A clear trace of many Metal Schools in South America is the link to the past genres, or in other words, to Old School Metal. Once more: it’s not a sin to play Metal as it was done back in the 70s, 80s or others, but all those on Old School genres must understand that you must impress on your music some personality. And the Peruvian quintet HYENA commits some sings on “About Rock in Roll”, but’s not a waste of time. After 7 years of existence, it’s their first full-length - besides they had many Demos, Live releases, splits, compilations and others - and it depicts their blood pact with classic Heavy Metal from the first half of the 80s, with clear influences from JUDAS PRIEST, IRON MAIDEN and NWOBHM in general, MOTÖRHEAD (clearly heard on “Hail the Fire” rhythms), MERCYFUL FATE (some vocals sounds in a way that gives the idea that the Danish legends influences them) and even some traits from Old School Speed/Power Metal is heard.

The problem: it seems that their convictions hold their musical work back sometimes, in the sense that they could expand their ideas into something personal, but’s still too near of the band’s influences. It’s good, but it could be way better. The other problem lies in the album’s sonority, because it seems that it tries to emulate the crude and organic ways of the past. It was a mistake, because things sound a bit ‘hollow’ and cliché. They could have a better result using a modern outfit, but keeping the organic and simple tunes (something that ENFORCER does), then, the band must look for a producer to guide things in this way next time. It’s not a total waste, but their music demands more in this aspect.

“Nightriders”, “About Rock and Roll”, “The Eternal Zero”, “Hail the Fire”, “Epitome of Evil”, “Echoes of the Underworld”, “Ready to Explode”, “Metal Machine”, “Hyena” and “Keep It True” are very good songs and reflects what the band wants to play, but they need to evolve and show something more personalized, something that belongs to them. And El Sucio can work out without too many thin screams (he has a very good voice, but the extreme screams can disturb afans sometimes due the abuse on the useage). Technically, the band is very good.

At least, HYENA comes and has value, and “About Rock and Roll” is a good release. But again: evolve a bit more, and find a good producer experienced in such a musical trench to guide you in the studio next time.