After having released their debut album "Killerwitch" in 2020 (which in reality is the year that the band was founded), the Maltese Battle Metallers KILLERWITCH are back with their second studio album "Palace Of The Dragon". It was let loose on 29 September 2025, so it is about time that we at METAL TEMPLE take notice and give this album a review. I mention that the band plays Battle Metal, but its foundation is Old School Heavy Metal, in music as well as lyrics and production. And yes, that gives the NWOTHM movement another piece to add to their already massive puzzle.

Musically KILLERWITCH does go back to the eighties in feel, atmosphere as well as sounds, giving "Palace Of The Dragon" a bit of an underground vibe. Especially the guitars are sometimes just a little too far back in the mix. Nevertheless there is no escaping the fact that what is being brought to us as listeners is rather nice, has a good groove, is filled with the right riffs and notes, in order to make you take notice. And although what KILLERWITCH bring us is Battle Metal, you don't get to feel the urge to stand up, grab you toy sword and start waving at your imaginary enemies. Instead you get are more inclined to close your eyes, listen to the lyrics and design your own movie that would go with the lines that are being sung on "Palace Of The Dragon".

As for influences, I can think of many, nut I feel that none of them are strong enough to be mentioned here. What I feel is much more important is that KILLERWITCH is able to use all they have learned over the years and mould them into good Metal songs that make sense, that have your interest piqued, and that will make you tap your feet and nod in agreement with the songs. "Palace Of The Dragon" is not a record that climbs to the highest step of the ladder, but neither is it one where you stay on the floor. Nope, this will take you into the nice, decent and very solid area of an area where you feel fine, where iot if okay when you dare to admit that you enjoy the music that KILLERWITCH makes. And that is what matters most, that you take enjoyment out of the music you are listening to. "Palace Of The Dragon" does that in spades.