faces” was the one
that made them one of the most worth
checking bands in doom metal. However,
with slogan like N.W.O.F.D.M. nothing
more but true traditional doom metal is
expected. We all know that Finland is a
goldmine for every doom metal fan as it
has produced sincere bands like Minotauri,
Spiritus Mortis, Fall of the Idols, Reverend
Bizarre and many more which have raised
doom metal to another class. Cardinal’s
Folly is one of them and the signs are
clear; they have entered strongly the
doom metal scene as they play pure heavy
doom metal, a music style that Finnish
people know at its best. The production
of the album is the one that I prefer in a
doom metal band and the vocals are also
classical for a Finnish doom band. What I
like most in this group, is that they have
a unique style. Their arrangements are
classic and in general I don’t have to add
something more. All I have to say is: fans
of Reverend Bizarre and Minotauri don’t
waste more time and go check this band
like I do.
Web: www.myspace.com/cardinalsfolly
MitsDoom
CHRISTIAN MISTRESS
“Mother of Mercy” 7”single
(Nasjonal, 2009)
A pleasant surprise from the States, from
Washington to be more precise. The first
thing that impressed me was the plain,
but beautiful cover. The music on offer
is a little hard to describe. Let me start
with the easy part. The band has a female
singer. NWOBHM in a more up-tempo
direction with some doom elements and
a “loose” sound could be a description,
but again…The title-track brought to mind
the very early TWISTED TOWER DIRE (with
Janet on vocals and more specifically the
“Fuck You” track), but maybe not. Very
good guitar work can be heard in both
songs resulting in a 7” that I enjoyed
a lot. I guess that it will also appeal to
quite a few fans, so contact the band to
get your copy (for a very low price) and
don’t forget to ask for the demo tape they
released soon after the single.
metalforbreakfast@hotmail.com
Kostas Kailiazis
CONDENADOS
“La Gran Muerte”
EP 2009
(Legion of Death)
Condenados is a pure doom metal band
from Chile, that has been created during
2005. I was familiar with this band about
3 years ago but I never listened to their
songs for unknown reason. However, when
their first EP (La Iniciacion) was released,
they totally persuaded me that they have
entered the doom metal scene for sure.
All lyrics and vocals are in Spanish which is
something new for doom metal and I have
to say that this band is very easy listening
to. Condenados play slow mournful doom
metal including a very characteristic
sound strongly influenced by the classic
sound of Latin America. A band, that has
much to give to doom metal.
Web: www.myspace.com/
condenadosdoom
MitsDoom
COUNT RAVEN
“Mammons War” CD
(I Hate, 2009)
The Swedish Doom Gods return many
years after “Messiah of Confusion” (1996)
with a brand new album. Although the
reunion took place years back with the
band performing in various Festivals and
gigs around Europe kicking ass (as I was
lucky to see them in Keep it True and very
-48-
recently in Athens) it took them quite
some time to release a new CD. But it
was worth the wait. Everything you knew,
loved and expected from COUNT RAVEN is
here. I would say that the album sounds
like a mix of “High on Infinity” (mainly)
with “Messiah of Confusion” with a more
Epic sound/approach. Songs like “The
Entity”, “A Lifetime”, “To kill a child”
leave few points to argue. It’s duration
(68 min.) doesn’t tire at all the listener,
in the right places we find majestic songs
like “Mammons War”, “To love, wherever
you are” & “Increasing Deserts” that only
add variety to the final result, apart from
proving once more of the tremendous
emotions these Swedes can transcend
also in their “softer” moments. Doom
fans already have this, those that know
the band by name and so far have been
hesitant, buy this CD, I am sure that it will
be an addition that you won’t regret.
www.myspace.com/countraventheband
Kostas Kailiazis
CRESCENT SHIELD
“The Stars of Never Seen” CD
(Cruz del Sur Music, 2009)
The known suspects… the company of
New Eden, Onward, Legend Maker, Cypher
Seer, Seven Witches etc. has made it
again! Their first album “The Last of my
Kind” was highly appraised by the metal
fans and press all over the world!! And
they return, after 3 years, with another
marvelous opus! All the ingredients
that made their debut album a success
are present here, too: melody, feeling
and power. Divine vocals and choruses,
amazing guitar harmonies and melodies,
solid pounding… all of them combined
with the professionalism and the passion
of these experienced musicians! Opening
track is good, but a bit tiring, while “The
Grand Horizon” is a thunder! “Tides of
Fire” starts slowly and melodic and then…
another thunder! “10.000 Midnight Ago”
offers variety, slow, bursting and pomp
parts – a real anthem! Michael rips the
sky with his stunning vox at “Temple
of the Empty”, “My Anger” is all about
classic US Speed Power we all love, but
“The Bellman” is not my cup of tea, not
so inspired. “The Endurance” is 9-minute
track with very good ideas and themes
- and finally “Lifespan” is another metal
blaster with great “aggressive” and
theatrical vocals! Waiting for their next
attack!
www.crescentshield.com
Antonis Adamakos

CROSSWIND
“Beyond” + “Opposing forces”
demo CD’s
(Private, 2007 + 2009)
To tell you the truth, I consider CROSSWIND
one of the most potential bands emerging
from Greece the last ten years! No
kidding! The quartet delivers high class
power metal with lots of references from
both European and American tradition,
combining modern speed/power metal,
NWOBHM and Epic Metal as well, the
production and the cover artwork on both
releases are extremely appealing and the
interpretation of the bands’ members is
what I call phenomenal! Don’t get me
wrong but I’m more than sure that if luck
doesn’t turn its back on them, the future
holds even more stunning efforts by them!
Latest news is that Stormspell Records will
have released both demo-CD’s in one CD
by the time you are reading these lines, so
you know what to do.
www.myspace.com/crosswindmetal
Gregory Baxevanidis
CRYSTAL VIPER – “Metal Nation” CD
(Karthago, 2009)
It seems that the Polish CRYSTAL VIPER
are very active! This is their second full
length album, while in the meantime they
have released various other goodies! The
inspiration and energy is still here, as in
the first album. European Heavy Metal
with fresh ideas, full of energy, crystal
clear production, great melodies and
amazing female vocals!! The CD contains
8 tracks plus one cover of the all-time
classic “Agents of Steel”. I would consider
this album inferior than the previous, but
do not get me wrong - “Metal Nation” is
a great album and very professional in all
aspects! It is just me that I prefer more
Epic songs. Best tracks of the cd: “Legions
of Truth”, “Bringer of the Light” and
“Metal Nation”. Recommended!
PS. This band really kicks at their live
shows!!
www.crystalviper.com
Antonis Adamakos
CRYSTAL VIPER
“The Wolf and the Witch” 7”single
(High Roller, 2009)
After the very good “Metal Nation” album,
CRYSTAL VIPER release this 7” single with
the title track on A-side and “Mr. Gold”
from WARLOCK as a B-side, which is very
well played and performed. I wasn’t very
impressed with their song, not that it was
bad or something, it’s just that the band
with both albums has proved that they
can pen excellent songs. This single comes
with a great cover and is limited to 500
copies.
www.crystalviper.com
Kostas Kailiazis
DARK NIGHTMARE
“The Human Liberty” CD
(Eat Metal, 2009)
After a couple of demos and a split CD
with BLADE OF SPIRIT, DARK NIGHTMARE
unleashed their inner power and “The
Human Liberty” came to our bare hands!
With a sound quite close to Epic Metal the
melodic way and adding influences from
traditional metal and NWOBHM sound,
the band is without a single doubt in a
very good shape and all you can judge
by yourself while you’re listening this ten
song cracker! Moreover, “Dragonlakes” is
one my most favorite songs of the last five
and even more years composed by Greek
metal artists!!!
www.myspace.com/
darknightmaregrevena
Gregory Baxevanidis
DIPHTHERIA
“To wait for fire” CD
(Pitchblack, 2009)
For many Underground metal freaks the
name of DIPHTHERIA may bring beautiful
memories… The band from Cyprus
released back in the mid 90’s a couple of
very promising demos but due to various
reasons they returned back in action in
2003! “To wait for fire” is a collection of
old songs that ring the bell for all true
lovers of heavy/power metal with fair
production and shows the undying passion
and technical abilities of the outfit! Get in
touch with them for further details…
www.myspace.com/diptheriametal
Gregory Baxevanidis
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FORSAKEN
“After the Fall” CD
(I Hate, 2009)
New label for Maltese Doomsters
FORSAKEN and it was proved that we
had very high expectations. In no way
is “After the Fall” an average album, on
the contrary it has some of the familiar
characteristics of the band (power,
melody and epic atmosphere) but what
comes to destroy almost everything is the
awful production that especially in the
guitars section is so intense that makes a
simple listening very difficult. It’s a shame
for FORSAKEN to “fall” a level, since they
are one of the last representatives of Epic
Doom Metal.
www.myspace.com/forsakenmalta
Gregory Baxevanidis
GRIFTEGARD
“Solemn, Sacred, Severe” CD
(Van Records, 2009)
Solemn, sacred, severe… These three
words are absolutely not enough to
describe Griftegard’s new masterpiece
but they are able to prepare you for what
you are about to listen. Hymns of epic
doom metal influenced by the solemnity
of our Lord with gospel mourning parts,
slow depressing melodies of both
guitars, amazing clean melodic vocals
and tempting emotions which are reborn
during the listening of this album. Nothing
less to expect from a doom metal band
from Sweden, a country which has the
most important doom metal bands ever
like Candlemass, Count Raven, Isole, Ereb
Altor, Memory Garden and many more.
According to my opinion maybe the best
doom metal album of 2009. Songs like
“I refuse these Ashes”, “Punishment and
Ordeal”, “Drunk with Wormwood” are
definitely not composed every day and
with the way that are performed they
succeed in describing something divine
and sacred, a thing that is totally reflected
in the music of Griftegard. The album
has also been released in vinyl format by
Nachtgnosis (various editions).
Web: www.myspace.com/griftegrd
MitsDoom
HIBRIA
“The Skull Collectors” CD
(Remedy, 2009)
Porto Alegre’s pride returns after 4+ years
of absence with another amazing CD!
