During the 80's you could count the number of prominent Swiss metal bands on one hand, but that didn't mean there weren't a plethora of bands trying to fight for their shot at international stardom like CELTIC FROST and CORONER had already achieved. SULTAN were one those hardworking bands whose origins date back to 1986. Instead of simply recording a demo, SULTAN tried to differentiate themselves from the pack by self-releasing a vinyl single entitled "Rebel Fire."

Despite the single's initial success, four years would pass as SULTAN were plagued by frequent line-up changes but were finally able to release their magnificent debut,Check & Mate, in 1990. SULTAN successfully fused both the past and present onCheck & Mateby channeling NWOBHM influences, while harnessing the escalating momentum of the newly established European power metal scene. Sadly, after one final tour in 1991 the band would call it quits leavingCheck & Mateas their one and only album, but what an amazing album it was!

DIVE057
SULTAN - Check & Mate (Deluxe Edition)
Out Now!!!

FOR FANS OF:
LEATHERWOLF, RIOT, FIFTH ANGEL & OMEN

POINTS OF INTEREST:
+ 2 bonus tracks from first 45rpm single (1986)
+ Archival band photos (8 page booklet)
+ Brand new interview with drummer/founding member ' Fabian Ranzoni
+ Out of print nearly 20 years
+ Limited edition
+ New mastering by Jamie King
+ Layout/Restoration by Adam Peterson (WATCHTOWER, EPIDEMIC and SOLSTICE)

TRACK LIST:
1. Falcon2. Pictures Of Heidi3. For The Light4. Whizzing5. Mary6. Darkness7. Night Knights8. Hard Nights, Heavy Pleasure9. Jingle10. Shout In The Fight

BONUS TRACKS:
Rebel Fire 7" Single11. Rebel Clever12. Power Of Fire