SCAVENGER is a Belgian band that was first formed in 1985. The result became common knowledge quite soon after that, as the release of their debut album “Battlefields” will testify. Unfortunately for the band, it was released by Mausoleum Records, who were forced to quit all activities very shortly after that. It also meant the end of the road for SCAVENGER. But then came 2018, and with a fresh line-up the band was resurrected. It resulted in a 7” single (“Backslide”) in 2020. This is now followed by a full album. Which on CD actually incorporated the single. “Beyond The Bells” was released on the 22nd of March, 2024 by the Greek label No Remorse Records. It is filled with Old School Heavy Metal, or if you will, NWOTHM.

As I hadn’t heard anything of SCAVENGER before, I started listening with a mind as open as my grains will allow. The first thing that hit me is the voice of Tine Lucifera. This lady has a very distinctive, nasal kind of voice, one that you would expect on a witch in a children’s movie. I felt it was an acquired taste, and didn’t know if this was my cup of tea at all. But I have to admit that it did take me a number of listening sessions before I recognised that it actually does fit quite well with the available Old School Heavy Metal on “Beyond The Bells”. So, with that obstacle cleared and accepted, it is time to address the music.

Let’s not beat around the bush; this is very pleasant Heavy Metal in its purest form. Strong, powerful and with a wide variety of diverse songs. But, on the other hand, all the music put together makes “Beyond The Bells” into a very good album. And before you ask, no, you will not hear anything that is contemporary. Neither will you run into something innovative or inventive. What you will get is very good Old School Heavy Metal that will remind you of SAXON and a host of pure NWOBHM bands. SCAVENGER isn’t a band with egos on display. On the contrary, the band members seem to be very much in sync with each other, adding to the coherence of “Beyond The Bells”. As for the production, it is quite reminiscent of the eighties, but brought into the 21st century in a very appropriate way. I’ll just say it again; “Beyond The Bells” is a good old fashioned Heavy Metal record that needs to be heard. Preferably but a large audience.