Proto thrash/speed metal New Wave of British Heavy Metal band Satan is set to release their highly anticipated new release, Songs In Crimson, on September 13, 2024 via Metal Blade Records. Hailing from Newcastle, England, and forming in 1979, this classic band went through everything from name changes, a couple hiatuses and many lineup changes throughout their career. Partnering up with Metal Blade Records in 2018 was a perfect reset that the band needed. Releasing albums Cruel Magic in 2018 and their last release Earth Infernal in 2022 to critical acclaim, it’s great to have a new release so quick just cementing how relevant this band is.

The album begins with a super heavy guitar track ‘Frantic Zero’. This song has a fast proto thrashy sound that is synonymous with Satan. ‘Era (The Day Will Come)’ again punches a cool guitar intro. The mini riffs are fantastic and there is a cool base groove. A darker sound gives this track some soul. ‘Whore Of Babylon’ is a heavy track that gallops right from the start. I love the vocals on this song mixing with the cool guitar riffs creating a heavy bluesy sound. ‘Sacramental Rites’ has a cool drum intro starting off slower picking up speed as the heavy part cuts in. This is one of my personal favourites and you can really hear the bass. An old school NWOBHM groove is evident on this song and this is a showcase for the drums.

‘Martyrdom’ boasts killer guitar riff that sound reminiscent of early Anthrax. Another strong vocal performance on this fast track. ‘Turn The Tide’ has a wicked speed metal sound, fast and heavy. Another favourite of mine that I can see being a cool addition to a live set list being so heavy. The seventh song, ‘Captives’ keeps the heavy momentum going with the album at this point feeling like it’s gaining steam. This track has a traditional heavy sound that changes things up a bit showing how versatile this band is. ‘Curse In Disguise’ is another track that has a fast galloping guitar chug. The bass parts are fantastic and the vocals are spot on. This is another killer track that will become a fan favourite. ‘Truth Bullet’ has a sharp guitar intro that hits like a bullet, keeping in line with the more traditional theme of this album. Last track, ‘Deadly Crimson’, surmises the album in one song. The traditional guitar riffs finish the album off on a high showcasing how musically talented this band is.

It’s exciting to have a band that has had such a notable career to be releasing so much fantastic material in 2024. I can see Satan picking up new fans with this release while keeping their original fan base happy. This album covers so many sub genres that there is definitely something for everyone. I recommend picking this album up and taking it for a spin!