The Brazilian quintet seems unstoppable
with the frenzied, bombastic Power
Metal rhythms triggering off merciless
headbanging, certifying that HIBRIA
belong to the elite of the genre’s new
generation. Albums like “The Skull
Collectors” are the best answer to those
believing that modern Power Metal has
nothing to offer, with its very high quality
and the musicians that composed it giving
every ounce of their talent! Undoubtedly
it’s an excellent CD and you should better
not ignore it.
www.myspace.com/hibria
Gregory Baxevanidis
HIEROPHANT
Demo
(Private, 2009)
Holy shit!!! This is an unbelievable band!!
HIEROPHANT is a band formed in Texas
and they’ve been around for a couple of
years - their Youtube videos had made
real sense, and now they have their first
demo ready. They play the US Metal we
all love, but with unique sound. I could
say they are a perfect mix of US Power
/ Speed Metal with some influences from
Euro Metal. Vocals are... from the heaven
and above..., fantastic harmonies and
meaningful soloing, great ideas in bass
and a thunder on the the drums! “Heart
of Fire” and “Enslaved” are for sure some
of the best tracks written ever! The faster
you get this demo, the better! Endless
pleasure of TX Metal Assault!! Labels,
labels... sign this band!!!
www.myspace.com/hierophanttheband
Antonis Adamakos
HURLEMENT
“De Sang et d’Acier” CD
(Emanes Metal Records, 2009)
Another killer French newcomer that
you are going to love!! HURLEMENT were
formed in 2003 and this is their debut
release through Emanes Metal (see ya in
U.T.H.!). The main influences come from
Running Wild, Lonewolf and the likes…
bombastic heavy metal in your face!! No
bad moments here, just well-played classic
heavy metal with variety and good ideas.
Some lyrics are in French and I really love
‘em, while the others are in English. A
release you should check for sure, but we
will be waiting for their second album to
see what they are capable for and have a
better picture of them.
Note: the vinyl version was released by
Metal Coven Records with a different
artwork cover.
www.myspace.com/hurlement
Antonis Adamakos
HYBORIAL STEEL
“An Age Undreamt Of...” CD
(My Graveyard Productions, 2009)
When this cd came out it was like a thunder,
the buzz and mystery around this US band
was serious... but in the end it turned out
to be somehow like a joke!! HYBORIAL
STEEL do not come from the States, but
from Italy and it seems to be a project of
ex-ASSEDIUM members Luca (vocals) and
Guido (guitars), as they have confirmed!
On the musical side, this release is a real
masterpiece of well crafted US Epic Heavy
Metal – a glorious tribute to the gods of
steel! Manilla Road, Omen, Ironsword are
definitely some of the influences of “An
Age Undreamt Of...”, while they present
a unique approach, nonetheless! The
opening track “Hyborean Steel” is one
of the best tracks I’ve ever listened to!
This song has easily achieved a place in
the pantheon of the most classic US Metal
tracks! A must-have release! Epic to the
bone!
Note: a great cover of Heavy Load’s
“Heavy Metal Heaven” is included!
www.myspace.com/hyboriansteel
Antonis Adamakos
IN SOLITUDE
“In Solitude” CD/LP
(Pure Steel/
High Roller, 2009)
The resurgence of the Classic Metal sound
is getting stronger as time passes by and
the Swedish bands once more prove that
they belong to the elite…IN SOLITUDE
don’t play something innovating and
they never will. They do in the best
manner what they do though! Their same-
titled debut is a “unofficial” tribute to
early IRON MAIDEN and MERCYFUL FATE
(also on the lyrical approach) with very
notable compositions that may not reach
the levels of the aforementioned bands,
they don’t cease to be some of the most
-50-
attractive propositions for all those that
still believe that they are musicians out
there expressing themselves with pure
and honest Heavy Metal
www.myspace.com/insolitudeheavymetal
Gregory Baxevanidis
LAST EMPIRE
“Heir to the Throne” CD
(Private, 2009)
I was really blown away with the debut
album of LAST EMPIRE back in 2004 –
technical US Power Metal at its best!
The second album “Heir to the Throne”
continues with the same successful recipe:
very powerful vocals, heavy, technical
and speedy parts blended nicely, great
production and feeling. I think this band
has not received much recognition or
attention – and if you count on the fact
that the signer is of the fame of Malice and
Vicious Rumors, then you can understand
how underestimated this band is. A must
have for fans of Helstar, Syris, New Eden
etc.
www.myspace.com/lastempire
Antonis Adamakos
LICK THE BLADE
“Graveyard of empires” CD
(Auburn, 2009)
LICK THE BLADE hail from Cleveland, Ohio
and after two demos they release their
debut, “Graveyard of Empires”. Typical,
predictable Heavy Metal that owes almost
everything to IRON MAIDEN, while on the
other hand, when they choose to follow
more Power oriented paths they bring to
mind all the great US bands of the 80’s.
The final result though, despite having
the right influences is average mainly due
to their singer who hasn’t yet learned to
control his vocal range. Let’s hope that
they will get better on their next album.
www.myspace.com/licktheblade
Gregory Baxevanidis
LONEWOLF
“The Dark Crusade” CD/LP
(Karthago /Killer Metal, 2009)
After the great “Made in Hell” CD (2008)
and a label change, LONEWOLF decided
to prove why they should be considered
one of the leading forces in today’s
underground Heavy Metal scene. They
don’t claim that they invented the wheel,
on the contrary. The band consists of Metal
fans that play the music they like, without
caring about being innovative, selling lots
of copies or whatever. LONEWOLF’s music
brings to mind RUNNING WILD (there is
even a “tribute” song, “Legacy of the
Wild”). Ok, that’s a fact. So what? Do they
perform with passion and inspired guitars
their Power Metal? The answer is yes. Both
hands raised. And because I feel that it
must be made clear, since I have heard
many fans shunning LONEWOLF, accusing
of them of being just copycats, let me
say one more thing. It’s another thing to
steal a bigger band’s music and another
to compose music “based” on the style/
band you love. If such a thing is performed
with honesty and the final result sounds
good to my ears, I prefer it over the bands
that are original for the sake of it (who,
at the bottom line we have all seen where
their “never-ending” quest for originality
has led them, playing shit that has nothing
to do with Metal). This is the best album
LONEWOLF has released (after their
debut of course) and I am really happy
that the band has never strayed not only
from the path of REAL Metal but has
given us 4 great albums showing no sign
of compromising. Just a quick listen to
HYMNS like “Viktoria”, “Warrior Priest”,
“Hail Victory”, “Winter Farewell” (what a
crazy driving riff!), “The Hour Zero” (over
10 minutes, the entire track slays!) or ANY
of the albums songs will convince you.
Well done brothers!
www.myspace.com/metalonewolf
Kostas Kailiazis
MANOWAR
“Thunder in the Sky” mini-CD
(Magic Circle Music, 2009)
After lots of thought, I decided to review
the newest MANOWAR release. I was
reluctant, because it may seem unfitting
to see reviews from such releases in such
a publication and also because MANOWAR
is my all-time favorite Metal band and I
want to be careful. “Gods of War” was
an album that got neglected by the
Metal fans and in most things they were
right. I personally enjoyed the album’s
Metal songs, but I ended up listening to
a 30 minutes EP when I had bought a 70+
minutes album, something I didn’t like.
“Thunder in the Sky” is here. The mini-CD
includes 6 songs and these are: “Thunder
in the Sky”, a very typical song, “Let the
Gods decide”, a song based on and saved
by Eric Adams, since musically is nothing
special. “Father” is a typical ballad, while
“Die with Honor” is an ok track known
from the band’s previous single. The new
(Metal) version of “The Crown and the
Ring” shouldn’t be included, as the original
is such a CLASSIC track that should be left
untouched. “God or Man” ends this release
in the best way, as it is a great fast song
sounding like an outtake from “Warriors
of the World”. The bonus CD includes 15
(!!!) different versions of “Father”, sung in
different languages. Useless if you ask me.
If the band and fans like it, who am I to
judge this? If this CD is indicative of the
forthcoming full-length, then it’s a good
sign. On the other hand, so was “The Sons
of Odin” mini-CD before “Gods of War”.
The old times are long gone, I guess that by
now we ALL know and accept this, so this
review will probably add nothing. Those
that have abandoned MANOWAR, will shun
this CD, those liking the band’s direction
all these years have already bought it and
don’t wait my opinion. Both parties have
acted well if you ask me. And something
for the end. All this “Asgard Saga” thing,
doesn’t “smell” good, but I hope that I am
wrong.
www.manowar.com
Kostas Kailiazis MIDNIGHT IDOLS
Ps. The return of Donnie Hamzick (the
“Sworn to the Night” CD
best drummer the band ever had!) is more
than welcome, but all I hear is the typical
(Metal On Metal, 2009)
As hard as it is to admit sometimes, as
MANOWAR drumming of the post-“Triumph
much as the truth hurts us, US Metal
of Steel” era and not the “Battle Hymns”
hasn’t for many years now reached even in
drummer.
the smaller extent the quality of European
bands. MIDNIGHT IDOLS are no exception
and their new CD just gathers some nice
ideas and riffs but as a whole is just above
mediocrity. Good will, NWOBHM and
IRON MAIDEN (mainly) influences are not
enough. More persistence and effort are
required for the future…
www.myspace.com/idols
Gregory Baxevanidis
METALUCIFER
“Heavy Metal Bulldozer” CD/LP
(Iron Pegasus, 2009)
Years (lost count) after “Heavy Metal
Chainsaw” and with live albums/singles,
compilations and other pretty unnecessary
releases in the meantime, the Japanese
Masters of cliché Metal strike back! I admit
that I love this band, despite their major MIDNIGHT PRIEST
drawbacks (we all know them, but is it
because of these that we love them even
“Rainha Da Magia Negra” EP
more?). I was puzzled when I saw how
the album would be released. Japanese
(Stormspell, 2009)
Great Heavy Metal from Portugal sung
version and Teutonic (the one I bought
in their native language! The EP consists
and review here) played by the German
of 6 tracks that are interesting from the
METALUCIFER line-up leaded by Blumi (of
start to the end (“Juizo Final” is simply
METAL INQUISITOR fame. Hey guys what
fantastic!). Powerful heavy metal with
about a new LP?). Pointless for me to
balls and epic elements, 80’s feeling
have the same album/songs recorded by
and production, amazing artwork cover.
two “bands” and even more pointless (or
Certainly, they do not play something
does another word apply here?) to have
new, but their classic heavy metal sound
them released as two separate albums…
with the Portuguese vocals makes it really
well, enough with my general thoughts.
interesting and exotic. Recommended!
