It takes conviction to create and unleash a good Heavy Metal album. However, beyond conviction there are also the right people that should be involved in the company of the old roots planted in their minds. Swedish Heavy Metal is not the latest news anymore; it proudly took its place as leader of traditional Metal just as NWOBHM did in the past. The local CULT OF THE FOX officially afflicted another strike in the name of classic Metal and to the benefit of their local scene that bless Heavy Metal with their debut album, "A Vow Of Vengeance", via Metalbound Records.

With IRON MAIDEN, JUDAS PRIEST and SAXON as their main gods to follow, this group attempted not only to recall the glory days but also provided some sense of epos and a line of melodies to back up their devotion. I don't think that this album deserves a "Heard it all before" as CULT OF THE FOX, as almost any band, has its own interpenetration of things. Nonetheless, the band's material didn't shed a new light and even delivered a few clichés that are a part of the genre's nourishments. The album presents type of main riffs that has been running for decades. Even so, more than several of those classic features are always welcome and pleasure to listen to when made with good taste.

Before reaching the tracklist, I have to admit that I enjoyed the production as it suited well for an 80s oriented release and it was very persuasive. The guitars mesmerized with a cutting edge sound that reminded me a bit of HAMMERFALL's early releases. I would have intensified the drums a bit instead of letting them sound shallow and without any depth.

Basically, the tracklist consists of pretty ordinary Heavy Metal songs with a focus on epic tales and Metal. The last two tracks were out of the album's character but there is no way that those were fillers. Actually, "Cult Of The Fox", is one of the album's top tunes. With a sort of a MANOWARish nature, CULT OF THE FOX presented a message for anyone that is against tradition or Metal itself. Call it a motivational track for the members and for the true Metal communion. "A Witch Shall Be Born" is my first choice for this release. It is flowing with an inspiring chorus and outstanding beats. Almost the same was "Spirit Of The Hunter" that showcased impressive harmonies and lead guitar displays. "The Power We Serve" is the speedy and rather aggressive of the bunch that took me to early WIZARD.

"A Vow Of Vengeance" has a good edge. Traditional Metal sounds good from the band's material but it all eventually depends if it clicks or not. Probably the next album will bear more surprises.