US Metal NWoBHM

Original 1985-95/99

NEU / NEW

Credits:

Christopher Michael (vocals / bass)
Joe Sims (guitar)
Brian Henderson (drums)
Eric Lynch (vocals)
Jim Newcomb (bass)
Matt Smolk (drums)
Rock Barcker (vocals)
Greg Stocker (drums)

Tracks:

1. Golgotha
2. Bllod on the temple
3. Crusades
4. Demon machine
5. Slave to the blade
6. The predator
7. Phantom armies
8. Black dungeons
9. Secret untold
10.False consciousness
11.Naked eye
12.As the winds blow
13.Flowers for the dead
14.Farewell to a friend

Joe Sims has found some success as part of two bands over the last fifteen years fronting Axemaster and The Awakening in his journey to metal nirvana. This recording is a 'greatest hits' of sorts that displays Sims' progression from the mid-'80s to the mid-'90s. The songs are arranged in three groups; early-period Axemaster, late-era Axemaster, and The Awakening.

The first six tracks are taken from Axemaster's 1987 release "Blessings In The Skies." The tunes here are reminiscent of Headbanger's Ball-era metal (minus the pretty boy rock, of course) that recalls the likes of Saxon and Judas Priest with Samhain-styled vocals. A few of the tracks have an overall sound that recalls some of Randy Rhoads' tone (especially on the track "Crusades"). Clearly Joe Sims' talent outshines his other bandmates on these six tunes.

The next four tracks are taken from Axemaster's 1991 independent release "5 Demons" and showcases the band's evolving sound by adding a little post-thrash Metallica and a bit of ominous doom to the mix.

The last four tracks are taken from The Awakening's "Invictus" CD.  These four tracks display an even greater emphasis on overall mood and better songwriting to boot. "As The Wind Blows," "Flowers For The Dead," and "Farewell To A Friend" are great tracks that are worthy of airplay and great exposure. Sims' lead work on these four tracks show a serious nod to his influences of Criss Oliva and Dave Chastain.