Iron Knights - New Sound Of War

There is development in the arrangements; fresh blood has led these Iron Knights to follow the path more in line with Manowar rather than relying purely on Iron Maiden riffs and arrangements, even though this was something I really enjoyed on their earlier releases under the old moniker if I am honest. They are still present, don’t worry (check out ‘The Path’ and its wicked guitar solo), they are just not as overall prominent as in the past. Seasoned live favourite ‘Desert Fox’ is finally laid onto disc and new track and opener ‘Jericho’ bleeds passion and excitement. The album is not without its oddballs, especially ‘Tell Me Strange Things’ which might pose a difference of opinion to fans of older material, but this does to their credit show a band in development or rather in transition. This album to me signifies a change of battle plan, a marginal change of direction whilst still very much flying under the banner of traditional heavy metal music. Songs like ‘First Legion’ pay respect and homage to their fans in the best form of gratitude with an enjoyable sing along anthem made for the stage and is as metal as it gets. 

Whilst I love the songs, I am a little disappointed with the final drum mix/sound, it’s a bit thin; however, I do re-iterate that the music is of substance so I certainly would not write them off based on the mix you hear on the disc. The ‘New Sound of War’ is a fresh start for a creative band heading up the UK legion of traditional heavy metal music. The Iron Knights will no doubt gain further followers with this recording and it is bound to keep their current legion satisfied. ‘The New Sound of War’ is an aptly titled release and it is a valiant effort, the battle plan has by no means been interrupted and I am sure that further missions will develop their art and craft even further.