I guess there are similarities between Saxon and Accept. Both bands recorded their debut albums in ’78 before NWOBHM had taken a hold, and thus both come across as more of hard rock bands than metal ones, but both would change their sound considerably.
If you’re a fan of Restless & Wild or Balls To The Wall then there is very little here that you may recognize. It’s quite strange to hear UDO’s voice on this album as it’s almost unrecognizable because the songs are sung with a very clean tone. In fact, Pete Baltes actually sings the ballad Seawinds and Sounds Of War.
One of the only songs that puts the pedal firmly to the floor is Free Me Now, which comes across a bit like Motorhead crossed with Queen. Yeah I know, weird eh!? My favourite tune is Helldriver. It reminds me of early period Scorpions with some really wild guitar.
This album is for completists only.
6.5/10 from The Grooveman.
