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Axe Steeler: On The Run

Traditional Heavy/Speed Metal

4.0/5.0

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Iron Shield Records
Released: 07.09.2018
Words: Craig Hartranft
Added: 05.09.2018

From the cocaine capital of the world, Columbia SA, comes Axe Steeler, a traditional heavy metal band. Formed a mere three years ago, the band dropped a three song EP back in 2016. Now signed to Germany's Iron Shield Records, Axe Steeler presents their debut eight song long player, which includes the tunes from the EP.

Axe Steeler

Little explanation is required for Axe Steeler's metal style. The band is simply tearing a page from the NWoBHM playbook and offering classic heavy speed metal. You'll note the basic elements: twin guitars for harmony and leads, a rapid and roaring rhythm section for speed and groove, and clean vocals, yet a bit on the ear-piercing screamo side. All this provides racing metal numbers with Back To The Stage, On The Run, and Over The Top. For some twists, Axes Of Steel and Battlefield begin with some fashionable drum flurry supported by a tight base line.

But the stand out track, and perhaps most out of character with the rest, is the instrumental Beyond The Stars. The song begins with a subtle piano line that lingers throughout the song, and then turns, not on speed, but detailed and strong guitar harmony and leads. While Axe Steeler may have classic heavy speed metal defined, Beyond The Stars shows the promise of more sophisticated and engaging heavy metal from the band. I hope I'm right, and I hope Axe Steeler is a band to watch for in the future. Otherwise, if you love classic, keep it true, heavy metal made relevant for today, Axe Steeler's On The Run is a fine contribution to the genre. Recommended.

Note: All Amazon advertising in this review first benefits the artist, then Craig Hartranft also receives a residual. Click, and thanks for your support.

If you love classic, keep it true, heavy metal made relevant for today, Axe Steeler's On The Run is a fine contribution to the genre. Recommended.

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The Powell Payne project, created in 2022 is the collaboration of Mark "Penfold Powell (ex-drummer of Psycho Kiss) and Adam Payne (former vocalist of Airrace). With guitarist Adam Davies and keyboard player ... [ Read More ]