Udo Dirkschneider is an icon of German heavy metal, with his distinctive vocal style, (and as the former voice of Accept), he continues to fly the flag for heavy metal with his band UDO and they are set to release the latest album ”Game Over” on October 22, 2021. The album has 16 tracks and was written over the course of 2020 in the height of the COVID 19 pandemic.
The line-up includes Udo’s son Sven Dirkschneider on drums, bassist Tilen Hudrap, and guitarists Andrey Smirnov and Dee Dammers.
The album kicks off with “Fear Detector”, and instantly you are hit with a lively riff, soaring guitars, and the unmistakable voice of Udo. It’s a great start with exceptional work from the guitarists, polished drum fills, and rhythms that tie the song together wonderfully.
“Holy Invaders” is a slightly more subdued track, but don’t be fooled, it’s still heavy metal as it gets. I would have preferred a few fewer pinch harmonics, but in saying that, it is only my personal preference that they are used more sparingly.
“Prophecy” is the 3rd track, it has a gallop to it that instantly gets your head moving, and again the band shows off their magnificent talent, the solo sections elevating the triumphant nature of the track.
As the album progresses, there are more of the same ingredients, but not one song is the same as the next.
“Empty Eyes” has an alluring Middle Eastern-sounding melody, it’s definitely a standout. It is memorable and a track I returned to multiple times.
Every song has such compelling energy, choruses that seize you in a way you can’t control, reinforced by Udo’s vocals, and then just when you think it can’t get any better, you get fully smacked in the face with searing solos that stop you in your tracks.
“Like a Beast” has the coolest intro, a menacing voice on the phone growls “I’m right behind you” – this song has everything! Udo’s vocals are outstanding!
“Don’t Wanna say Goodbye” is a bonus track, a hauntingly heartfelt ballad. It strikes a sentimental chord and mesmerizes in its tenderness.
This album sits firmly on the list of my top 10 albums this year. A must-have for any fan of UDO, Accept, and old-school heavy metal.
U.D.O.: Facebook
Release Year: 2021
Label: AFM – Records
Category: Album
Country: Germany
Reviewed by ForsakenMisery
