IRON ANGEL – Hellbound

With their latest studio material no longer visible in the rear-view mirror, pioneers of German Speed Metal, Iron Angel, return with their first studio album in over 30 years. Described as “…For fans of Iron Angel, old Accept and German Speed Metal…” the well mixed album delivers their signature sound.  However, comparing the material to old Accept is a stretch.  While Accept hit speed metal tempos on occasion, the songs on Hellbound are nearly all pegged at “Fast As A Shark” speed.  Their sound has more in common with Exciter and Anvil.

“Writing’s On The Wall” starts with a riff and pacing reminiscent of Metallica’s “Hit The Lights”.  The song features a recurring mid-tempo chorus which accentuates its speed. Unfortunately, the rest of songs rarely let off the gas resulting in scant variety within the songs and little differentiation between the songs.  Also unusual for the genre are average song lengths approaching five minutes.  “Carnivore Flashmob” and “Deliverance In Black” are examples of repetitive riffs and drumming creating a numbing effect on the listener.  On shorter, more focused songs, such as “Hellbound” and “Ministry Of Metal”, the songs are less fatiguing.  Both of these songs drip with metal anthem clichés and are guilty pleasures.

While Hellbound is well mixed and performed, it could’ve benefited from a strong producer to focus the band’s ideas for more impact.  As such, it is unlikely to pull in new fans outside those of the band and German Speed Metal.

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TRACKLIST

1. Writing’s On The Wall
2. Judgement Day
3. Hell And Back
4. Carnivore Flashmob
5. Blood And Leather
6. Deliverance In Black
7. Waiting For A Miracle
8. Hellbound
9. Purist of Sin
10. Ministry Of metal

LINEUP

Mäx Behr – Drums
Dirk Schröder – Vocals
Didy Mackel – Bass
Mitsch Meyer – Guitars
Robert Altenbach – Guitars