rewind: Alda - A Distant Fire

Alda

A Distant Fire

October 8th, 2021

Eisenwald

A band from around here in this western side of the state of Washington, Alda opens this album with a folk-influenced Americana sound that, for the local listeners, might remind them of the rain, clouds, and forests of the Pacific Northwest, and this serves as a subtle prelude to the band's more aggressive and direct musical approach later on. For fans of melodic black metal, I believe Alda’s skillful ability to shift seamlessly between melodic chaos and somber reflection makes the music a worthwhile listening experience.

It appears to me that while it is true that Alda’s sound functions well within the subgenre in general, this doesn't have to be a negative aspect, as it works well with the familiar elements such as acoustic guitars, blast beats, melodic vocals, melancholic tremolo picking, and all-out black metal extreme vocals, too. The band does well to infuse nuances and subtle additions, even without completely changing their foundation. To me, they experiment with rhythms, beats, and segments that keep the listening experience engaging.

It seems to me that the band’s art lies in their ability to maintain a solid balance of tradition and creativity. The album has lots of highlights, showcasing extended instrumental exploration and cool rhythmic ideas. The guitar work and vocal delivery certainly keep my interest, emphasizing their strong black metal basis while embracing the folk side, the imagined Pacific Northwest sound, and the sense of Americana. I think the combination of folk melodies and the intense sides makes a good sound that is often both pleasant and unhinged. Every instrument, melody, and phrase seem placed where it is in a conscious way. Years later, I still like the careful craftsmanship and the overall atmosphere of this work as a whole.

https://www.facebook.com/aldacascadia/

From Darkness to Light: The Life Journey of Jon Schaffer and the Legacy of Iced Earth

From Darkness to Light: The Life Journey of Jon Schaffer and the Legacy of Iced Earth

In the vast, thunderous world of heavy metal, few stories are as complex and human as that of Jon Schaffer and the band he founded, Iced Earth. Behind the riffs, the epic storytelling, and the multitude of fans stands a man whose life has taken a tumultuous turn, marked by legal battles, personal reflection, and a profound spiritual awakening. It’s a story that transcends music, revealing the raw, often painful, human quest for redemption.

Jon Schaffer: The Rise, Fall, and Rebirth of a Metal Pioneer

Jon Schaffer was never just a guitarist. He was a visionary, a driving force behind Iced Earth’s rise in the heavy metal scene. From the band’s inception in the early 1980s, Schaffer poured his soul into crafting music that told stories—dark tales of heroism, despair, and hope. Albums like Burnt Offerings and The Dark Saga cemented his reputation, making Iced Earth a staple for metalheads worldwide.

But in early 2021, everything changed.

On January 6, Jon Schaffer found himself at the center of a big political controversy in the United States. Photographs and security footage showed him entering the Capitol building, an act that would ignite outrage, confusion, and deep reflection. Law enforcement swiftly moved in; he was arrested, charged, and faced a mountain of accusations.

Yet, as the legal process unfolded, Schaffer made a choice that surprised many: he cooperated, pled guilty, and accepted responsibility. His sentence included probation and community service, and a pardon from President Donald Trump later erased some of the legal shadows. Still, beneath the headlines was a man wrestling with far more profound questions.

“I realize my behavior wasn’t the greatest,” Schaffer admitted in interviews. “It was entrapment, one hundred percent. The truth will come out, but I let my emotions get the better of me. I think there was a force at work there I can’t really put into words.”

In the midst of his incarceration, something unexpected happened, an awakening that would redefine his life. Schaffer described it as a journey from darkness into light, a slow but steady process.

“It was the beginning of my faith journey,” he reflected. “Being in solitary, I had a lot of time to think. I started reading the Bible, but I wasn’t really there at first. It was a slow process because I’m very bullheaded. I’ve always been stubborn. But I realized how out of whack I was, especially after a falling-out with my daughter. That was ugly, terrible, but it was a wake-up call.”

He spoke about an internal battle, one that many face when confronted with their own flaws and mistakes. “I started feeling a pull towards something greater,” he said. “I felt the need to find truth, to ask for forgiveness, and to seek something that could give me real peace.”

His turning point came during a visit to Lakeview Church in Tarpon Springs, Florida. Schaffer was drawn to the community and the sincerity of the faith he encountered there.

“I just fell in love with the place,” he recalled. “I stayed at my friend’s house nearby, went to church sometimes, and asked Pastor Tim Miller if he would baptize me. I wanted to make a personal decision to declare that I was changing, that I was leaving my past behind.”