It’s the music that matters, right? Yes! Did
www.myspace.com/midnightpriest
you expect METALUCIFER to play anything
Antonis Adamakos
else than Hellish Metal knee deep in the
NWOBHM tradition with killer guitars and
mega-cult lyrics? No! This is the case once
more, but the result is not as killer in their
MILES BEYOND
previous LP’s. Far from average guys! This “Discovery” mini-CD
LP is great, the trademarks of the band
are here, Blumi sings great, but from the (Rock Revolution, 2009)
spins I have given it so far, I can’t say I MILES BEYOND hail from Michigan, USA and
was so blown away, as from their previous this is their second release after “Miles
recordings. Maybe my opinion will change Beyond” (2004), a CD that has gotten great
with time. Their fans have already picked reviews but I learned only after buying this
it up. Those never heard of the band mini-CD and so far haven’t heard. Classic
should try their two previous releases, Metal with Epic tones (mainly because of
“Heavy Metal Drill” and “Heavy Metal the singer and some guitars) is what you
Chainsaw” and then get this one. will get with Tim Moody sounding very
www.truemetal.org/metalucifer similar to Bruce Dickinson. This mini-CD
Kostas Kailiazis
-51-
includes 3 songs with great guitar work
(is it only me or the opening riff to “My
Able Axe” sounds very similar to AIRGED
L’AMH?) and very professional layout/
production. I really think that a label
contract is the next logical step, the band
has great potential that with the help of
a label and of course their more intense
efforts will further blossom.
www.milesbeyond.net
Kostas Kailiazis
PICTURE
“Old Dogs New Tricks” CD
(Rocktalent, 2009)
When Dutch PICTURE were making their
comeback some years back, satisfying
lots of fans that wanted to see them live,
what we all wished for was to enter the
studio and record new songs…Of course
let’s not hide behind our finger…In the
vast majority of reunions what we get
has nothing to do with the glorious past,
PICTURE seem to be an exception. “Old
Dogs, new tricks” rightfully gathers the
attention of Classic Metallers, since it is
based on the foundations the band has
laid in the 80’s (and especially with their
4 first albums), without following current
trends that would lower the respect we
have for them. I really wish that they
will also give us in the future such good
albums.
www.myspace.com/pictureholland
Gregory Baxevanidis
PRODIGAL EARTH
“Zenith II Zero” CD
(Pitchblack, 2009)
Cypriot metal bands seem to leave behind
their own cell and PRODIGAL EARTH is
a fine example about the dignity and
devotion of artists come from the island
of Aphrodite! Not a single dull moment,
just an extremely balanced, powerful,
yet melodic bunch of songs, possibly the
best outcome from Cyprus along ARRYAN
PATH! To be more precise, “Zenith II
zero” belongs to the most welcomed
underground heavy/power metal gems of
2009! I only wish them to succeed all the
targets they set as musicians and band as
soon as possible with this release…
www.myspace.com/prodigalearth
Gregory Baxevanidis
RAM
“Lightbringer” CD
(AFM, 2009)
Swedes RAM had left us very good
impressions from their precious releases
(“Sudden Impact” and “Forced Entry”),
as well as from their presence in the first
Up the Hammers Festival in 2006. With
“Lightbringer” they showed us that they
didn’t “manage” their success well and
the final results swims in shallow waters.
Their classic Metal style hasn’t retreated a
bit, but has given place in Epic references,
something that would have left us more
than satisfied. The mid-tempo character
of most songs tires instead of challenging
our senses. The Gothenburg band does
not convince us that this change will help
them fulfill its goals. We shall see…
www.myspace.com/rammetal
Gregory Baxevanidis
Ps. For those interested, “Lightbringer”
will be released in LP from (who else?)
High Roller Records in May.
RAVEN
“Walk through Fire” CD
(King, 2009)
Long time, no see. I don’t even remember
how many years have passed when the
Brits had released a studio album. Looks
like the wait was worth it, since their
return is signaled with songs that travel
us back in their glory days, when RAVEN
were in the forefront of NWOBHM! There
may not be a comparison between “Walk
through Fire” and their early works, but
we should not forget how many years
before their debut was released and what
has happened in the between. Simple and
direct Heavy Metal with the known speed
outbursts but also more staccato and up-
tempo, a return that may not be talked
by the majority of the Metallic world, but
will leave their fans satisfied!
www.ravenlunatics.com
Gregory Baxevanidis
REVELATION
“For the Sake of No One”
CD 2009
-52-
(Shadow Kingdom Records)
This is the sixth album of Revelation and
I have to say that this band continues
to surprise me always even more. Their
talent is very hard to be described and
even though they released 2 albums in
the same year, this band not only has not
become boring but they made an album
which is quite different from the previous
one. The particular album combines
heavy, slow doom metal with few stoner
elements – these stoner elements do not
influence the doom metal parts and I
think that this is what makes Revelation
so special and continue to play so many
years doom metal mixing and combining
these 2 genres. This album includes many
instrumental sections - not boring at all
as well. In conclusion what I have to say is
that I can’t wait until their next album.
Web: www.revelation-usa.net
Bland Hand Records:
www.againstnature.us/BH/Revelation/
(official download)
MitsDoom
RISING CROSS
“Trumpets of Victory” mini-CD
(Private, 2009)
One of the biggest surprises of the last
year, Brazilians RISING CROSS come to
prove us that white Metal, despite being
neglected from the Metallic press, never
ceases to offer us intense emotions!
Despite they started out in 2000,
“Trumpets of Victory” is their debut, has
amazing sound and compositions that will
satisfy all fans of dynamic Power Metal
the European way. The quintet in no case
is a copy of the genre’s big bands, on the
contrary they do their best in the three
songs (plus an intro) included and I believe
that they should be included among the
rising forces of the genre. I hadn’t heard
such qualitative Power Metal with melody
and epic lyricism for a long time. A great
release that you must not lose. By the
way, “Victory” is a huge Epic!
www.myspace.com/risingspace
Gregory Baxevanidis
RITUALS OF THE OAK
“Hour of Judgement”
CD / LP 2009
(Eyes Like Snow)
Rituals of the Oak, is a doom metal band
from Australia. When I first listened to this
band was because of their 2009 demo.
Considering the fact that from Australia
there are not so many doom metal bands,
I was enough prejudiced when it was time
to listen to their album. Fortunately, I was
wrong because from the very first second
of the first song, I realized that Rituals of
the Oak, are my new favourite band. As
time was passing by, and I was even more
used to their sound, I believed that even
more. It is a doom metal band with female
vocals and their sound is exactly how
doom metal should sound like nowadays.
Clean vocal lines reminding The River. All
the songs are true masterpieces, and you
don’t know to which you want to listen
first. The last 12-minute opus song of the
album under the massive title “Spell of
Doom” is a song that before you listened
to it, you clearly know what to expect. I
am not going to say anything else about
this band. Listen to their album and you
will understand exactly what I mean. As
I have said before, with bands like them,
doom metal will never die. As for those of
you who haven’t listened to this album yet,
follow my advice and do it immediately.
Web: www.myspace.com/ritualsoftheoak
MitsDoom
SACRED STEEL
“Carnage Victory” CD
(Massacre, 2009)
The German Metalworkers after their
return to very good LP’s with “Hammer
of Destruction” they continue undaunted
giving us pure Heavy Metal in their
seventh album, “Carnage Victory”. Let’s
not lie, we all know what to expect from
a SACRED STEEL album and the band does
exactly this. They offer generously pure
Metal, at times aggressive and powerful,
at times dark and following mid-tempo
paths, always capable of causing huge
problems in our necks from the relentless
headbanging. Gerrit P.Mutz seems in a
creative trance with inspiration “escaping”
for very few moments. “Carnage Victory”
is the album that can restore its creators
in the highest places of real Heavy Metal,
where they should really be
www.myspace.com/truesacredsteel
Gregory Baxexavanidis
Ps. The album is also released on LP and
in a limited edition box-set, as well as the
“normal” CD.
SAINTSBLEED
“The Mighty Monster” CD
(Mighty Monster, 2009)
Debut for the German quintet of
SAINTSBLEED, the demo of which (2003)
I didn’t have the opportunity to listen.
Dynamic Heavy/Power in the steps of
GRAVE DIGGER and WIZARD (mainly in
the faster parts), with many up-tempo
moments adding variety in the bands’
sound canvas. To be honest, “The mighty
monster” has certain compositions that
hardly surpass mediocrity, on the other
hand I cannot overlook the fact that it
also contains many good tracks that help
to the final impression.
www.myspace.com/saintsbleed
Gregory Baxevanidis
SANCTION-X
“The Last Day” CD
(Metal Heaven, 2009)
New German band, but some of its
members have a rich past having played
in STORMWITCH, EVIDENCE ONE, THE
ARMADA. In “The Last Day”, SANCTION X
do not present something new, but I cannot
admit that their material is respectable
and will apply to those enjoying classic
Metal with a melodic approach. Don’t
think of US bands, their sound is entirely
based on the European tradition. Very
good musicianship and compositions are
found in the CD, listen to them and you
will not regret it.
www.myspace.com/sanctionxebbypaduch
Gregory Baxevanidis
SAVAGE BLADE
“We are the Hammer” CD/LP
(Pure Steel, 2009)
Canada has started producing lots of bands
that live and breathe for Heavy Metal the
way we learned it from the British in the
80’s. The results are not always the best
for their inspirers but also for the fans of
this sound around the world. “We are the
Hammer” is the first effort of the trio, that
wants but cannot do more, despite having
some quite memorable compositions.
When they decide to add power to their
songs, they seem to be doing very good,
this does not apply to the case when they
decide to enhance them with more bulk.
www.myspace.com/wearethehammer
Gregory Baxevanidis
Ps. “We are the Hammer” LP was released
by the band and Pure Steel decided to
release it in CD format.
