Steel Attack’s 3rd release “Predator Of The Empire” finds the band on a new label (Arise Records) and with a new singer Dick, who sounds like a cross between Ronnie James Dio and Niklas Isfeldt from Dream Evil. The lead title cut gallops of into Running Wild territory and finds Steel Attack sounding much better than on their previous releases. I think the change of vocalists is a definite step forward for the band.
“Cursed Land” would have sounded right at home on the latest Angel Dust CD minus the over processed slickness that occupied “Of Human Bondage”. “Point Of No Return” and “Heavy Metal God” slow the pace a bit and allow for Dick’s voice to shine even more and allows Steel Attack to show they can compose diverse songs without relying on speed at all times even though it is a strength. Themes of warriors, blood and honor are prevalent throughout the CD. “Arise” has the kind of guitar riffs that recall Riot’s heyday. The twin attack of John and Dennis on guitars is complimented by an upfront and tight rhythm section of Patrick on bass and Mike on drums. The relentless drums on “Nightmare” once again bring to mind Running Wild and Dick’s higher registered vocal passages scream of Dio.
Steel Attack’s willingness to diversify via tempo changes throughout the CD was a most welcome break from bands who tend to go for the same drum beat and speed on each song. “Predator Of The Empire” is one of the best power metal releases thus far in 2003.