Today sees the release of ‘Hail The Empire’, the second album from Satan’s Empire and it’s a gem of a historic NWOBHM style that marks triumph over adversity.
Recently the band held auditions in an attempt to find a replacement for vocalist Derek Lyon, who had to stand aside due to serious health issues.
Drummer Garry Bowler tells us: “Derek has recently undergone major surgery to attempt to resolve the issue affecting his health. The surgery was a success and, although still recuperating and managing his new found quality of life, he recently tested his vocal ability during a band rehearsal. He now feels inspired and confident enough to return to his position within the band.”
On the ‘Hail The Empire’ Lyon’s vocals add a unique tone, so this is great news for the five piece and while the album launch party is naturally postponed, their project of bringing their brand of Metal to the masses is otherwise in full flow.
Recorded to a budget, this does not distract from the overall feel of ‘Hail The Empire’ as leans towards an almost live feel.
Opening track ‘Warriors’ opens with a classic NWOBHM structure and sets the tone for the album – loud, filled with cranking riffs and seeping with Metal nostalgia.
Wayne Hudson’s bass and Garry Bowler’s drums stomp over the beginning of ‘All Hallows Eve’ before the twin guitars of Paul Lewis and Sandy McRitchie ride over straightforward complementary riffs to great effect.
‘Storm on The Airwaves’ is another stand out track, moving from slow and menacing through to its up-tempo finish, with great crowd singalong ‘Whoh’s’ and Lyon reminiscing that he “can remember the days when Metal ruled the waves”.
This is a good album of ten proper old school Heavy Metal songs and it deserves to be played loud.
It’s fantastic news that Derek is on the road to recovery and given his performance on this album, its great news that the five remain together to light up the stage another day.
Hail The Empire!!