SEAMOUNT
“Light II Truth”
CD 2009
(Church Within)
After the much promising debut album
(Seamount), they are back to strike
again with the brand new album “Light
II Truth”. When I first heard the rumours
about releasing a new album I was excited
because I expected an album better that
the previous one. Unfortunately, when I
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first listened to that, I was disappointed
comparing this album with the previous
one which I adore. Seamount, in this
album appear to be strange and even
though they have kept the elements that
we were used to (like the melodies of the
vocals and the characteristic riffing of the
guitars as well as the production of the
album), a conformational change is been
observed. Seamount in general, combines
the traditional doom metal with some
epic influences and many heavy metal
elements played in a more modern way.
Finally, in order to conclude, I should say
that this album is from the one hand a very
good album, but on the other hand it is
not that good as their first one. However,
Seamount, with only 2 albums on their
discography, managed to make a personal
sound which gives us the opportunity to
distinguish them from other bands - so this
band is definitely worth checking.
Web: www.myspace.com/seamountdoom
MitsDoom
SESTA MARCONI
“Where the Devil Dances”
CD 2009
(Metal On Metal)
Classical example of Italian doom metal
band!. Sesta Marconi according to my
opinion is among the best bands that have
been shown in the doom metal scene as
well as with Doomenicus. They combine
the Cathedral and Pentagram style along
with some doom/rock influences. Fans of
this particular sound will appreciate this
band. Sesta Marconi is an example of a
band which tries to create their own sound
and I believe that they have succeeded in
it so far. For sure it’s a band which you
have to check if you are a fan of doom
metal.
Web: www.myspace.com/sestamarconi
MitsDoom
SOLITARY SABRED
“The Hero, the Monster, the Myth” CD
(Steel Legacy, 2009)
For those who still believe that American
epic metal has been totally disappeared
from the map of metal, SOLITARY SABRED
is one of the very few exceptions to the
rule… Hailing from Cyprus, they follow
the aforementioned path, with some good
ideas and orchestration parts but after all
the result don’t vindicate their efforts. Not
necessarily a bad or a mediocre release,
I guess that the future will bring better
days so it’s preferable to wait and see…
www.myspace.com/solitarysabred
Gregory Baxevanidis
SPEEDTRAP
“Raw Deal” EP
(Thunderkinights Records, 2009)
SPEEDTRAP is a new band formed in 2007
and they come from Finland. This is their
first official release (their demo contained
almost the same tracks) and I can say they
are on a good way! Their style is Heavy /
Speed Metal, most influences come from
NWOBHM and bands like Jaguar, Avenger
or Diamond Head. No modern stuff here,
but old 80s feeling all over! Fans of
NWOBHM and 80’s European Heavy Metal
should definitely check ‘em!!
Note: the EP has also been released in
vinyl format by High Roller Records.
www.myspace.com/speedtrapmetal
Antonis Adamakos
SPITFIRE
“Die Fighting” CD
(Emotion Art, 2009)
It’s always good to see familiar faces of
our childhood to get back in business…
SPITFIRE’s debut “First attack” from 1986
is according to my humble point of view
the most complete effort of all ages as
far as the Greek Heavy Metal scene is
concerned but unfortunately fate was
never their ally… “Die fighting” comes
after a long period of silence but it fails to
capture the feeling of the past, I think that
the majority of the songs lack of emotion
and pure feeling and the production surely
needed improvement… I guess “First
attack” will always stand unreachable…
www.myspace.com/spitfirespitfire
Gregory Baxevanidis
STEEL HORSE
“Wild Power” CD
(Pak, 2009)
The heart of Classic Metal beats also in
the Iberian peninsula and in Spain, with
a bands that recently played in Greece
as a support act in the latest show of
BATTLEROAR! Classic Metal approach,
in both production and songwriting-
wise, without having common points
with the feigned approach some of
their colleagues’. The quartet, shows
patience and zeal, elements that give
them the comfort not becoming retro and
repetitive. If the beginning is the half of
everything (as a saying goes), then STEEL
HORSE make a very positive first step in
modern discography’s jumble.
www.myspace.com/steelhorsemetal
Gregory Baxevanidis
STORRMBRINGER
“Among the Flames of War” CD
(Eat Metal, 2009)
Time has finally come for STORRMBRINGER
to release their debut under Eat Metal and
offer shivers in the back for every devoted
Epic Metal worshipper! Besides the young
age of its’ makers, the album in its’
entirety stands on a high level, with songs
full of lyricism, potential and passion that
definitely draw your interest… Check it out
and let’s hope that “Among the Flames of
War” will be the beginning of a golden era
for this young outfit!
www.myspace.com/storrmbringer
Gregory Baxevanidis
STRESS
“Live ‘n’ Memory” CD
(Metal Soldiers, 2009)
I was totally unfamiliar with the band (I
only knew the Hungarian band by the same
name) until I found this CD and decided
to give it a try. STRESS exists since the
80’s and have released their fair share
of albums through the years. Not being
familiar with them I started listening to
this CD, which includes 11 songs from a
live show that took place in 2005, 4 from
a rare demo from 1985 and a bonus demo
track recorded in 2005, a total of 16 songs
in total. The First of all the sound is really
good, although the crowd does not sound
so “hot”. The second thing that you notice
are the vocals. The singer has a very
average voice and when he is “stretching”
his voice a little more (on choruses for
example) he is making an even worse
impression. As for the music now. Classic
Metal is what STRESS plays here and I
guess that the songs are selected from all
albums since they have a certain variety,
ranging from mid-tempo to faster-paced
tracks bordering on Power Metal, but I
wasn’t impressed by any of them, as any
good ideas are ruined by the vocals. The
2005 bonus track is a fast-paced one, but
nothing special and the 1985 demo sounds
good in a more melodic/commercial vein.
The booklet looks excellent and must be
very informative. I say it “must” because I
can’t read a single word! Yes, it’s written
in Spanish. A shame, since it looks very
interesting and the layout is very nice.
This is the first release of the Metal
Soldiers label and I wish them the best,
-54-
since they proved that they are willing
to release works of high quality, so more
power to them.
www.stress.mus.br
Kostas Kailiazis
STRIKER
“Road Warrior” EP
(Iron Kodex, 2009)
Well done. STRIKER many not play
something that will remain in history or
something innovative, but at least they
seem to totally respect their influences
and the fans that are not bored listening
to the much loved 80’s classic Metal sound
and support every effort from wherever
it comes from. The EP of the Canadians is
one of the best and most honest efforts
of the last years and it honors them that
they do their best so their style will not
be characterized retro and outdated.
They play Heavy Metal from their hearts
and they show that they have all that is
needed in order to play an important role
in the next few years. All it takes is not
to become content with the wonderful
“Road Warrior”. For your info this EP has
been released in a limited edition of 525
copies.
www.myspace.com/listentostriker
Gregory Baxevanidis
TEMPLE OF PAIN
“Lord of the Undead Knights” EP
(unreleased, 2010)
The Temple Of Pain is project group of
Fabio, lead singer and guitarist of the
doom metal band Thunderstorm from
Italy. Not along time ago, their first demo
cd (Lord of the undead) came to my hands
and I admit that when I firstly listened to
that, I was excited and I continue listening
to that for 5-6 times more. This is how
doom metal should sound like; slow,
heavy, epic, sabbathic. It is a band much
worth checking and a band that you can
count on, and I hope that they also believe
that this demo is not enough and that it is
time for a full length album to start being
prepared. For all the true supporters and
fans of doom metal, I suggest you to find
and listen to this demo. The sound is very
good and very easy listening, even though
it is a demo. Also, it is well known that
the doom metal scene of Italy is among
the best in the whole world and that’s one
more reason to listen to The Temple of
Pain. At last, we all know Thunderstorm,
so we can all congratulate Fabio for this
masterpiece which gave us.
www.myspace.com/templepain
MitsDoom

THE GATES OF SLUMBER
“Hymns of Blood and Thunder” CD / LP
(Rise Above, 2009)
We continue with The Gates Of Slumber
and with their last album named “Hymns
of Blood and Thunder”. To be honest,
when I first listened to that album, my
emotions were mixed as I am not the
biggest fan of this band. I surely prefer
their first demo and albums though. This
band has so many heavy metal elements
within its music and as a result is the
tempo of their songs which makes them
too “speedy” for my taste. After saying
all these about my personal beliefs about
this band, let’s move to the review of this
album. Generally it is a quite good album,
and I have to say that I liked it. We shall
never forget that The Gates Of Slumber is
among the most worth checking bands in
doom metal and this album contains many
good ideas. It is a doom metal album which
refers not only to doom metal fanatics
but also to people with different tastes
in metal in general. Thus, this album is
among the best releases of 2009 for sure.
www.myspace.com/thegatesofslumber
MitsDoom
THE LORD WEIRD SLOUGH FEG
“Ape Uprising” CD
(Cruz Del Sur, 2009)
I have been following this great for many
years; every release of Slough Feg is a
trademark of their uniqueness and endless
inspiration. Album by album they present
a different face: the first album was more
of Sabbath and Ungol inheritance, the
next three albums revealed a pure Epic
Metal attitude (my favourite era!), while
the following two and finally this one
was a (slow) return to their roots… and
even more back in the past! Following
the same tradition as of “Hardwolrlder”
album, their style cannot be described
as pure Heavy Metal, but as a crossover
of 70’s hard rock and 80’s heavy metal
with obvious influences from Thin Lizzy.
The leads are simply amazing and Scalzi’s
performance is once again phenomenal!
The best tracks are the self-titled “Ape
Uprising” (a 10-minute opus) and the
opening “The Hunchback of Notre Doom”
with a doomy Sabbathic approach. I am
not sure how this album can be appealing
to younger fans or to those that have not
listened to Slough Feg before, but fans of
“mature” heavy metal, nwobhm and hard
rock will surely appreciate it! Well done!
www.sloughfeg.com
Antonis Adamakos
THE WOUNDED KINGS
“The Shadow over Atlantis” CD
(I Hate, 2009)
This is the second album from The
Wounded Kings and I personally believe
that with this album they showed an
expected improvement with a positive
result of gaining more fans. This album
includes the basic elements which fanatics
of this genre of music adore; occult,
atmospheric, dark, doom and heavy as
hell! Various emotions are been created
while listening to this band – it travels you
to secret paths and makes you wander. All
of you that have listened to the previous
album make a favour to yourselves and
listen to this album as well. Enthusiasm is
waiting. Heavy guitars, nice melodies and
vocals driving you to another dimension of
depression are pretty good combined with
the production of the whole album. In
conclusion, The Wounded Kings is a much
promising doom metal band, and this
release has been added to the list with my
favourite albums ever!
www.myspace.com/thewoundedkings2
MitsDoom
TRAZOM
“A Reclamation of Power” EP
(Trazometal, 2009)
This the second effort of TRAZOM, a
band that formed in 2006 in Ohio, USA
and I must say this release was a pleasant
surprise. Their style is pure US Metal,
balancing between Power, Speed and
Thrash Metal with lots of 80’s references
poured with some “modern” elements in
the guitars. The opening track “Natural
Disaster” is a real blaster; full of speed
and power, aggressiveness, bombastic
rhythm section and killer vocals – almost
the same thing is happening for the other
tracks, too! I find their style to be on the
edge for my tastes – if they were more
thrashy, then they would not interest me
so much. “A Reclamation of Power” EP
contains 6 tracks plus the 3 tracks of their
demo 2007 (same tracks).
