IRON SPELL – From the Grave

It’s been said a million times, but rock and heavy metal are not dead (sorry, Gene Simmons)! It is alive and well, thanks to artists like Chilean heavy metal band Iron Spell. Founded in 2013 by drummer Felipe Carvajal (Steelhammer), the group released their debut EP titled, Heavy Metal Witchcraft, a year later. The idea was to create a record with the mystic and darkness of King Diamond and Black Sabbath, combined with the heaviness of ‘70s and ‘80s rock artists like Kiss, Alice Cooper, and W.A.S.P. Thanks to the power of social media, word of Heavy Metal Witchcraft spread like wildfire and caught the attention of three different record labels, including Dying Victims Productions. After making their live debut in March 2014, Iron Spell put their newfound experience to test by putting out their first official studio album titled, Electric Conjuring (2016), which featured Judas Priest’s Richie Faulkner on one track.

None of the Sugary, Sweet Production of ‘80s Hair Metal

Nine years have passed since and the band were long overdue for a new studio album. That day finally came with the release of their sophomore studio effort titled, From the Grave (2025). What does the record sound like? It’s raw and raucous, old school heavy metal with a vocalist that sounds like Klaus Meine from the Scorpions, thanks to a guy named, Merciless. The album kicks off with “Curse of the Ushers,” a very solid and headbanging, “take no prisoners” type of song. There’s also luscious vocal harmonies and tasteful acoustic guitar bits, proving that Iron Spell aren’t a one-dimensional heavy metal band. “Sorceress” dives into speed metal territory effortlessly. Think New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) or in this case, New Wave of Chilean Heavy Metal (NWOCHM)!

“Release from Darkness” is loaded with ear candy melodies and pop hooks, most notably in the chorus. The musicianship on From the Grave is absolutely incredible and the mesmerizing, yet haunting instrumental, “While Witches Dance,” solidifies that statement. The bass lines are groovy and menacing, the guitar riffage is insane, and the drumming holds a solid foundation even with the tempo changes. It’s not just a straight-up instrumental; everyone works together to tell a story and take listeners on a musical journey through a horror film. “Whispers of Sorrow” is funky and groovy as heck of a good time. Listeners will be headbanging throughout the entire song. “Black, Hot & Heavy” is another speed metal track with more thrilling and insane riffage, mixed with Merciless’ vocal prowess. That song also gets bonus points for ending with the sound of glass breaking. “Children of the Night” brings the album to a melancholic and cinematic close.

Final Assessment

Iron Spell’s From the Grave is real and authentic heavy metal with no autotune nor polished, sugary, sweet production of the ‘80s hair metal scene; they’re too cool for that nonsense. Instead, they brought the raw, headbanging, and drink booze all night vibes of Judas Priest, Motörhead, Saxon, and Iron Maiden. As hinted earlier, though, the album is chocked full of melodies. Also, props to the band for giving Ivlock his fair share of the spotlight for his magnificent bass playing, considering there are plenty of bands out there that like to bury their bass players in the mix. For those who are interested, give Iron Spell’s From the Grave a chance!

Album Tracklist

1. Curse of the Ushers
2. Sorceress
3. Release from Darkness
4. While Witches Dance
5. Whispers of Sorrow
6. Devil King
7. Deep in the Night
8. Black, Hot & Heavy
9. From the Grave
10. Children of the Night

Band Lineup

Ivlock – bass guitar
Terry – guitars
Raiden – guitars
Merciless – lead vocals
Steelhammer – drums

Check out the video for “Sorceress” from Iron Spell’s From the Grave!