From some years ago, the new trend is to release vinyl discs. In the beginning, it was a try to stop the internet piracy, but now it means to be an ‘Old School’ need for some to see their music released in such format. It’s obvious that debates about digital versus CD versus vinyl happens every day on internet forums and groups, and everyone can choose how to hear music. And the Swedish quintet ARMORY here presents “Black Star”, their new release, on digital and vinyl format. To define the band’s music is easy: it’s an Old School Speed Metal form of music, based on fast playing with melodic care. In other words, it’s that early mix between fast tempos usual for German Metal School with the melodic appeal of NWOBHM, and obviously with some aggressiveness.

It’s not a sin to say that the quintet works on the same trench of acts as ENFORCER and AGENT STEEL (where the influences of JUDAS PRIEST are clear), but having their own way to do things. The production worked on a way to try to give the band an Old School Heavy Metal sonority, or better saying, trying to be as organic and simple as they could sound (like it was a rehearsal). It’s clear that such ways have their obstacles, but the final result isn’t better at all (besides it could be better). This EP has two good songs: “Black Star” (a heavy and intense song with very good guitar riffs and arrangements, and what great energy and melodies), and “Solar Winds” (a faster and crushing song filled with intense melodies and sharp aggressiveness, with bass guitar and drums playing heavy, and the vocals using very good set of tunes). Both show potential, but the quintet needs to mature its music a bit more.

For now, ARMORY really did a very good work on “Black Star”, but with such talent, they can do better.