RSS Feed


LUCIFER PRIEST
Unexpected Presence

Self-released (2024)
Rating: 7/10

After two singles new Brazilian act Lucifer Priest issues its debut full-length album that comes with some striking cover artwork. When I see strong art I always hope that the music within matches and in this instance it’s not bad.

The vocals of drummer John Naza may take a while to get used to as they are delivered as overwhelming shouts and barks, and the production is a bit thin which results in a lack of weight musically at times. Those quibbles aside Unexpected Presence is still a good heavy metal album with some excellent fret work, especially on ‘Death Is Coming Soon’.

This is high energy metal with a 80s vibe on occasions and the guys peak very early with the melodious glory of ‘Dancing Underfire’. The hook is immediate, the guitars are clean and the drums and bass drive hard. Would these guys benefit from a cleaner vocal tone? Probably, but it is what is, so even if you’re not a fan of the vocals then the music should suffice.

There is a lot of fizz about this outing and it sizzles with exuberance, but the theme is standard zippy metal. I have two favourite tracks, namely ‘Satan’s Command’ and ‘Take Me Now’, both of which boast an Iron Maiden-esque vibe. Also worth noting is the exceptional melody of album closer ‘Acid Trip’. This is good consistent metal to be played by candle flame.

Neil Arnold

<< Back to Album & EP Reviews



Related Posts via Categories
Share