SKULL & CROSSBONES

German metal band Skull & Crossbones is set to release their second album, Time, on November 14th, 2025, via Massacre Records. A great follow-up to their debut, Sungazer, in 2023. This album leans more towards the power metal genre, but it also incorporates definite traditional and progressive metal elements, making this release expansive.

The album begins with ‘Echoes Of Eternity’, a fast, perfect mix of traditional and power metal that reminds me of Helloween. Tobias Hübners vocals shine on this track. ‘Labyrinth Of Time’ has a melodic, prog vibe, and the bassline is fantastic. ‘Time Thief’ is another fast-paced track that features a great flow, blending subtle and heavier elements. This would be a killer addition to a live set. I can hear the crowd singing along. ‘The Illusionist’ begins with a superb vocal intro that rips into heavy guitars, bass, and drums. This is one of my personal favourites and this could have been off any early Queensrÿche album. I love the chug with this song and the drums are like a punching assault.

‘The Price’ continues with the heavy sound, and the focus is on the aggressive guitars. The solos are fast and heavy, really lending themselves to a more traditional sound. A dramatic track is how I would best describe this song. ‘Thunderstorm’ showcases the band’s talent, with soaring vocals and musicianship coming together to create an intense sound—another personal favourite of mine. ‘Passing Hours’ has a big power metal vibe, starting slow and then blasting off, making it extremely catchy. A softer song that still packs a bite. ‘Eye Of Wisdom’ sets up a machine gun-like chug, creating a thicker sound. This song is one of the heavier tracks, mixing perfectly with the vocals.

‘Nocturnal Dreams’ changes direction again with more of a nod to the 1980s. This is a cool song, featuring a lighter, traditional sound with a touch of progressive elements. Last track ‘The Ocean’s Call’ has a cool seafaring pirate vibe, pushing a classic power metal sound. This is a great way to end the album with a fun, galloping beat that would definitely bring any audience together in unison. Vocalist Tobias Hübner actually provides the keyboard arrangement for this track, as well as on ‘Thunderstorm’.

What I like about this album is that it doesn’t fall into a repetitive formula and is so genre-inclusive. It’s well thought out, from the vocals and musicianship to the writing and flawless production, as well as the pertinent album art created by Michael Vetter.