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www.myspace.com/trazomband
Antonis Adamakos
VALKYRIE’S CRY
“Valkyrie’s Cry” CD
(Pure Steel, 2009)
After the “Black Knight” demo (2005), the
Canadians sign with German label, Pure
Steel and through this collaboration they
introduce themselves in Epic Metal fans
through the world. I tried to ignore the
amateur approach they have throughout
the procedure of listening to their debut.
Unfortunately I haven’t. the band seems
hermetically closed in its shell and its
influences, their ideas have nothing
shocking to offer, the production in the
same average levels…Since our ears have
heard many things, I prefer to hold a “small
basket” for conducting safer conclusions.
www.myspace.com/officialvalkyriescry
Gregory Baxevanidis
V/A
“Hellenic Forces Compilation Vol. III” CD
(Private, 2009)
HELLENIC FORCES is a brilliant
Underground fanzine that all those years
of its existence exclusively presents at
its issues Greek heavy/power/doom/
progressive metal bands… The guy behind
this effort, Kostas Kousiouris, is one
of those that helped a lot our scene to
develop through the years and spread its
wings to a wider fanbase and the third
compilation (issued a couple of months
ago) is another proof! Each participant
gives its soul and inner strength, you can
listen exclusive recordings and songs that
can be found to demos/promos etc and it’s
a matter of taste what you’ll like the most!
For the record the bands participating
are: BATTLEROAR, WISHDOOM, NEMESIS,
INNER AXIS, EVERDOME, THE SILENT
RAGE, HEART ATTACK, HAND OF GOD,
LAST CHANCE, STORRMBRINGER, ATRIA
MORTIS, BRAIN FADE, POWER CRUE,
WITCHCURSE and SHADOW VEIL. To
sum things up, if you want to have the
exact picture of the Greek heavy metal
underground in the year 2010, look no
further! The compilation comes with
excellent artwork and useful information
about every band! OUTSTANDING!
www.myspace.com/hellenicforces
Hellenic_forces@freemail.gr
Gregory Baxevanidis

V/A
“Texas Metal Archives
volume I” CD
(Brainticket, 2009)
Another release that has been talked
for quite some time is finally released.
Was it worth the wait? My answer is
yes. The purpose of the compilation
is to “document the bands that never
went beyond the demo or self financed
releases stage” according to the label
(John Perez to be more precise). And so
it is. The bands featured are: BATTALION,
SENTINEL (2 songs), VALKYRIE, DEATH
TRIPPER, NECROVORE, BARON STEELE,
WARLOCK, HEAVENS FORCE, WICKED
ANGEL, FORCED ENTRY, SCYTHIAN OATH,
MORBID TERMINATION (2 songs), ROTTING
CORPSE. I don’t feel like commenting on
the best bands/songs, or what should be
omitted and included instead. This review
makes a presentation of a compilation CD
that must be obtained by all fans of 80’s
Metal, as it is just that. A real document.
I really hope that the “volume I” included
in the title is this, just the beginning
and the feedback will force the label to
release further volumes and motivate
bands/labels to release properly their
demo/rehearsal recordings.
www.brainticket.com
Kostas Kailiazis
WHILE HEAVEN WEPT
“Vast Oceans Lachrymose” CD
(Cruz Del Sur, 2009)
6 whole years we have been waiting
this album from the Americans WHILE
HEAVEN WEPT, the cult status of whom
is undeniable. After the very good “Of
Empires Forlorn”, Tom Phillips & co.,
strike back with their third CD and a new
label on their side, attempting to gain the
lost ground. “Vast Oceans Lachrymose” in
my humble opinion may not fully justify
the triumphing reviews it has gotten
from almost everywhere, this doesn’t
mean that it’s not an album that will
satisfy every qualitative Metal fans with
emphasis on atmosphere and lyricism.
Their new singer, Rain Irving (ex-ALTURA)
is pretty expressive and especially in “To
Wander the Void” brings to mind the first
FATES WARNING singer, John Arch. Don’t
bypass it, I think the long wait was more
than worth it.
www.myspace.com/whileheavenwept
Gregory Baxevanidis
Ps. The album has also been released in
vinyl from High Roller/Iron Kodex/Maniacal
in a limited edition of 600 copies.
WHITE WIZZARD
“Over the Top” CD
(Earache, 2009)
Lots of buzz lately for Americans WHITE
WIZZARD, but as it mostly the case, the
truth is not as some people are trying to
present it to us. “Over the Top” is the
band’s first full length and musically it’s
very faithful to the British 80’s with em-
phasis on twin guitars, strong bass lines,
steady drumming and melodic vocals.
What is wanted though, is if they are in
position to play a leading role in the spe-
cific sounds’ revival, since their material
has ups and downs in terms of quality and
lacks stability. They have a very long road
to travel…
www.myspace.com/whitewizzard
Gregory Baxevanidis
Ps. The limited edition of the CD includes
two bonus tracks, “Gates of Gehenna”
(CLOVEN HOOF) & “Heading out to the
Highway” (JUDAS PRIEST).
WISHDOOM
“Winds of War” demo-CD
(Private, 2009)
For those with a strong relationship with
the Greek metal scene, WISHDOOM from
Thessaloniki is one of the most promising
young acts concerning the Epic/Doom tag!
“Up the hammers” their self released demo
was a rather good one but with “Winds
of War” they took their music many steps
further! All you have to do is listen to the
opener “My wish your doom”, a monstrous
composition that will leave everyone
speechless! The rest of the songs are very
interesting and worth digging, the cover
artwork by Dimitar Nikolov is excellent so
don’t waste a minute and grab at once this
fine of pure metallic art!!!
www.myspace.com/wishdoom
Gregory Baxevanidis
WIZARD
“Thor” CD
(Massacre)
The Germans have been around for many
years with some really inspired moments
(“Son of Darkness”, “Odin”) but also some
others not on the same high levels. With
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“Thor” they prove us that they haven’t
lost their ability to compose beautiful Epic
Metal elegies, which can take by storm
fans combined with the right lyrics. Words
are poor to describe tracks like “Asgard”,
“Serpents Venom” or the laudatory “The
Visitor” that travel us with their drakkars
in the stormy seas of the Scandinavian
North. It’s a shame that the works of
the Germans has passed unnoticed from
underground fans and I really hope that
“Thor” will be the stepping stone in
changing this situation soon.
www.myspace.com/wizardband
Gregory Baxevanidis
WOLF
“Ravenous” CD
(Century Media, 2009)
Without reaching the high levels of its
predecessor, “The Black Flame”, the 5th
album of the beloved Swedes still finds
them devoted in Classic Metal the way we
learned it and loved it in the 80’s. This
attempt, to transfer the atmpsphere of
your child years in current times, requires
from the bands nowadays not being
contented with the simple logic of “copy/
paste” but also adding-when possible-
their own touch. WOLF never had such
problems and despite their transition to
a bigger label (Century Media), which by
the way was followed by lots of cries that
now was their time to sell out, the band
members contradicted them by releasing
a mature album, with catchy songs that
will not pass unnoticed.
www.myspace.com/wolfheavymetal
Gregory Baxevanidis
ZANDELLE
“Flames of Rage” CD
(Pure Steel, 2009)
Label change for ZANDELLE and after the
masterly “Vengeance Rising” (2006), I was
expecting the New Yorkers to come up with
another excellent release. Unfortunately,
they didn’t. The approach is the same as
in the previous two CD’s, US Power Metal
with many European elements in the
songwriting and in the vocal melodies, but
this time the songs sound a bit uninspired
(plus the CD lasts over 70 minutes!). The
CD is a good one featuring some great
tracks, but ZANDELLE can do a lot better,
something they have already proved to
us. I also think that the production could
be better, as it sounds very “messy” at
times. Let’s hope that this was just a bad
moment, after 4 great Power Metal CD’s.
www.zandelle.net
Kostas Kailiazis

RE-ISSUES
ANCIENT CROSS
“Ancient Cross” CD
(Stormspell, 2009)
I did not know the existence of this band,
until Stormspell re-issued this album (it
was firstly released in 2006 by the band).
ANCIENT CROSS hail from San Antonio,
Texas. Initially, I thought they would play
my beloved TX Metal drug… but I was
wrong. Their style is straightforward,
pounding and epic heavy metal with
fantastic arrangements, interesting guitar
themes, solid and strong vocals (very few
parts remind Martin Walkyier’s style!).
Tracks like “Teach the Child”, “Gates of
Hell” or “In Dreams” are real anthems!
Another amazing release that you should
not miss! No mediocre or boring parts…
just divine US Epic Metal!!! Hailz!
www.ancientcross.com
Antonis Adamakos
BATTERING RAM
“Back through the Main Gate” LP
(High Roller/Metaleros, 2009)
A familiar name I guess, since this the
same band that had a 7” single released
from Eat Metal in 2004 featuring two songs
off their 1987 demo. This LP includes both
demos the band did (“Breaking through
the main Gate”, 1987 & “Intruder”, 1989).
The music on offer is very raw Metal
very typical of the Belgium scene of the
80’s (which produced many great demo
bands). The LP is limited to 500 copies,
comes in an excellent edition with 4-page
insert loaded with photos, lyrics and
a very detailed biography (but a cover
more appropriate for a video-game).