The baptism was more than just a ritual; it was a symbol of rebirth. “I knew that it didn’t guarantee salvation,” Schaffer explained, “but I wanted a fresh start. I wanted to be baptized because I felt it was my choice. I had no choice as a baby, but this time, I was making a conscious decision.”

He described that moment as a pivotal step on a longer journey. “Jesus is the only way—absolutely clear to me now,” he said with conviction. “It’s not just a religion; it’s a relationship. And I’ve come to understand that in a way I never did before.”

A Man in Search of Redemption

For Schaffer, the path to faith was not instant. It was a process of introspection, humility, and surrender. He poured himself into understanding the Bible, recognizing themes of love, forgiveness, and salvation that he now felt deeply connected to.

“It’s like an operator’s manual,” he mused. “The Bible shows us how to thrive in a fallen world, how to navigate darkness with light. And Jesus—He’s the only way. That’s absolutely clear now.”

He openly admits that his previous worldview was clouded by stubbornness and a desire to control. “I was very driven, very hardheaded,” he said. “But I realize now that I was missing the point. I thought I knew everything, but I was blind. The Bible opened my eyes.”

His faith has become a guiding force, inspiring him to think about his future—both personally and musically.

“There are some releases I’ve got in mind,” he shared, “that will reflect this new walk. I want to do something that glorifies God. Music has always been part of my life, and now I see it as a way to share hope, truth, and love.”

The Band in Turmoil and a Legacy in Limbo

The recent upheaval surrounding Schaffer’s legal issues and his spiritual journey has left Iced Earth in limbo. The remaining band members distanced themselves from Schaffer’s actions. The band’s future remains uncertain, but Schaffer’s renewed faith offers a different perspective, one of hope and reconciliation.

“I hope that, someday, we can come back together,” Schaffer says. “Not just for music, but for healing. I want my life to be about purpose, about doing what’s right.”

Meanwhile, former Iced Earth vocalist Matt Barlow’s story continues on a different path. Known for his powerful voice and emotional delivery, Barlow, who fronted the band from 1993 to 2003 and from 2007 to 2011, stepped away from music for a time to pursue a career in law enforcement, emphasizing the importance of service and community.

“Music is part of who I am,” Barlow once said. “But I also wanted to serve and protect. I’m proud of my time with Iced Earth, and I support Jon’s journey, whatever he chooses to do next.”

Barlow’s respect for Schaffer remains intact, even amid controversy. “Jon’s a talented musician,” he acknowledges. “I hope he finds peace and purpose in his faith. That’s what matters most.”

Barlow's voice is forever linked to Iced Earth and will continue to be so. His current band Ashes of Ares will celebrate the upcoming 30th anniversary of Iced Earth's third album, 1996's "The Dark Saga", on a European tour in September and October 2025.

Looking Ahead

As Jon Schaffer walks his path of faith and redemption, the story of Iced Earth isn’t over. His words echo a desire to create music that uplifts and inspires, rooted in biblical truth and personal growth. Whether that manifests in new projects or simply in his daily walk, the journey continues.

And for Barlow, who is Jon's brother-in-law, the future holds the promise of reconnecting with fans and continuing to share his voice and stories, reminders that even in the darkest times, there is hope, renewal, and the possibility of light. Will he sing for Iced Earth again? It's not out of the question. There is a sense that Jon and Matt will once again, in some way, work together. However, Matt has explained in interviews that his job as a police officer makes it difficult to go out on tour for extended periods of time.

The story of Jon Schaffer and Iced Earth is a testament to the complexity of human life, of mistakes and regrets, but also of hope and transformation. It reminds us that behind the thunder and fire of heavy metal are real people seeking meaning, forgiveness, and peace. And sometimes, the greatest stories are the ones of redemption, of finding the light after walking through darkness.

https://www.facebook.com/OfficialIcedEarth

Iced Earth - Alive In Athens (1999) Full show

Demon Hunter "The Pain In Me Is Gone" Lyric Video

Long-running American heavy metal band Demon Hunter has released a lyric video for "The Pain In Me Is Gone," the fourth single from their twelfth album, There Was A Light Here. The album, which releases on September 12th, is a tribute to frontman Ryan Clark's mother and explores themes of love and loss. "The Pain In Me Is Gone" is a melodic track featuring heavy instrumentation and clean vocals. The lyrics convey a message of release and protection, with lines like, "The pain in me is gone, as I pass it on to you," and "I will shelter you from harm, if it's all I ever do." From what I see online, the early reaction to the song's chorus and Ryan Clark's vocal performance are very positive, and fans are happy to have new music from their beloved band. The video presents the song's lyrics before the full album becomes available. There is a lot of anticipation building amongst the fans. It seems like September 12th, 2025 cannot get here soon enough!

