Album review: RAVEN – Screaming Murder Death From Above – Live In Aalborg

SPV/Steamhammer [Release date 18.01.19]

Most often associated with the New Wave Of British Heavy Metal, Raven formed in the mid 70′s and had some notoriety in the early 80′s. Playing their brand of Athletic Rock, they were a big influence on the speed and thrash scenes. Some hits, a hit or two, and even going melodic along the way, and a hiatus or two too.

And athletic this trio certainly are. Their 2015 album ExtermiNation would have caused concrete to ripple. They’re still going strong, as this live album shows. With drummer Mike Heller replacing long time Joe Hasselvander (for health reasons), the band are fronted by bassist/vocalist John Gallagher and brother and guitarist Mark. And steaming along this album certainly is.

The sound is a little rough and ready, one foot firmly in their NWoBHM roots, but equally solid, blistering, heavy, and breathtaking.

From the outset the hellbound rhythms and screaming vocals over blistering guitar, there’s some great riffs. The band work the crowd well, and the classic All For One is a real foot stomper. Even more classic is the more anthemic Rock Until You Drop, the title track of an album any metal fan should own.

It’s a good set, some old and new mixed, and a fast and furious performance. High octane on every level. Crash Bang Wallap? The closing number sums them perfectly. ****1/2

Review by Joe Geesin

Featured Artist: JOSH TAERK

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In 2023 he signed a recording deal with Sony in Canada and released a new single on 15 September.

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Power Plays w/c 28 October 2024

IZZY REIGN Spooky Scary Skeletons (FiXT)
THE RASMUS Rest In Pieces (Better Noise Music)
THE PLAGUE What Else Can I Do (FiXT)
STAR CIRCUS Turn The Tide (indie)
DEFENCES Breathe It In (Long Branch Records)

Featured Albums w/c 28 October 2024

09:00-12:00 The Best of 2003-2023 (Melodic Rock)
12:00-13:00 The Best of 2003-2023 (Melodic Hard Rock)
14:00-16:00 The Best of 2003-2023 (Singer Songwriter)