Germany’s Mystic Prophecy are now in their 23rd year and with “Hellriot”, they continue to fly the heavy metal flag proudly. 12 albums into their career, they show no signs of deviating from their mission to produce classically inspired, neck muscle warming metal in the old school way. If you want to leave multiple sub-genres behind and just get into some head banging, step this way…
The title track kicks it all off in a Judas Priest inspired, anthemic slap around the chops and just keeps on going into “Unholy Hell”. Gang choruses, propulsive drums, raspy vocals, hooky riffs and widdly guitar leads are all present and correct…what more could you ask for? A bit of early Iron Maiden meets Dio influence shows up on “Demons Of The Night”. The aura of the ‘80’s glory period hangs heavy and gives these tracks a radio friendly accessibility. You need to buckle up for “Metal Attack” as the track does exactly what it says on the tin. Clichéd? Sure. Enjoyable? Definitely.
“Paranoia” mixes things up a little. Swathed in effects and with an immersive production gives it a bit more of an industrial edge. This is about as far off the path as the band gets though. The Zakk Wylde meets Dragonforce attack on “Revenge And Fire” get things back to where they belong. All the way through, Hanno Kerstan’s drumming is a force while the lead guitar work of Evan K is at times eye-wateringly sublime. The latter tracks are a little more reflective at times. “Road To Babylon” and “Azrael” have a deeper feel which sets up the explosive closing track “World On Fire” with some ripping lead guitar work that is a shredders delight.
After more than 20 years and a dozen albums, bands like Mystic Prophecy know their craft. That they do what they do so well is a testament to their worship of proper heavy metal. Whilst they’re not breaking new ground there’s a warm satisfaction in knowing bands like this still produce heavy music in the manner that some of us grew up with. The timelessness and sincerity is undeniable. Go on…
(7/10 Johnny Zed)
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