Debate time: DEF LEPPARDS's best album was "On Through the Night" (I mean, "Wasted," right?); IRON MAIDEN's was "Killers"; one of the best overlooked albums of 1983 was BITCH "Be My Slave." If you agree with any of those statements, you'll probably be thrilled to hear that BUZZARD's 1984 classic "Gambler" was re-issued on February 24, 2023 via Relics From The Crypt (a sub-label of the might Dying Victims Records). And if you have never heard of this short-lived Belgium Metal foursome, you're in for a treat!

The band had a two-record deal with Antler Records. If the typical vexations of lineup changes, diverging interests, and relationship distractions weren't enough, the band was struck with the tragedy of a motorcycle accident that landed Steve in a coma for over a week and then three months of rehab. The band called it quits two years after the release of their debut album, "Gambler." If not for Relics From The Crypt, this incredible album might have been lost.

"Gambler" features ten tracks. Most are in the three- to four-minute range with only one track venturing past the five minute mark. The album has a distinct analog sound-for obvious reasons. It sounds like it was recorded in the 1980's because it was recorded in the 1980's. Despite this, or maybe because of it, the production values are actually very strong. There's clean separation and crisp delivery. The impressive range of Hanzie's vocals are faithfully rendered as are the depths of his bass playing (just give "Midnight Countess" a listen!). The dualling axes are also clearly distinguished from one another and come across with surprising clarity. The only fault is the damp recording of the drums.

The theme of the tracks range from Hard Rock declarations-"Stone-Hard and Loud" and "We Are Heavy Rockers"-to the darkly enticing "Nosferatu" and "Midnight Countess." In between there are the requisite love songs like "You and Me" and "Can't You See." Sprinkle in some portraits of outlier personas such as "A Strange Gang" and "Gambler" and you pretty much have the stock template of a 1980's Hard Rock album. This isn't a slight-in fact, it lends authenticity and charm to the album. What we might call a template today was innovation back then.

Sadly, there will be no reunion. Elly (Stephan Logie) passed away in 2018 and the remaining members, out of respect to their fallen bandmate, have ruled against it. "Gambler" not only stands as a testimony to what these four lads achieved but also reminds us of what Metal is all about. Four guys jamming their hearts out to the fiery beat of Satan's hooves! Hails and horns then to BUZZARD. Now go and get you some.