Something worth mentioning is that the
band has “released” a mini-CD (available
to download at their website) and is active
once more, but judging from the musical
direction they follow now, they are better
off remembered as the band captured in
this LP.
www.battering-ram.net
Kostas Kailiazis
BLACKSTORM
“Twist of Fate” CD
(Arkeyn Steel, 2009)
Another US Metal demo release by Arkeyn
Steel. This time its BLACKSTORM from
California, a band that I knew from their
second demo, “Tales from the Wishing
Well” and the participation of their guitar
player Robert Kolowitz in HELLHOUND.
This CD includes the “Twist of Fate” (1989)
and “Tales from the Wishing Well” (1990)
demos, plus 5 of the 6 songs (the missing
song is also available on the 1990 demo,
so…) from the 1992 demo (“The Lands
of Yesterday”). Killer Power Metal with
wonderful vocals (the band’s first singer,
William Sablan sounds very similar to
another US singer, whose name refuses to
come to mind…), guitars that spit massive
riffs and very intricate songwriting/
structures bordering on late 80’s US
progressive. Necessary buy for US Power
Metal lunatics. This CD is limited to 1000
(numbered) copies, get it a.s.a.p.
Kostas Kailiazis
BLOODY SIX
“In the Name of Blood” CD
(Blower, 2009)
Very unknown Swiss band that did this
LP and faded into obscurity, apart from
their singer who later joined KROKUS
(1990-1992). The LP was released in 1985
from Camel/Gama Records and is a very
nice example of mid-80’s Heavy Metal
with quite a few Hard Rock elements. I
would say a mix between OVERDOSE (the
Germans that had released “To the Top”
LP) and CUTTY SARK (EP), but not reaching
as a whole the above releases. “Way of
the Hunter” is a song that you must listen
by all means though, a real Metal Classic.
Nothing groundbreaking as a whole, but
also far from labeled as average, a very
enjoyable listening throughout. This CD is
limited to 300 copies for your information
(few in my opinion, since this is the
first time this album gets reissued) and
includes the video the band did for “Let
it Burn”. The label states inside the CD
that the found band members weren’t
too interested in the reissue and so didn’t
help with extra stuff that would make this
reissue more interesting. Sad. The LP is
easy and cheap to get, so vinyl maniacs
start searching!
-57-
Kostas Kailiazis
COMMANDMENT
“Engraved in Stone” CD
(Arkeyn Steel, 2009)
This album was recorded in 1987 and
got first reissued by OPM in 1999. After
a bootleg reissue in 2005, Arkeyn Steel
took the wise decision to reissue it once
more (the OPM LP is sold out years now
and already expensive). Of all the albums/
demos that have been unearthed-reissued
the last 10 years, this album is one of the
best. Pure US Power Metal of the highest
caliber with raging riffs, proud vocals
(RIP David Nava) and 10 songs that will
blow your brains (well, the ballad “Never
be Afraid” doesn’t fit this description,
but….). Another greatly packaged Arkeyn
Steel CD (I am used to their bad covers, so
I am not commenting) which also includes
a bonus track and the lyrics which weren’t
available in the vinyl.
www.myspace.com/
commandmenttheband
Kostas Kailiazis
COMMANDMENT
“No Mercy” CD/LP
(Pure Steel, 2009)
I have been waiting for this LP with great
anticipation, ever since learning of its
release and hearing some songs on the
bands’ myspace webpage which I liked
a lot. Recorded shortly after “Engraved
in Stone”, “No Mercy” includes 8 songs
(plus a small guitar solo) in the “known”
COMMANDMENT vein. I got this LP very
late and haven’t listened to it as much as
I would like, but so far it didn’t impress
as much as “Engraved in Stone”, not even
close I dare say. US Power Metal with
David Nava’s (RIP) impressive vocals and
great guitars, but the album is a step
below as songwriting goes I fear. Don’t
get me wrong, “No Mercy” is a great
album and my guess is that I will like it
even more with time. I recommend this
to all COMMANDMENT and US Power Metal
fans in general, but those wanting a first
acquaintance with the band, better check
the album reviewed above. Pure Steel did a
magnificent work on the LP (gatefold with
thick sleeve) as always (my only objection
being the cover, which is not that great).
The LP is limited to 525 numbered copies
and you should act fast in order to make
sure you get a copy.
www.myspace.com/
commandmenttheband
Kostas Kailiazis

CRUSH
“Kingdom of the kings” CD
(Sirens, 2009)
The legendary quartet from Athens
that made a huge impact in the Greek
metal scene by releasing “Kingdom of
the kings” in 1994, strikes back! Well,
this is not new stuff but a re-release of
the aforementioned masterpiece on CD
format for those that they can’t find the
authentic vinyl copy. CRUSH need no
further introduction, according to my
humble opinion this album is rated among
the ten most exceptional Greek metal
efforts ever! Classic heavy metal the way
British bands teached the whole world,
songs that will leave you speechless with
their quality and true passion, CRUSH
deserved to be at the pantheon of our
music. The bonus opus “Morpheus world”
is truly unbelievable, so don’t be late to
your appointment with history…
www.myspace.com/crushgreece
Gregory Baxevanidis
DAGGER’S EDGE
“Dagger’s Edge” CD/LP
(Steel Legacy, 2010)
“Featuring James Rivera on vocals” (as
stated on the cover of the album). For
some people this is a reason alone to
buy this album. I was totally unfamiliar
with this demo, until Kostas from Steel
Legacy mentioned it to me some months
ago. And here I hold the LP in my hands.
DAGGER’S EDGE was the band that Guy
Hoffmann (bass) and Ian Sanders (guitars)
formed and this demo is the only official
recording. Side A has the 4 songs of the
1987 demo, very good Power Metal with
“Three Wicked Kings” and “Enticer” being
my favorite tracks. Side B has 5 songs from
a live show of the band, one of which is
“Green Manalishi”. The sound is average
to bad, but if this was the only way to listen
to more songs from the band, it’s ok. The
band sounds more powerful on stage and
judging by their songs presented live they
had chosen to go for a harder direction
by that time (1988). Very good release,
nothing near HELSTAR though. I have one
minor complaint. The bio provided by Guy
Hoffmann in the insert/booklet is not
very informative about the band’s history
and to what extent DAGGER’S EDGE was
a “real” band, taking into consideration
that James Rivera was in HELSTAR in the
years 1987-1988. Nevertheless, a worthy
release limited to 330 (LP) and 1000 (CD)
copies.
Kostas Kailiazis
and a short biography. What about more
great Texas Metal demos getting the same
treatment? I am sure that there would be
a market for them, especially if someone
sees that nowadays almost everything
labeled as “80’s US Power Metal” seems
to be selling like crazy, despite its musical
(or not…) value.
www.myspace.com/finalvengeancetx
Kostas Kailiazis
DARK QUARTERER
“The Etruscan Prophecy” CD
(My Graveyard, 2009)
It was about time this album was properly
reissued on CD, as previously it was only
available on vinyl (1989, Cobra Records
and the Comet Records reissue from 2003).
There could be a bootleg CD but I don’t
remember now. “Etruscan Prophecy” is
the second DARK QUARTERER album. In FORCE MAJEURE
the same vein of the debut, mysterious,
technical (with a progressive touch) Epic “Force Majeure” CD/LP
Metal with an atmosphere straight out
of your worse nightmares, “The Etruscan (Steel Legacy, 2010)
Prophecy” will grab you as soon as This anthology album contains all songs the
“Retributioner” begins. Gianni Nepi’s band recorded and released from between
incredible vocals and Fulberto Serena’s 1988 and 1991 in three demo tapes (1988,
unbelievable guitar work will destroy 1990 and 1991), a total of 11 tracks. More
you. I hardly distinguish “Retributioner” info on the band’s history on the interview
and “Devil Stroke” above the other cuts. found in this issue. FORCE MAJEURE
The CD is released in a wonderful edition, certainly was a band with great potential
including a well-written biography of the that was made for bigger things in my
band (in English and Italian-the same that opinion. Power Metal with a progressive
can be found on the LP reissue) plus two edge on the songwriting department is
bonus tracks, “Queen of the Sewer” and what you will get. In the band’s last sign
“Retributioner” live from 2009. A video of life, the 1991 demo, FORCE MAJEURE
for “Gates of Hell” (from the debut LP) had a new singer (Dennis Petersen) who
dating from band rehearsals back in 1985 is reminds me a lot the singer from the
also included, a real document. The band English TYRANT and also presented a
continues releasing CD’s, but in my opinion, more “progressive” side of their music, all
the while keeping the Power element. A
this is where the band “died”, since their
later works moved in a more progressive necessary release for Power Metal fans, if
direction with boring (to my ears) results you ask me. The LP is limited to 333 copies
apart from very few songs. The “daring” (CD to 1000) and comes with a beautiful
should also check their later releases. cover by Dimitar Nikolov.
Those wanting something “safer” go for Kostas Kailiazis
the debut CD of ETRUSGRAVE (“Masters
of Fate”, 2008), the band Fulberto Serena
formed and of course the first two albums
of DARK QUARTERER. .
www.darkquarterer.com
Kostas Kailiazis
FINAL VENGEANCE
“Within the Realm” CD
(TMU, 2009)
Another very longed release, this CD HELLISH WAR
includes the second FINAL ASSAULT
demo and 5 tracks from the band that “Defender of Metal/Heroes of Tomorrow”
evolved from them, VENGEANCE. This
release lacks the obvious, the killer “First
2CD
Warning” demo (from 1985), but I guess
this was done for copyright reasons. This
(Pure Steel, 2009)
Very nice reissue from Pure Steel including
CD needs some time to get into. At least
both albums of the band plus two bonus
it was this way for me. More complex than
tracks. “Defender of Metal” (Megahard,
“First Warning”, but with the same killer
2001) is the band’s debut and I personally
guitars and divine vocals, courtesy of Alex
consider one of the best albums of the
Robles. For me, it’s a great CD, but this
decade that just ended. Totally-inspired
may not be the case for all. Listen and
RUNNING WILD Metal, I will agree, but
then decide. Great work has been done
the passion and power coming from ALL
in the booklet with lyrics, photos/flyers
-58-
compositions is something that is hard
to believe. We are talking about a band
that released a CD with a duration of 70+
minutes and achieved something that
only few can, not tire the listener for a
single second. I still consider “Defender
of Metal” to be one of the best examples
of Speed/Power Metal and I really doubt
if something as killer will be released in
the years to come. “Heroes of Tomorrow”
(Private, 2008) is the band’s second CD
and I was really happy to see it released
even after all these years since it proved
that HELLISH WAR are dedicated Metallers
not quitting when the first hardships
appear. On the musical side now, things
are not as they were in the debut. The
musical approach remains the same, but
this time the band incorporated more
melodic elements in their music, while
still having their own identity. This CD
set also includes two bonus tracks (well,
one of them is an instrumental version of
a debut song) and is a great way to know
this band that unfortunately has passed
unnoticed. Metal Forever!
