METAL CHURCH

Metal Church has had various lineups over the years. Just when Kurdt Vanderhoof thought the band might be over, they’ve roared back with a new lineup and album entitled Dead To Rights. This new lineup has a couple of familiar faces making up the rhythm section in bassist David Ellefson (ex-Megadeth) and drummer Ken Mary (Fifth Angel, Flotsam And Jetsam, ex-Accept, ex-Alice Cooper, ex-Chastain). Rounding out the new members is vocalist Brian Allen, most notably of Vicious Rumors. They join original and long-time members on guitars, Kurdt Vanderhoof and Rick Van Zandt.

This very talented group of musicians has created an excellent, high-quality metal album. It is filled with great grooves and riffs, while the vocals are executed to a high level. Ken Mary turns in a spectacular effort on the drums. His double bass drum work really drives the songs while not being over-the-top. What a great drum performance.

The title track on ‘Dead To Rights’ is mid-to-up-tempo with a memorable riff, really good lead guitar, and the aforementioned drums and vocals. Other standout tracks are the grooved ‘Deep Cover Shakedown,’ ‘Wasted Time,’ and the multi-tempo ‘My Wrath’ that just remind you of Metal Church‘s first two albums. Brian Allen’s vocals might at times remind one of the great David Wayne, without being an intentional sound-alike. All in all, Dead To Rights is an excellent, professionally executed heavy metal album. It has a classic Metal Church feel while being presented with a modern sound. I’m glad Metal Church has carried on, and I think you will be too. Well done.