Lyrics:

The pain in me is gone

As I pass it on to you

Am I right in feeling wrong

Can we cauterize our wounds

The pain in me is gone

And my love for you is true

I couldn’t drag you along

Through this agony so blue

The pain in me is gone

My solitude is not what it used to be

The pain in me is gone

How do I help you carry on

The pain in me is gone

As I long to pull you through

I will shelter you from harm

If it’s all I ever do

The pain in me is gone

Will you ever see the proof

I won’t just veil it in a song

I will say it right to you

I weighed the guilt of my tomorrow

And all the pain behind your eyes

So hard to focus on my sorrow

When all your worry’s bound with mine

Demon Hunter "The Pain In Me Is Gone" Lyric Video

https://www.facebook.com/demonhunter

Wretched - Decay (Official Video)

Wretched

Decay

October 17th, 2025

Metal Blade Records

ABOUT THE ALBUM: For the last two years, Charlotte, North Carolina’s lauded metal monsters WRETCHED worked on the songs that would populate their long-awaited fifth full-length, Decay. Set for release on October 17th on Metal Blade Records, the result is a conceptual masterpiece that blends haunting melodies with progressive complexity.

This fifth album, which is a prequel to 2010’s Beyond The Gate, delves into existential themes, D&D-inspired mythology, and personal loss. The record sees the boundary-pushing lineup breaking past defined walls of their four previous releases. Sonically, Decay may be WRETCHED’s most pristine-sounding recording, but it’s still raw with a live feeling in the performances. The band didn’t track the parts until they sounded like a computer. You hear guitarist Steven Funderburk pick through the strings and fret the instrument, bassist Andrew Grevey shines on bass with a potent musicality and movement, his parts as much a part of the sound and structure of the songs as the guitar. Vocally, Billy Powers went as raw as humanly possible, pushing himself and the instrumentals to their furthest for an uncompromisingly powerful performance on every track.

“We’ve had a lot of time to grow and reflect in the time between our last album and Decay,” says drummer Marshall Wieczorek. “WRETCHED is doing what WRETCHED always does, and that’s exploring our environment and leaving room for ourselves to try different things. To sum things up, the new album is dynamic. We go here, we go there, we go everywhere. There is no shortage of groove, heaviness, speed, melodicism, prettiness, and sadness.”

“Decay is 100% a concept album,” confirms Powers. “Beyond The Gate had an element this record shares, the talisman. I always knew there was more story there and was very excited to join up with the guys again to put that in motion. The first track I wrote was ‘The Golden Tide.’ I had no idea where I was going to take the story connection to Beyond The Gate until I typed the first line of the song. ‘They began in the dark.’ After that, the lyrics poured out of my mind and by the end of it I realized that this story takes place many years before the content of Beyond The Gate.”

The LP’s title track and first single contains the album’s main character, Malus, along with a character from Beyond The Gate named Elturiel. “In the song, ‘decay’ refers to Malus’ decaying existence, the feeling of loss, and helplessness/lack of control he has to influence anything outside of the darkness in which he has been cast.”

In broader terms, decay refers to many elements of the album’s story, “The decay of good intention, the loss of loved ones, the influence time and choices has upon our bodies and minds and the decay of the world around us due to the choices of those with ultimate power.”

Powers further elaborates, “[The song] ‘Decay’ is a chapter in our story in which our main character Malus has lost his physical body due to becoming possessed by an ancient Necromancer. He is just a conscious thought floating through the void between time and space, conjuring a familial djinn named Elturiel to gain his assistance in returning to his mortal shell. This track revolves a lot around out of body experience, lucid dreaming, inner voices/internal dialogue, and the potential for reincarnation. It’s the feeling when you’re so sure that you’ve lost it all, yet you see that little shimmering glimmer of hope at the end of a long, dark tunnel. Then you have the rug pulled out from underneath you to find that the darkness is what you may only ever know. Not to say that all hope is lost because, in the context of the lyrics, it is not. There’s a repeated line near the middle and ending of the song that says ‘once more upon this eternal flat circle.’ It is inspired by True Detective S1 where it’s said ‘time is a flat circle.’ This has all happened before and will all happen again. I’m not a flat earther.”

Billy Powers – vocals

Steven Funderburk – guitars

Andrew Grevey – bass

Marshall Wieczorek – drums

Wretched - Decay (Official Video)

https://www.facebook.com/wretchednc

Arallu - new song by Israeli black metal band

I have been enjoying this new song by Arallu. It's an intense song!

