Description

Abattoir are a band not far removed from other early power/speed metal bands from America, similarities to Metal Church, Helstar, and Virgin Steele aren't hard to find. If you are familiar with those bands, then you will know what to expect here. Some fast paced heavy metal, a bit of a raw sound, over the top vocals, and shredding solos. Their singer actually sounds a bit like David Defeis (Virgin Steel) sounded around this time (eg Noble Savage) but with a bigger attitude. The guitars are great, good riffs, good solos and quality stuff. The best songs on the album are mostly the Virgin Steele style speed metal monsters. Songs like ‘Night of the Knife’, ‘Hammer of the Gods’, and ‘Bring on the Damned’ are seriously good speed metal. Some of the slower, mid paced songs are decent as well. ‘Nothing Sacred’ has some of the best hooks and melodies on the album, and is easily the catchiest song on here, though its a little cheesy. ‘Temptations of the Flesh’ has a good mid-paced driving rhythm, in more of a NWOBHM style. ‘The Only Safe Place’ is the highlight of the album, it starts off tame enough, with some slow chugging riffs but quickly launches off into aggressive speed metal. Good thrashy riffs, some great shredding, and a catchy Maiden sounding chorus. The solos and leads in this song are surprisingly very good. 1999 cd release Track listing: 1. Beyond The Altar 2. Bring On The Damned 3. The Only Safe Place 4. Nothing Sacred 5. Hammer Of The Godz 6. Back To Hell 7. Temptations Of The Flesh 8. Under My Skin 9. S.B.D. (Feel The Fire) 10. Night Of The Knife