www.myspace.com/warhellishwar
Kostas Kailiazis
HIRAX
“1984 demo” 7”single
(Stormbringer, 2009)
It was about time this legendary demo got
a proper reissue. Before HIRAX became
the band that we all knew/know (and
either we like or don’t like-count me in
the second category), they had released
this 4-track demo back in 1984 (with a
duration of 10 minutes!). Well, I guess
that the ones familiar with this tape
have already bought this single, as for
HIRAX fans, I would suggest to give it a
listen first. Epic/Power Metal fans, don’t
hesitate for a single second and order this
single at once! This single comes in a great
edition with a very cool fold-out insert.
www.myspace.com/hirax
Kostas Kailiazis
JONAH QUIZZ
“Anthology 1980-1982” CD
(Stormspell, 2009)
Does the name ring a bell? I guess not,
since this Swedish quintet only managed
to release two demos (with the first one
being very unknown until this CD got
released). Johan Langquist (later sang
on an album you might know, “Epicus
Doomicus Metallicus”) is the singer of this
band and I remember some years back
when the 1982 demo started being talked
by Metal fans my friend Jim Vagiannis (a
HUGE CANDLEMASS fan) pestering me to
listen to it. JONAH QUIZZ chose to sing
in their native language, a choice also
made by other Swedish bands in those
years. This anthology includes two demos,
released in 1980 and 1982. I have a slight
preference for the 1982 demo because it
contains their best and heavier material
(in my opinion). JONAH QUIZZ is a band
that definitely would have a bigger impact
have they released a single (as it was
talked) or a full length since they had
great potential. Fans of NWOBHM and the
very early Swedish sound of the 80’s (as
presented by great bands like ZONE ZERO,
220 VOLT, SILVER MOUNTAIN but mostly
average ones like TURBO, RENEGADE etc.)
will like this one. But I really think that
the very limited audience that listens to
this kind of bands will be interested in this
CD mainly for reasons of having an official
release in its hands since I really doubt
if there will be more than a few dozen
fans buying this without having heard the
band before. Is this a bad thing? I don’t
know…CANDLEMASS fans seeing the name
of Johan Langquist, not into the sound
of the bands mentioned, stay away. Very
nice work has been done in the packaging
and layout of this release (which cries for
a vinyl release, or is just me?)
Kostas Kailiazis
LONGINGS PAST
“An Angel’s Tale” CD
(Arkeyn Steel, 2009)
The second LONGINGS PAST album was
released in 1994 by the band in CD and
tape format, limited to 500 copies each.
After “Meadows of Maseilya” (their 1992
debut), Arkeyn Steel continues with
“An Angel’s Tale”. More “weird” than
its predecessor, this time the Metal
elements are very limited leading to a
more “relaxed” album, which is filled with
enchanting melodies and very heavy work
which is evident in all sectors. Once again
we have a concept, being the continuation
of the 1st album story (apart from the first
and last song). This is a recommended
release, but proceed with caution. I know
guys that love the first tape, but not this
one, so even “Meadows of Maseilya” fans
must be warned. Recommended, I just
wish that the CD had a better cover (the
original one would be a great choice!)
Kostas Kailiazis
MANILLA ROAD
“After Midnight Live” EP
(High Roller, 2009)
I remember some years ago seeing an ad
in the Monster Records website about an
old MANILLA ROAD radio recording that
would be released by them. Well, the
years passed and I am sure that most fans
had forgotten about it when High Roller
Records decided to “remind” it to us in
the best possible way. This EP (including
5 songs, 40 minutes in duration) is part of
a late 1979 radio recording the band did
-59-
for a local radio show. The sound is very
good, but I guess the most important is the
music. Well, if you take into consideration
the date (1979) and how MANILLA
ROAD sounded in their early recordings
(“Invasion” & “Mark of the Beast”) you
know exactly what to expect, and this is
exactly what you will get. This EP comes
in a beautiful vinyl edition, limited to 1000
copies and my guess is that it will go fast,
so act as usually. The cover incidentally
is the same that THUNDERSTORM used in
their “Sad Symphony” album.
www.myspace.com/manillaroadofficial
Kostas Kailiazis
OLD YRON
“Old Yron” CD
(Shadow Kingdom, 2009)
A very obscure Italian EP, which only in 2006
(as far as I remember) was unearthed and
started to be talked about, while finding
a copy has become virtually impossible.
So, while some might (justly seeing the
rare stuff that gets praised as great Metal
while they are not even worth the paper
and plastic they are pressed upon) think
“another crappy rare EP”? the answer is
no. “Old Yron” is in fact a great EP, with a
“weird” sound. I would say that the closer
to them would be DARK QUARTERER but
not that occult in atmosphere. Even the
guitar sound is quite similar. So, this
means a sort of Epic Metal with strange
arrangements and Doom elements. If this
(and the DARK QUARTERER comparison)
intrigues you, then go for this CD. We also
find two bonus tracks, “Moto Perpetuo” (a
Paganini tribute as stated in the liner notes)
and “Opera 60”, a rendition of a classic
track composed between 1700-1800. The
only remaining member, Antonio Ferrari/
Salvatore Falluca, inside the CD informs
us that an OLD YRON incarnation is in the
procedure of releasing a new album. Let’s
wait and see what will come out of this.
Kostas Kailiazis
RUTHLESS
“Metal without Mercy”
mini-CD
(My Graveyard, 2009)
RUTHLESS need no introduction. A band
epitomizing the US Power Metal sound
of the mid-80’s (along with bands like
THRUST, PURGATORY, POWERLORD etc.),
they only had two vinyl releases in the
80’s and a CD collecting their EP & LP in
1998 from Axe Killer Records. Seeing the
scarcity of the above mentioned CD and
the pretty obvious fact that the band is
reunited and kicking ass live (as witnessed
in Keep it True Festival), My Graveyard
reissued their debut EP with two bonus
tracks. The 5 songs of the EP will blow
you away, POWER Metal the way it should
be, leaving no excuses to any Power
Metal fan for not owning this release. In
the same vein are the two bonus tracks.
If the band has unreleased songs of the
same level, then maybe they should think
more seriously of releasing them. A more
complete release would make more sense,
maybe the band/label couldn’t secure the
rights to “Discipline of Steel”? The cover
is based on the original US one, but its
inferior to me, but then again times better
than the Axe Killer reissue from 1985.
www.myspace.com/metalwithoutmercy
Kostas Kailiazis
SABOTAGE
“Behind the Lines” CD
(My Graveyard, 2009)
“Behind the Lines” is the band’s debut
(after the 1982 & 1985 demos and the
“Rumore nel Vento” LP that remained
unreleased until now) and was first issued
on Trans-Euro (an Iron Works subsidiary) in
1986 and one year later in Europe through
LM (with a different cover-the same the
CD has). At first I thought that this was
going to be a reissue of the LP, but the
band decided to re-record the album in
2008. Strange if you ask me, since I can
not think of reasons, but since it is their
decision…The only difference between
the two recordings is the time that passed
between them. I mean, “Behind the Lines”
in 2008 sounds more fresh and “updated”
while retaining ALL the elements that
made me (and other fans) love to death
this album. Furious rhythms, great riffs/
guitars and excellent songwriting from
start to finish. Morby sounds more mature
and it’s pretty clear that he has learned to
sing a lot better than so many years ago
(not that he was bad, on the contrary). I
really cannot say which recording someone
should prefer. I guess that I will follow the
diplomatic way. Vinyl fans, prefer the LP
(it’s not that hard & expensive to get),
while CD maniacs, go for (what else?) the
CD. A bonus track, “Dawn of Fire” (in the
same vein, but with a slightly more modern
approach) is also included and if it is a new
composition (it says that it was recorded
in 2008, but not when composed) it proves
that SABOTAGE have the ability not only to
successfully “transfer” their recordings in
the new age, but also compose songs of
the same caliber. Well done!
Kostas Kailiazis
SLAUTER XSTROYES
“Winterkill” CD
(Rockadrome, 2009)
No words I guess, since there are many
things written in the last 13 years, since
Monster reissued (and introduced) this
US Metal Masterpiece to the Metal world.
This is the second time this album gets
reprinted in CD format, after the 1999
pressing has been sold out for quite
some time now. The CD has a new cover
(which I didn’t like that much) based on
the original design and it includes the
same tracklist (the 7 original songs plus
the “Winterkill” remix) but this time with
a bonus video track from 1985 and an
enhanced booklet. “Winterkill” it’s one
of the very few albums that are flawless,
not a single second is here without a
reason, the musicianship of the band is
beyond comprehension and KING John
Stewart reigns on vocals bleeding your
ears. 37 minutes of PURE Metal Mayhem
from one of the most underrated bands
in the History of the Music. A must, you
ask? No, great albums are just that, great
albums. “Winterkill” is no great album.
It’s as essential to Metalheads as water to
fishes, period.
www.myspace.com/slauterxstroyesband
Kostas Kailiazis
SLAUTER XSTROYES
“Free the Beast” CD
(Rockadrome, 2009)
“Free the Beast” is the band’s second
release, including the 1987 sessions for the
“Winterkill” follow-up that unfortunately
were never completed plus various demo
tracks. Rockadrome corrected the mistake
of the 1998 release (a very simple booklet)
by including a great booklet with photos,
interview excerpts etc., even a video
track, but omitting again the lyrics, which
I find it quite strange to say the least. And
it’s also the second time that the entire
“Free the Beast” sessions are not included
(this means “Saint’s Revenge”) but enough
with my complaints, they come from a
fan’s point of view. “Free the Beast” (for
those unfamiliar-really are there any, or
am I just satisfying my ego now?) is in the
SLAUTER XSTROYES vein of Metal, Heavy,
intricate, emotional, raging, EVERYTHING!