Arallu

Sierra Nevada Single (single)

July 11, 2025

In September 2003 the brother of the leader of the long-running Israeli black metal band 𝕬𝖗𝖆𝖑𝖑𝖚 was kidnapped by the terrrorist guerrilla organization in Colombia while searching for ancient jungle-shrouded ruins in a remote mountainous region. 𝕬𝖗𝖆𝖑𝖑𝖚's leader went there to search for him and to try to assist in his release. The release happened after 101 days of captivity.

The lyrics are story about the long ordeal, written by the band’s frontman. In the background you hear the voice of Beni Daniel, the frontman’s brother, reading from the journal he wrote while he was held captive by the ELN terrorist outfit.

Arallu fuses black metal with traditional Middle Eastern sounds. Formed in Jerusalem in 1997, the band has become a significant force in the Israeli metal underground. The name "Arallu" refers to the ancient Mesopotamian underworld, a fitting name for a band whose music explores dark and aggressive themes. The project was initially started by Moti "Butchered" Daniel, who remains the band's frontman and core member. His experiences living in a region of intense religious and political conflict have heavily influenced the band's direction. Arallu's signature sound is a mix of black and death metal with authentic Middle Eastern folk elements. They frequently incorporate traditional instruments like the saz (a type of long-necked lute) and the darbuka (a goblet drum) alongside blast beats and distorted guitars.

Their lyrical themes are heavily influenced by their environment, focusing on war, anti-religious sentiments, Mesopotamian mythology, destruction, and the ongoing conflicts in the Middle East. While their lyrics are provocative, with album titles like The War on the Wailing Wall and Satanic War in Jerusalem, frontman Moti Daniel has stated that the band is not political but rather a radical reflection of the violence and hypocrisy they observe.

Arallu "Sierra Nevada" Single (Digital Only) by Arallu

https://arallu.bandcamp.com

https://www.facebook.com/ARALLU666

Wayne - Metal Church (August 7th, 2001)

Wayne

Metal Church

August 7th, 2001

Nuclear Blast Records

1. The Choice 03:44

2. The Hammer Will Fall 03:55

3. Soos Creek Cemetary 03:38

4. Hannibal 04:30

5. Burning at the Stake 03:22

6. D.S.D. 04:15

7. Nightmare (Part II) 02:58

8. Vlad 04:25

9. Ballad for Marianne 05:31

10. Mississippi Queen (Mountain cover) 02:46

total time 39:04

David Wayne - Vocals

Mark Franco - Bass

B.J. Zampa - Drums

Jimi Bell - Guitars

Released under Nuclear Blast Records, the album features solid riffs, unique vocals, and a great rhythm section. David Wayne (1958-2005) and his collaborators blend traditional metal elements with contemporary influences of the time. The resulting sound feels both fresh and rooted in heavy metal's classic foundations. The music on this album is energetic and impressive, with meaty riffs woven throughout, and lyrical themes that explore perseverance and strength. Wayne’s vocal performance brings forth his distinctive voice that fans of his work with Metal Church will immediately recognize. Each track offers something a little bit different. "D.S.D." presents a slow, dark, and powerful atmosphere, while "Nightmare Part 2" shifts gears with a faster tempo, highlighting Wayne’s versatility. The song "Ballad For Marianne" stands out as a melodic, softer piece, appealing to fans of Metal Church's more gentle moments. The production quality captures the raw power of the band, balancing aggressive and melodic styles. Overall, Metal Church by Wayne, for fans of the vocalist, is a fun addition to his discography, combining heavy riffs, solid songwriting, and his unmistakable vocals. It’s an album that will resonate with fans of heavy, energetic, and well-crafted traditional heavy metal music, confirming Wayne’s enduring talent, which is attested by his discography, that has outlived him. Trivia: The last song is a fun cover of the classic of 1970s heavy rock by the legendary band Mountain from the 1970 album Climbing! The Mountain debut album was such an influential album that plenty of metal bands have covered that particular song. Here we get David Wayne's tribute to Mountain.

WAYNE - Metal Church (2001)

Mountain - Climbing! (1970) Full Album

Exoneration - Arkansas metalcore band streaming three songs

On the 29th of August the Arkansas, U.S. heavy-duty metalcore/deathcore/death metal merchants of brutality Exoneration are going to show their entire new album to the world: Monuments to Nothing. Expect low, guttural growling and harrowing screams, and some unexpected melodic singing (!). Yeah, it seems confusing, but if you check out the three songs that they are streaming ahead of the album, maybe it will make more sense.

Recommended especially for fans of brutal/melodic metalcore 2025! Arkansas is about to represent.

Monuments To Nothing by Exoneration

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61563351883433

American thrash Vindicator - 2 Visualizers: "Thirst for Violence"; and "Battle Box"

Check out these two visualizers from the upcoming album Whispers of Death by American thrashers Vindicator.

