Barking at the world, Diabolical Night return with a second full length release. This is a project by multi-instrumentalist “Heavy Steeler”, at some stage with a live band, these tunes will see the light of day on stage. For now, you get to immerse in the speed/power metal of this talented individual, whom is joined on drums by “Christhunter”.

‘Starlit Skies’ and in particular its guitar work reminds me of Hansen and Weikath in their classic phase whilst being quite melodic enough to sing along to, even reaching into the NWoBHM scene. The overall describer is of black/speed metal though. This comes through in the majority, but I like those melodic touches that drift into other pastures, even those outside of the time changes. Still sticking with this track, you drift into the wilderness with its soft section towards to end, perhaps you’d even think of Maiden-isms here, later-Bathory too, it adds to the energetic nature and provides character. ‘Arktares has Fallen’ has some Running Wild hallmarks at its start for me, that quickly goes away once the main section of the track begins. We are back to high octane speed metal with battering drums and monolithic beastly vocals, although I’m not keen of the synth sounds that appear in a track with a running time of over 8 minutes long. ‘Vicious Assault’, oooh (in a Tom G Warrior tone!), blasts into life. Standing in a venue or field with fists raised high would defiantly suit this monster track. The pounding drums, precise execution of rhythm guitars and overall prowess of detail makes this a great beer drinking tune. ‘Tales of Past & Mystery ‘exhumes evil, the chords do this from the start. You are definitely walking down a darker path for this tune, providing the escapist nature of the lyrical themes presented. This tirade continues through to the following track ‘The Sacred Scriptures’ which take me to comparisons to fellow countrymen Old.

The album delivers its message, backed with some stellar artwork from Adam Burke (Portrait and Angel Witch to name a few). If you want your furious speed driven ride, then this album provides that. Developing from the debut ‘Beyond the Realm’, the Diabolic Night program is suitably one to sign up to.

(8/10 Paul Maddison)

https://www.facebook.com/DiabolicNight

https://diabolicnight.bandcamp.com/album/beneath-the-crimson-prophecy