STEEL INFERNO – Rush of Power

Straight out of Copenhagen, Denmark, Steel Inferno are a European speed metal band that formed in 2012. Their first two studio albums, Aesthetics of Decay (2016) and …And the Earth Stood Still (2020), both through Deadbangers Productions, fit the more traditional European metal scene in the likes of Accept and Judas Priest. Their third studio album, Evil Reign (2022), saw the band dive into U.S. power metal in the likes of Helstar, Jag Panzer, and Fates Warning. Despite the slight change in sound, however, the band still maintained their thrash and speed metal roots. It’s worth noting that Evil Reign was the first studio album the band released through their new record label, From the Vaults. It’s also their first with vocalist Chris Rostoff. Steel Inferno’s fourth studio album, Rush of Power (2024), is full-on thrash metal with bits of melody here and there. Think early Overkill and Testament. Like the previous record, Rush of Power was produced by Marco Angioni, who’s worked with New Wave of British Heavy Metal band Tygers of Pan Tang, at Angioni Studios.

Fast, Straightforward, and No Nonsense

The album opens up with an absolute barnstormer, “The Abyss.” Ferocious double kick drum work, frantic and chaotic guitar riff, and Bobby Blitz vocals from Rostoff. In more “accurate” terms, he sounds like a mix of Blitz from Overkill and Rob Halford from Judas Priest. Two legendary metal vocalists in one; what a deal. “Cut Down by the Chainsaw” has a simple, yet effective chorus that unites metal misfits for life. “Hunt the Rush” sounds just as evil and frantic, thanks to the tasteful and evil playing of guitar duo Lars Lyndorff and Jens Andersen. There’s also some sizzling hi-hat work before the climatic guitar solo, courtesy of drummer Krzysztof Baran.

“Electrocuter” comes and goes like a lightning bolt. Fast and very straightforward; no nonsense whatsoever. The shredding guitar solo with insane siren effects is worth the listen. “Cathedral Run” allows Baran to try new phrases and fills in his playing by structuring around the main guitar riff and licks; it makes more sense when listening to the track. Rostoff channels his inner Rob Halford further with his “Victim of Changes” screams on “The Blitz.” The vocal melodies are fun to sing along to, and Rostoff nails them with the right amount of attitude and aggression. Again, brilliant double kick drum work; what else is new? “Coven in the Dark” closes the album on a dark and menacing note (in the best way possible).

Final Assessment

Rush of Power is basically ‘80s old school thrash and speed metal combined. The album’s raw and untouched production is refreshing in a world where the latest technological advancements are all the rage in modern society. Albums like Rush of Power are a reminder that sometimes simple and effective are enough. No need for fancy and glossy production where everything sounds perfect; keep it real and low-key. The instrumentation is really good and Rostoff fits in well with the group. The guitar parts sound evil and have enough distortion, without overdoing it. The drums sound raw and commanding, and the bass has its fair share of the spotlight. For those in need of a headbanging and no nonsense good time, give Steel Inferno’s Rush of Power a chance!

Album Tracklist

1. The Abyss
2. Cut Down by the Chainsaw
3. Hunt the Rush
4. Power Games
5. Electrocuter
6. Cathedral Run
7. The Blitz
8. Attack
9. Coven in the Dark

Band Lineup

Thierry Zubritovsky – bass guitar
Krzysztof Baran – drums
Lars Lyndorff – guitars
Jens Andersen – guitars
Chris Rostoff – lead vocals