Vindicator

Whispers of Death

22 August 2025

ABOUT THE BAND: Cleveland, Ohio... A town where sports come to die and metal comes to live. A city that has seen its share of metal titans by their own rights. In 2005, the city would give birth to another bastard of speed and aggression. VINDICATOR continues to unleash their signature brand of thrash metal to die-hard fans of the genre and the unsuspecting alike.

Ohio's thrash torchbearers VINDICATOR are gearing up for the release of Whispers of Death, the band's fifth and most destructive full-length album. Known for their firebranded approach to songwriting and relentless energy, VINDICATOR delivers an album true to their roots. This is raw, aggressive thrash — no filler, no compromise and no bullshit. Thrash or be thrashed. The album follows acclaimed releases like United We Fall (2012) and Communal Decay (2021), and shows the band at their most focused and intense.

VINDICATOR will strike out on a four-city trek in support of Whispers of Death with Indiana thrashers Graveripper. The Whispering Death tour dates are as follows:

August 28 @ The Grog Shop - Cleveland, OH

August 29 @ The Hidden Gem - Dayton, OH

August 30 @ Helltown Brewing - Mt. Pleasant, PA

August 31 @ State Street Pub - Indianapolis, IN

Whispers of Death by Vindicator

Vindicator - Thirst for Violence "Official Visualizer"

Vindicator - Battle Box "Official Visualizer"

https://www.facebook.com/vindicatormetal

Victim of Fire - Disharmonist (Official Music Video) [2025 Blackened D-beat]

Victim of Fire

The Old Lie

Human Future Records/Return Trip Records

1 August 2025

BIO Victim of Fire: Denver, Colorado's stadium crust act VICTIM OF FIRE deliver an engulfing sonic experience with a significant focus on twin guitar harmonies. Seeking to set the stage ablaze with their new album and forthcoming tour dates around North America and Canada this September, The Old Lie that is set for release on August 1, 2025 via Human Future Records/Return Trip Records.

The Old Lie is a continuation of the bands sound from where they left off with Disembrace in 2022. This album also sees a shift in the band's creative process, being the first to include contributions from every live member. The title track kicks off the release with a somewhat divergent sound. Steering into the melo-death territory, VICTIM OF FIRE showcase the genre fusion aspect of their sound while still retaining their roots as a d-beat crust band. "The Old Lie"’s lyrics come from a poem by the English Poet Wilfred Owens, lifting the curtain behind the bleak realities experienced by soldiers in World War One.

Rife with harmonies, "Apocalyptic Inclination" exposes the 'warfare mindset' reinforced by politicians, especially in the US. "Wayward Light" continues the trajectory of the fast and melodic in a ferocious fury of riffs and harmonies. "Nightmares of Ceasefire" sees the fast and the furious endure, thematically exploring the perspectives of those who profit from war and death. "Soldiers Dream" is also influenced by Wilfred Owen's poem from which the song's title is taken. An enthralling combination of emotions, textures and tones, it's also the fastest track on the album.

A staple of the band's live shows "Discordance" was written from a more personal perspective about the process of adjusting to 'reality' following a period of touring. "Barren Path" sees VICTIM OF FIRE present an open and honest sharing of struggles with imposter syndrome. Shifting gears, "Front Towards enemy" embarks on a wild ride stylistically, deviating from the rest of the track list. Followed by "Disharmonist", the band's self proclaimed "magnum opus", the track original appeared as a single in 2021. For The Old Lie, it's been revamped with further harmonies and an increase in speed. VICTIM OF FIRE end with their own distinctive take on IRON MAIDEN's "Aces High".

Initially formed in 2016, the Denver hailing blackened crust ensemble began as a side project filling in a creative gap and available studio time. Now, almost a decade later, the quartet are preparing to unearth their third studio album, The Old Lie, and bring their explosive sound to the masses around the US and Canada.

Inspired by the likes of TRAGEDY, DISFEAR, IN FLAMES, DISMEMBER and IRON MAIDEN, Austin reveals his creative influences, "harmonized guitars have always been my favorite part of music ever since I discovered IRON MAIDEN at the age of 16, and I’ve just been trying to recreate it in my bands wherever I can. Also not being afraid to take a risk with a song of musical style to see if it connects. We aren’t trying to be the crustiest crust band, we want to blend a bunch of styles together to make something fun and energetic to play live."

