I'm beginning to think that NWOBHM is less of an era than it is a subgenre. I mean, I was alive and well during that time period (late 70's, early 80's) and it just seemed like any other 'day in the life,' though I have to admit it was a great day indeed. All that is to say, we had no idea that the style of metal we were listening to would someday become a subset of a much larger thing. At the time it felt like the whole thing. So, I'm always a little surprised to see another new band embracing the NWOBHM style of metal. Pleasantly surprised, I should say.

With that, allow me to introduce ZEPTER. ZEPTER is an Austrian heavy metal band. They formed in 2024 and released an EP, Inferno, the same year. Two short years later they released their self-titled debut, Zepter, on February 20, 2026 via High Roller Records. Zepter comprises eight tracks for a runtime of 34 minutes. They feature clean vocals, a twin guitar assault, and a galloping rhythm section.

The songwriting of this debut album seems a bit 'in process,' which is to be expected. The themes center on characters you might find in a horror fan 'zine—slashers, slayers, exterminators, dark angels, screaming wraiths, and oppressive lords. The remaining two tracks are kind of calls to action—"Everlasting" encourages listeners to soar to their destinies to "fulfill your prophecy" and "Hit the Streets" to get out on the highway and "let yourself free on the iron horse." So, all in all, thematically the album feels like a mix of IRON MAIDEN's Killers and JUDAS PRIEST's Killing Machine (or Hellbent for Leather, depending on where you live). Not bad company to be in.

Execution-wise, the band is solid. The twin guitars create great harmonies and Tobias and Alex never let the pace up. Lukas doesn't go after soaring soprano vocals, opting instead for an even-keeled approach. The production feels very 80's, which is a good thing if analog is the vibe they were after; not so great if they were trying to capture a more modern sound.

Standout tracks are "The Lords," the closing track, which balks expectations for some kind of soft landing. The album ends as vigorously as it starts. I also quite liked "Everlasting" as well as the cover of "Lonely Night" from the short-lived Swedish heavy metal band, SCREEM. You know you're old school when your choice of a cover comes from a 1986 demo.

Okay, so NWOBHM didn't end in the mid-80's. And it isn't limited to Britain. NWOBHM is still kicking and screaming all over the world and using the same old analog amps. Not complaining, though, I do love that warm sound. Very suitable for vinyl or cassette. ZEPTER can be found on the High Roller Records website or via Bandcamp. I just checked iTunes and they're there too . . . which means they're everywhere. Find them and wave that heavy metal banner with pride.