Final Axe - Beyond Hell's Gate [CD]

Item Location: Wisconsin (USA)

2010 Retroactive Records

01. Beyond The Gate
02. Baptized In Blood
03. Are You Ready?
04. No Time To Die
05. Soldier Of Compromise
06. Blind Faith
07. Area 51
08. Close To Deliverance
09. Thrown In The Fire
10. Don't Run Away
11. War Cry
12. Rated X
13. Eternity

Time: 35:08
Media: Jewel Case (4 panel insert and lyrics)
Origin: USA

Originally released in 2005 after years of sitting on the shelf! This 2010 Collector's Edition features the drumming talents of megastar Robert Sweet of Stryper! The album has been remixed, remastered, and partially re-recorded! This heavy metal classic was originally recorded in 1989 but never saw a proper label release until 2005 (limited to just 1000 copies!). The 2010 Collector's Edition features stunning new artwork, while the music has been remixed, remastered and partially re-recorded. We extend a special thanks to the amazing Robert Sweet (Stryper) for providing real drums on this Collector's Edition (the original release featured a drum machine). We asked him to "really let loose" and to "drum like you've always wanted to - with no restrictions" and that's exactly what he did! The result is a world-class heavy metal release with drums by a bonafide superstar! In addition, there are three tracks included on the Collector's Edition that did not appear on the original release – an Intro track, an Outro track (both instrumental), but the real gem is the Rorbert Sweet Drum Solo entitled "Area 51". This is the very first Robert Sweet drum solo (studio recorded) released since the legendary Roxx Regime demo! Don't expect candy-coated glam metal here. Final Axe specializes in big, neck bulging, fist extending, righteous riffs. For fans of Judas Priest, Iron Maiden, Armored Saint and early Bloodgood. Enjoy! WHITE THRONE REVIEW New and improved comes this edition of the first Final Axe album entitled Beyond Hell's Gate. This is the original collaboration of guitar whiz Bill Menchen and vocalist Simon Tyler aka Keith Miles. These guys have brought Robert Sweet of Stryper on board to handle the proverbial pots and pans. This material was originally recorded and released in the early 90's It's no understatement to say that Sweets contribution adds the sound and rhythmic background that way the original was missing. This is the kinda heavy metal that the term headbanger was invented for. Fast and hard this disc hits like a truck doing 80 mph. Not that every song is fast but the addition of someone talented on the drums really drives the feel and groove. From "Baptized in Blood", "Close to Deliverance", "No Time to Die", all benefit from the improved sound and drum playing. For the most part the songs here are short sweet and to the point. You won't mistake Final Axe for some Prog band that's for sure. Menchens formula as it were is quick 3-4 minute metal tunes that make you bang yer head and get the feet pumpin. Armored Saint or perhaps early Saxon in heaviness and feel. At times the songs felt a little 'samey' or as we used say, "It sounds like one long song." At first that maybe the case but there are many gems in this rough. "War Cry", "Baptized in Blood", "No Time to Die", and closer "Rated X" are top drawer metal gems that will get your attention quickly. Cool tunes that grab on and dig in quickly, so quick that you'll want to hear it again. Pick up your denim, leather and grab that boom box as you're gonna want this album of solid metal tunes in your collection. Listening to this disc I'm reminded of Sammy Hagar who wrote a lyric that I find very apropos, he wrote "Headbangers in Leather... upfront fanatics tearing down the barricades!" See you down front.

- Retroactive Records

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