Victim of Fire - Disharmonist (Official Music Video) [2025 Blackened D-beat]

The Old Lie by Victim of Fire

Reinforcer - Ice And Death (lyric video)

ABOUT the band: Forged in the flames of myth and history, Reinforcer returns with a new album of heroic power metal. “Ice And Death” is Reinforcer at their finest: razor-sharp guitar riffs, sweeping dual harmonies and driving double bass rhythms power the soundscape, while Logan Lexi’s commanding vocals roar with great emotional depth. Melancholic melodies intertwine with fist-raising choruses, inviting listeners to sing along in unity and battle spirit. Taking its name from the Norse legend of Ymir, the frost giant born from ice and chaos, “Ice And Death” leads listeners on a journey through time, retelling tales of plague-ridden cities, deceptive pied pipers, and legendary heroes and rogues from the shadows of the past. Each track is a chapter, echoing with the clang of steel and the whisper of forgotten legends. Whether recounting the gruesome mystery of the Pied Piper of Hamelin or the haunting grip of the Black Death in London, the album fuses historical drama with dynamic storytelling and touches of dark fantasy.

Reinforcer

Ice And Death

Scarlet Records

22 August 2025

REINFORCER - Ice And Death (lyric video)

https://www.facebook.com/reinforcermetal/

review: Iron Savior - Reforged - Machine World

Iron Savior

Reforged - Machine World

Perception/Reigning Phoenix Music

22 August 2025

Disc 1

1. Never Say Die (2025 Re-Recorded)

2. Eye of the World (2025 Re-Recorded)

3. Walls of Fire (2025 Re-Recorded)

4. Time Will Tell (2025 Re-Recorded)

5. Dragons Rising (2025 Re-Recorded)

6. Stonecold (2025 Re-Recorded)

7. Machine World (2025 Re-Recorded)

8. Stand Against the King (2025 Re-Recorded)

9. Break it Up (2025 Re-Recorded)

15:57

Disc 2

1. Contortions of Time (2025 Re-Recorded)

2. Wings of Deliverance (2025 Re-Recorded)

3. Touching the Rainbow (2025 Re-Recorded)

4. I Will Be There (2025 Re-Recorded)

5. Forevermore (2025 Re-Recorded)

6. H.M. Powered Man (2025 Re-Recorded)

7. Starbreaker (Judas Priest Cover)

Especially for new fans, this album is a cool introduction to Iron Savior (Germany), the long-running band (1996-present) known for a pure, traditional, no-nonsense sound in the spirit of classic-prototypical Judas Priest-Accept heavy metal songwriting as their mode of operation. This album here is not new songs, but rather new recordings of songs released on previous albums. It looks like this is possibly the third album in their endeavor to record their songs again. In particular for audiences outside of Germany, this album provides a good view of the band's style over the decades, which consists of pounding-metal songs and anthemic-songwriting, with the rare slower tracl here and there.

It is important to note, I think, that unlike perhaps other bands that may feel that their previous albums did not have the sound quality that the band wanted, Iron Savior is not a band whose previous albums did not have a good sound or a good production. On the contrary, Iron Savior albums have a clear, strong sound quality. They have always recorded their albums well because their mastermind guitarist-vocalist Piet Sielck is an expert metal music recording engineer and producer with a long list of metal bands that he has worked with, including doing the engineering for a bunch of Blind Guardian albums. There is no real music-related or production-related reason to record the songs again. Why? Because these songs already sounded great in their previous form. The band has recorded their older songs for legal and business reasons: Bands often record their old songs again in order to have more control in business situations that are disadvantageous for the musicians.

Personally, I have enjoyed these 16 songs in their new versions, including the last track that is a cover of Judas Priest’s "Starbreaker." Iron Savior is a consistent band, and really, a dream for traditional heavy metal fans that don't like their bands getting all weird, experimental or "trying out" new things by incorporating whatever is the latest fashion. They began as a band that focuses on the best elements of the pure heavy metal of the Judas Priest-Accept style of writing songs: roaring guitars, quality solos, a big rhythm section and strong vocals. In this case, with a powerful midrange to higher midrange male singing, without banshee screaming.

The Iron Savior head honcho Piet Sielck was with Kai Hansen all the way back in 1978 in the early version of what would later become Helloween, and Piet came out with Iron Savior and the first album (1997) had the participation of his old friend Kai Hansen. In 1997 Piet was 34 years and right now in 2025 he is 61 years old. A couple of years ago he went through cancer treatment. Therefore, as you would expect, the voice of a 61-year-old man in 2025 who has gone through cancer treatment, after decades of performing, recording, and no doubt, overworking himself as a musician and studio engineer, is different from the young man in 1997. Even though his voice has changed, sounding more melodic but also less muscular, this older Iron Savior delivers good, fun performances on the album. Lastly, while this review is mostly for fans outside of Germany (I live in the U.S.), it should be mentioned that longtime German fans might not feel as motivated to have duplicate copies of the songs. If you already own the previous albums, it is reasonable if you want to think twice before buying this album.

