Sceptor has been around since 2009 and released a single and one full-length album before calling it a day in 2014. Torsten Lang and Bob Mitchell are the only members in the current line-up who were in the band in 2009, and according to the metal archives, there had been a number of line-up changes prior to 2014.
The band kicked back into gear in 2019 and are about to release another full-length album on September 24 2021, “Rise to the Light” via Pure Steel Records.
The opening track is an instrumental, “Past Reflections”, it’s soft and melodic, but don’t be lulled into thinking that the album follows the same formula. “Crown of Nails” is an energetic track that is bound to get your blood pumping. Bob Mitchell’s vocals give you a sense that he really believes what he is saying and the music is full of urgency. It’s good solid heavy metal.
At times I hear the Attacker influences in Mitchell’s vocals which are very power metal, but there’s also some grittier vocals that remind me of Accept, in particular Mark Tornillo. One of the tracks that are distinctive in the Accept style is the 5th track “Dissension”, not only from the vocal performance but also in the polished guitar work.
The songs are all in the vein of heavy/power metal, with catchy riffs, driving tempos and diverse vocals. I personally prefer the more gravelly vocal style alongside the music, it gives a bit more depth to the overall sound than the cleaner vocals and provides a sense that Mitchell is really feeling it.
As a whole, the album is captivating, with just enough variation in each track from slower, melodic moments to hearty metal riffs and beats, topped with classy solos, to hold the listener’s interest.
The standout track for me is “Beyond the Unknown” – it’s a banger! Special mention is needed for the Bonus Tracks “Powerhouse” and “Shadows in the Maze”, the tracks are indeed a bonus and a fitting way to end the album.
For fans of all heavy and power metal, in particular, Attacker & Accept.
Sceptor: Facebook
Release Year: 2021
Label: Pure Steel Records
Category: Album
Country: US/German
Reviewed by ForsakenMisery
