The Info
Many will be aware of the Helloween/Gamma Ray connection with Kai Hansen being one of the founding members of Helloween, but later quitting the project and forming the band Gamma Ray. The band has since become legendary in the Melodic Speed Metal genre. The latest masterpiece from the band 'No World Order' is another great chapter in the bands career. Released via the Noise label in the States via Sanctuary, there is a lot of greatness presented.
The Music
If you like Gamma Ray, this album is a no-brainer. It is very consistent with the bands previous efforts, but does offer some new solidity to the process. You'll hear some familiar influence such as classic Judas Priest and some others, but all with the explosive sound the fans come to expect. I didn't find much filler on this disc. Seemed solid from beginning to end with tracks like 'Dethrone Tyranny', 'Solid', 'Follow Me', and 'Eagle' being my personal favorites. I really liked 'Introduction' as well with it being a cool opening intro with some catchy chants. For the Metal fan, there is a little bit of everything. Fast stuff, crunchy stuff, and music with a large amount of substance like 'Lake of Tears'. All in all, the album is very consistent and worthy.
Overall
As mentioned before, if you are a fan, you probably already have it. If you don't, you will like it. These guys have really made their mark on the scene and are influencing a hungry new breed of musicians. I think the artwork is over the top cool as well. This album is a pretty complete package. Well done!
The Info
Straight out of one of the greatest invasions Metal has ever seen comes the mighty Demon! NWOBHM legends Demon brought their very distinct sound back in the early '80's. This particular release hit the market in 1983 and now, many years later we get the reissue via Record Heaven Music. This reissue features a second disc with the original first mix. I felt that was a cool addition to this set.
The Music
For those who have heard the band's latest effort 'Spaced out Monkey' you are probably aware already of how consistent this band is in songwriting especially through the years. Sure, on this release you can tell that it was released in '83 although with the remastering it sounds damn good. Overall, that familiar structure and approach is evident. Being very familar with the music of that era, I can tell you how unique this band was. Heavy, yet melodic. Something still very much intact in Demon today. Listening to the two different mixes is cool. The main thing I noticed is the clarity of the new remaster. The new master definitely does justice to an almost 20 year old recording. It is nice however to have the original as well for the purists in us all. I do prefer the new mix however due to its dynamics. It sounds stellar and the music will go right to the soul.
Overall
I was a big fan of the big British invasion and was very familiar with most of the talent that came out of it. Demon was one that slipped through the cracks. I will say that I really dig these guys and this album is no exception. There is a lot of depth to the music and it really allows the mind to wonder. Don't miss it!
