GRAVE DIGGER returns to the Middle - Ages, and the time of the Crusades; with a new release, "Symbol of Eternity!" This is their twentieth full-length album. With a debut album, that dates back to 1984, you know they know the road, and it is travelled well. The German power machine drives full speed through the epic battles of Saladin, the first sultan of both Egypt and Syria, as his armies slash swords with the mighty Crusaders of the age.

"The Siege of Akkon", is easily one of my album favorites. It opens the album with what sounds like a horn from "Helms Deep", from "Lord of the Rings". Then, "Battle Cry", roars forward with a powerful anthem like presence and laser - like axes grinding deep bass sounds, just like early BLACK SABBATH. Then they add in Chris Boltendahl's vocals. He sounds a little like Rob Halford on "Screaming for Vengeance", and you are off to the races. "King of the Kings", is another razor's edge lethal blitz of power metal. The grinding metal axes on this one sound like a good day in metal shop, with sheet metal grinding.

The title track, "Symbol of Eternity", has some great rhythms and powerful orchestration as the axes grind and the drums keep pace with grinding power. "Saladin", has some flute, acoustic guitar and middle eastern orchestration, at its opening, which definitely sets the perfect mood. Then the grinding machine takes over. "Grace of God", opens with intricate acoustic guitar, before orchestration and the pulse of steel returns. Overall, a great heavy metal album full of powerful guitar and drums.