I remember this US band solely due to the "Armed To The Teeth" 1984 EP circulating in some collectors' lists, which is very funny since we're not talking about a scarce pressing. Anyway, Shadow kingdom Records decided to release a DCD album featuring the Utah-based trio's aforementioned EP combined with 1986's "Kick It Out" full length follow-up (1986). In addition, this product also includes a whole bonus disc with never-before-released or available only demo-included songs. Briefly concluding, also looking at the glossy rich CD booklet, this fine label has again delivered a value-for-money release.

I wish the music inside was as charming, though. CRISIS back then performed a primitive kind of Metal music with strong (Hard) Rock roots that shall probably say something to a few traditional metallers. All instruments are raw - voice included - and the overall result should sound over-retro to younger Metal fans. The differences between the EP and the full length are not strong enough, while the demo disc presents an even more unpolished sound which is by no way a disadvantage but - when the music is not even promising - cannot save the day. The guitar work in some parts is worth noticing, anyway.

The style of CRISIS could resemble a little to the likes of THE RODS, RAVEN or early TWISTED SISTER - musically speaking - while Metal hunters of the past can also think of enough bands who cut their teeth in the early 80s Metal scene in America. And, yes, enough of British Hard Rock/Metal is a said influence for CRISIS, too (just listen to the demo takes).

Eras have changed so much that albums like "Armed To The Teeth" and "Kick It Out" cannot even stand the test of time. If you're looking for virtually everything released in the primitive US Metal era (1978 - 1982) then CRISIS may sound hopeful. Else, I'm pretty sure there's countless more ass kicking bands belonging to that period that really deserve your attention.