Eye of the World (2025 Re-Recorded)

Walls of Fire (2025 Re-Recorded)

https://www.facebook.com/ironsavior1996

Stryper's Michael Sweet pens a tribute to his recently deceased father

Michael Sweet, the vocalist and guitarist for the long-running American heavy metal band Stryper (1980-present) wrote a wonderful tribute to his recently deceased father. Below you will find Michael's tribute. In other Stryper news, they have a new song called "Still the Light" (see below).

I wanted to write a few thoughts about my dad and let you all know about the man that he was. First, my dad had a big heart. My mom went through some very tough times and was involved in some difficult relationships early on, and wound up a very young mother of two. She met my dad, Philip Harrison Sweet, and they fell in love. Not long after that, I was introduced to the world on 7/4/63. I just made it after midnight and my dad was very happy about the fact that I was born on the Fourth of July. He was hoping and praying for that.

Dad adopted my sister Lisa and my brother Robert. That’s who he was. A man with a huge heart who loved us all the same. Without partiality as he just wanted to be an amazing father to the three of us. He worked hard to pay the bills, and it certainly was not easy. Ever. I recall experiencing tough times financially growing up, but we always found a way. He always found a way. He was a musician through and through. A great singer, songwriter, guitar player, bass player and he always had an incredible sense of music.

He taught me how to play my first chords when I was 5 years old (on his Gibson Jumbo 12 string). I can still smell the varnish of that guitar. I’ll never forget it. He also taught me how to play bass and let me use his blue Fender Jazz bass and Fender Bassman amp for a talent show that me and Rob entered when I was in 3rd grade. The bass was twice the size of me! Lisa played tambourine. And Rob played drums of course. We performed “Walk Don’t Run” & “Honky Tonk”. We won first place! He always took the time to instill the love of music into our hearts and souls.

My mom and dad were managed by Mike Curb back in the day and they had their share of gigs, movies, record deals and a real taste of the music business/world. They obviously passed that onto us. Every garage in every home was given up to us. As a rehearsal room. No questions asked. The family cars were always parked in the driveway because of that and it just became second nature. They put up with a lifetime of loud music, shaking walls and countless people in and out of all the homes that we lived in throughout the years. Without their dedication and support, there would be no Stryper. There would be no music. We would have certainly taken a different path.

Add to that my dad’s undying support of me auditioning for Rob’s band. My dad always gently pursued that and convinced Rob to try me out early on. I was 12, Rob was 15. The rest as they say is history, and I owe that to my dad.

One line that dad used often (and it became a running joke within our camp) was - “You’re on the brink of superstardom”. He would say that every day. We would laugh but somehow I think he knew that those words would actually become reality. He knew we would break. He knew we would “make it” in this crazy, unpredictable business. Then we all made the best decision of our lives - we gave our hearts to Jesus. And our dad helped navigate that as well.

He also wrote a lot of songs throughout his life. He managed to write a number one country song in 1976 called “I Don’t Want To Have To Marry You”. He co-wrote that song with Fred Imus, the brother of Don Imus. That was a very exciting time and I remember thinking how happy I was for my dad. To see his dreams come true after years of working for the Southern Pacific railroad to pay the bills. Sadly and tragically, that job cost my dad his life.

My dad was not as publically involved in our careers as mom was. But he was much more involved than given credit for. Always teaching us, showing us, instilling within us, music. He gave us that gift and we are eternally grateful.

Although I didn’t see dad very often in the last 30 years (once a year of that), I loved him more than he will ever know. He was a Star. He was a mountain. He was a teacher. He was our world. This is just a glimpse of who my dad was. It doesn’t do him justice. He was so much more. Thank you dad for making all of this possible. We will never forget all that you have done and we will see you soon

I love you ~ Michael

Stryper - "Still The Light" - Official Lyric Video

https://www.facebook.com/Stryper

Ashes of the Sun - Here to Stay (video)

What if Metallica and Alice Chains collaborated on a song? That's the idea of this project, which is the solo work of longtime Freya contributor Ethan D. Henry. It's a throwback to 1990s as Mr. Henry remembers the decade. Check out the video below to hear it for yourself.