Power Metal with INSANE vocals (listen
to the GOD John Stewart on “Free the
Beast” or “NSZ 190”), reaching levels of
musicianship and inspiration that very
few bands would even dream of. There
is NO chance to consider yourself a Metal
maniac and not having this CD, an Eternal
-60-
Masterpiece that will remind us forever
that Metal is not about zombie mascots
and endless singles. A Masterpiece
reminding us that “Metal’s no Sin” and if it
is, then we prefer to live as sinners rather
than “holy men” knee deep in trends
and bullshit hybrids that have nothing
to do with our Music! Long live SLAUTER
XSTROYES, long live HEAVY METAL!
www.myspace.com/slauterxstroyesband
Kostas Kailiazis
TRAMONTANE
“Tramontane” CD
(Arkeyn Steel, 2009)
Anyone remembers this band? It’s the
same band that had the “December Dark”
mini-CD (2000), but most importantly
the s/t LP from Doomed Planet Records
(2002). For me TRAMONTANE is one of
the best demo bands in US Power Metal,
mainly for their legendary 1989 demo.
This CD compilation includes: the 1989
and 1994 demos plus three demo tracks
from 1999 that remained unreleased so
far, a total of 15 songs so far. The band
still doesn’t want the 1986 demo released
(anyone having a copy, since I haven’t
heard this one?). This combined with the
fact that the same band story as in the
Doomed Planet LP was used and the 1991
unreleased demo tracks (“Through eyes of
the dying” & “The White Wolf”) are not
included make me think that they must
not be so much into this. Or maybe I am
wrong? I don’t want to bitch and I really
think that Kostas from Arkeyn Steel tried
his best, but I worship this band and would
love to see a more complete release.
Enough with my grumbling. “Tramontane”
is a must buy release, if you are into early
MYSTIC FORCE and OLIVER MAGNUM this
band will destroy you, guaranteed, just
listen to “The Passage”, one of the best
Power Metal tracks EVER to understand
what I mean!
www.myspace.com/tramontanemetal
Kostas Kailiazis
VICE/THE KILL
“Complete” LP
(Stormbringer, 2009)
What we have here is a collection of the
two demos VICE released and two more,
the band that evolved from them (the
two core members were the drummer,
Chuck Terhune and guitar player, Ken
Villeneuve), THE KILL did. Side A contains
the two 1984 VICE demos, very good
Heavy/Power Metal with the second demo
ranking higher for me. THE KILL’s first
(1985) demo includes 3 songs (one of them album from all aspects (interviews with
reworked from VICE) and is the best demo band members, producers etc.). very
of the 4 included here in my opinion. The interesting idea and so far both issues that
new singer (reminding Halford in the low I have, have proved to be very interesting,
notes) is very good and adds to the result filled with lots of info. Issue 1 is dedicated
which is more “powered up” compared to to “From the 13th Sun”, issue 2 to “Epicus
the VICE material. The last THE KILL demo Doomicus Metallicus”, while the 3rd (and
(1986, 2 tracks) flirts with thrash but last for the moment issue) to “Chapter VI”.
despite that “Murder by Metal” is a good I only have one complaint. Even though
track (the other is “Kill or be Killed”, re- the fanzine is released by guys located
recorded from the 1985 demo). Very good in Sweden and USA, you can only order it
Power Metal album (demos if you like), from USA, resulting in a very high price
nothing groundbreaking though. A total of (especially if you take into consideration
8 songs (plus 2 different recordings) are to the number of pages, 24 for the 1st and 36
be found this beautiful gatefold edition, for the 2nd issue). I really think that this
limited to 300 copies. The label doesn’t is the only disadvantage. Essential for all
have any copies left (seeing the response CANDLEMASS fans. Well done guys!
and how quick it sold a second pressing www.myspace.com/candlemasschronicles
would be necessary in my opinion), so Kostas Kailiazis
check mail-orders and distributors.
Kostas Kailiazis

On the March #6
Another great On the March issue
is here, including interviews with:
ADRAMELCH, ATLANTEAN KODEX, CAST
IRON, CRUSH, CRYSTAL VIPER, EREB

FANZINE REVIEWS ALTOR, ETRUSGRAVE, IRONSWORD, MAEL

MORDHA, SACRED BLOOD, SOLITARY
SABRED, TARAMIS, WISHDOOM, fantasy
writer Richard L. Tierney, columns with
old demos/LP’s, fanzines/new releases
reviews, Epic literature, Epic movies,
non-Metal Epic music and finally two
excellent tributes to Basil Poledouris
and the demo years of DOMINE. This is a
must for all Metal fans into underground,
On the March has already taken up from
where Greek fanzines like Singing Swords,
Knights of Sunrise and Steel Conjuring
have left. Contact George and order this
fanzine (ask also for older issues if there
are any left) at once:
www.myspace.com/onthemarchzine
Kostas Kailiazis

Snakepit issue 17
A new Snakepit issue is here. It’s an
undeniable fact that after issue 11 back
Morbid Tales issue 6 in 2002, Snakepit made a turn in more
MORBID TALES #6 is a regressive full-size extreme Metal acts. Myself, I keep
fanzine featuring in-depth interviews enjoying (and buying) every issue, even
with VOIVOD, METALIAN, DARKTHRONE, if it includes few interviews with bands
PORTRAIT, MASTER’S HAMMER, PAGAN that I like. But, this issue will destroy
ALTAR, FAUSTCOVEN, SOOTHSAYER, Classic Metal fans, that’s guaranteed.
MORNE, INEPSY, LAMP OF THOTH, FLOWER This issue includes interviews with:
TRAVELLIN’ BAND, SACRED BLADE, ASSASSIN (CA), BACKWATER, BEEHLER,
ELIXIR, TROP FEROSS and CAULDRON. BURNER, COMMANDER, DEVASTATION
This monster - which took two years to (TX), ENFORCER (IL), EVIL, EXCITER,
write - also includes live reviews, London FATAL VIOLENCE, HAMMERON, KARION,
/ Prague / France / Montreal record KICK ASS, LEVIATHAN (NY), MAYHEM
hunting guides, 80+ album / EP / demo (IL), OVERKILL (NY), RAT ATTACK, RIOT,
/ fanzine reviews, an Italian horror metal RUTHLESS, SLAYER (TX), SORTILEGE,
report as well as an exclusive COUNTESS TRIAL. Plus the classic label special (this
/ BARATHRUM / SABBAT tour report from time with Rainforest Records-the label
1997, written descriptively by Orlok of that issued the SLAYER-“Prepare to Die”
COUNTESS. In addition, the ‘zine contains EP) and reviews. This issue comes with
bonus ASSASSIN (California) single (in
the bizarre Hell Bent for Cooking special;
a 13-page “cookzine” featuring 24 recipes
The Candlemass Chronicles either 7” or 12” version). Good news is
This fanzine has already reached its third that Shadow Kingdom will reissue Snakepit
of entrees, main meals and drink mixes
issue, but since I still haven’t bought it, I starting from issue 1 with bonus singles in
from UG/non-UG metal bands around the
will only present the first two issues here. each issue.
world!! 120 pro-printed pages of total
The general idea behind each issue is to www.myspace.com/snakepitmagazine
metal madness!
present in its entirety a CANDLEMASS Kostas Kailiazis
http://www.morbidtales.ca.

-61-
 Labels, distributors, mail orders:

Arkeyn Steel
www.arkeynsteel.com
Blower
www.blower-records.com
Brainticket
www.brainticket.com
Church Within
www.doom-dealer.de
Cruz Del Sur
www.cruzdelsurmusic.com
Cult Metal Classics / Sonic Age
www.sonicagerecords.com
Eat Metal
www.eatmetalrecords.com
Emanes Metal
www.emanesmetalrecords.com
Eyes Like Snow
www.myspace.com/eyeslikesnow
High Roller
www.high-roller-records.de
I Hate
www.ihate.se
Iron Pegasus
www.iron-pegasus.com
Karthago
www.karthagorecords.de
Killer Metal
www.killermetalrecords.de
Massacre
www.massacre-records.com
PLAYLISTS Metal on Metal
www.metalonmetalrecords.com
COUNT RAVEN – “Mammons War” CD Metal Soldiers
COURAGE – “Gold and Ivory” EP www.metalsoldiersmagazine.blogspot.com
FERNGULLY – “Tunnel Visions” mini-CD Metaleros
FORCE MAJEURE – “Force Majeure” LP www.metaleros.de
FRANKENSTEIN – “Don’t cry when I Die” 7”
Metalfighters
HIEROPHANT – Various demo recordings
www.metalfighters.com
IRON CROSS – “Iron Cross” 2LP
LONEWOLF – “The Dark Crusade” CD My Graveyard
MESSIAH FORCE – “The Last Day” LP www.mygraveyardproductions.com
STORRMBRINGER – “Among the Flames of War” CD No Remorse
Kostas Kailiazis www.noremorse.gr
Northern Silence
ARRYAN PATH – “Terra Incognita” CD www.northern-silence.de
CROSSWIND – “Beyond” demo-CD Obscure NWOBHM Releases
EXCALIBUR – “The bitter End” EP www.onr-records.com
PRAYING MANTIS – “Sanctuary” CD
Pure Steel
RISING CROSS – “Trumpets of Victory” mini-CD
www.puresteel-records.com
STRIKER – “Road warrior” EP
MEMORY GARDEN – “Tides” CD
Rockadrome
MINDLESS SINNER – “Turn on the Power” LP www.rockadrome.com
SAXON – “Saxon” LP Secret Port
WISHDOOM – “Winds of War” demo-CD www.truemetal.org/secretport
Gregory Baxevanidis Shadow Kingdom
www.shadowkingdomrecords.com
LUCIFER WAS – “Blues From Hellah” CD Sirens Records
VATICAN – “Power Is Obsession” Demo www.sirens-records.com
DAYS OF YORE – “By The Blood Flowing Steel Gallery
Through My Vein” Demo Tape
www.steelgallery.com
BANSHEE – “Cry In The Night” EP
Steel Legacy
PAGAN ALTAR – “Mythical & Magical” CD
PASSAGE – “Passage” CD www.steel-legacy.com
V/A – “Heavy Artillery” Tape Stormbringer
VENGEANCE – “Predator” LP Tape www.myspace.com/stormbringerrecords
SAVAGE GRACE – Everything Texas Metal Underground
Antonis Adamakos www.texasmetalunderground.com

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