Ashes of the Sun

Gods With Machines

Ignorant Tourist Productions

1 August 2025

01 - Sophisticated Clowns 5:50

02 - Save The World 4:18

03 - Forced To Kill 5:51

04 - The Elephant 4:35

05 - A New Way To Die 4:26

06 - Gods With Machines 5:15

07 - The Lost Ones 4:08

08 - Here To Stay 6:11

09 - They Bleed Just Like You 4:31

HERE TO STAY

A New Way to Die

https://www.instagram.com/ethanhenry43/

Calico Jack - the pirates have arrived

Calico Jack

Jack Peak Shanties

Rockshots Records

18 July 2025

1. Wellerman 04:11

2. Don’t Forget Your Old Shipmate 04:02

3. Off to Sea Once More 03:49

4. The 24th of February 04:43

5. Spanish Ladies 05:18

Is this the first time that you have heard the name Calico Jack?! That's ok, you are not the only sailor! What is a Calico Jack? Well, it's a heavy metal pirate company. They transport tea and whiskey across the Atlantic under questionable conditions and sus ethics. If you see them loading barrels of merchandise onto ships and boats, things might look fishy, and even though fishy things don't smell good, this contraband will bring delight to your nose, ears and to your hands and feet, as you might feel the urge to stand up and stomp your way around the tavern. Skibidi! Chips ahoy, matey, to the delight of thy brethren and to the chagrin of the jealous neighbors, this is what heavy metal does to pirates and it is what pirates do to heavy metal. From now on, say it no more and say it never again, the Calico Jack has bought the farm and purchased the beverages for the crew, it is you that will walk the plank and they will laugh all the way to the bank. Wish them no harm, wish them no foul, for they, these pirates of the high seas, only want to have what they understand to be booty and what is booty, but a figment of a pirate's imagination. Eat, drink and be merry, for tomorrow we'll be weary, and the oceans all the more scary, but Calico Jack at the helm, all be well and well all be. Hurrah and huzzah, the pirates rejoice and the fish enjoy a breath of fresh air, finally free from the ocean. Let the pirates declare, "Mamma mia, i'mma comma home-a!"

CALICO JACK - Wellerman (OFFICIAL MUSIC VIDEO) 4K

CALICO JACK - Don't Forget Your Old Shipmate (OFFICIAL LYRIC VIDEO)

AMORPHIS - Light And Shadow (Official Lyric Video)

https://www.facebook.com/amorphis

Freeze the Fall - new hard rock from British Columbia, Canada

I don't know much about this band, such as their history and things like that. They are from British Columbia, Canada, according to Bandcamp. They play a melodic style of heavy rock. It is catchy, with very melodic singing. I was surprised by how memorable or how ear-friendly it is. If you like labels, it looks like on Bandcamp there are labels like "emo metal" or "alt metal" and things like that. I don't know what "emo" means and I don't know if the band call themselves "emo." Frankly, all such things are not that interesting. You can listen for yourself on Bandcamp, and decide for yourself the one question that matters: Do you like what you hear?

Below the Bandcamp recording, because people are curious and don't just listen with their ears, check out a couple of their videos. Warning: The videos are not suitable for sensitive or younger audiences. The videos are rather normal with the "shock" factor, as are so many heavy rock music videos that are not band performances.

Freeze the Fall

The Red Garden

604 Records

18 June 2025

Denial 0:59

Rot 3:37

Hypothermia 3:40

VHS 3:32

Aurora 3:45

Oubliette 4:09

Lace 3:33

The Red Garden by Freeze the Fall

https://www.facebook.com/freeze.the.fall.band/

Freeze the Fall - ROT (Official Music Video)

Freeze the Fall - VHS (Official Music Video)

EchoSoul - "Time of the Dragon" is the sophomore album from Indiana, U.S. heavy metal band

If you answer "yes"to the following question, then this music might be for you. Do you like traditional heavy metal music that may require a few listens before the songs can be better understood?

Active since 2019, EchoSoul is old-school U.S. heavy metal-progressive metal with high vocals. This is their second album. The lyrics seem to center on the apocalypse and the music is no-nonsense heavy metal, in a progressive style. It is guitar-based music with singing, and the songs require more than one listen to make a lot more sense. It is not super complicated and it is not necessary to listen for days and days before it makes sense, but it is not poppy power metal or synth-drenched happy-happy metal. It is not party-metal music. The band simply seeks listeners that appreciate good musicianship and a serious approach to making music.

EchoSoul

Time of the Dragon

No Dust Records

15 May 2025

1. Prologue 01:30

2. Time of the Dragon 04:40

3. Path of the Righteous 07:01

4. Sister Suicide 04:43

5. Instruments of Chaos 05:54

6. Hollowed Ground 05:29

7. Invisible Empire 05:43

8. Split 04:30 instrumental

9. Die Demon Die 05:07

10. A New Conspiracy 04:54

total time 49:31