Review by Felix on December 12, 2021.

Armoured Angel dudes have posthumously become a legend, at least in my private metal cosmos. Their, well, riffs of steel and their dense guitar carpet that build the basis for all of their songs pour out the spirit of violence in every second. In addition, their often chosen mid-tempo approach creates an iron sound which seems to be the acoustic equivalent of the sight of molten steel. These outsiders doubtlessly spread the message of pure heavy metal in an impressive manner. Please understand the words "heavy metal" as a generic term in this context. It is not meant as a genre description, because Armoured Angel play extremely sinister thrash. But their aura is exactly the aura that should be generated by an uncompromising metal band - and that's the reason why I was speaking of outsiders. True heavy metal does not originate from the centre of society.

It is a pity that Armoured Angel's discography is filled to the brim with EPs, while full-lengths remain a very rare commodity. However, the Australians make the best of the situation. Their compact formats are free from any kind of fillers. On the other hand, we must not renounce exciting highlights. The riffing of 'Enigmatize' combines catchiness and merciless intransigence excellently. It's by no means that kind of catchiness that has its eye on the mainstream audience. I am speaking of this strict, relentless and clear structure that also made songs such as 'Fallen Angel' (Possessed), 'Ordered To Kill' (At War) or 'Hell Awaits' (Ratt - haha, little joke) to earworms. And all these bands - with the exception of Ratt - are not too far away from the general approach of Armoured Angel, at least regarding the level of uncompromising power. Nonetheless, it remains a fact that this trio from down under has found a very individual style without integrating highly original or external elements. The terrific overall impression is created with the usual tools, but the band uses them in a very intelligent manner. By the way, I don't want to hide the fact that Mysterium also holds songs with comparatively fast eruptions, namely 'Heir To Evil' and 'Carved In Sin'. Anyway, it cannot be denied that the slower sections characterize this EP and the work of Armoured Angel in general.

Due to the powerful and almost impenetrable production, the music develops its full aroma. The riffs cut through the sound like a hot knife through butter and even a seemingly mild piece - the outro - offers some screaming guitars in addition to its casual flow. It is a little bit sad that the final number is an instrumental, because the deep, demonic and imperious vocals mark another strong feature of Armoured Angel's art. Some dudes will surely blame the lead vocals for being monotonous, but I guess the dick of these grumblers is simply too short (please recognise my high sophisticated way of argumentation). In other words: the lead singer does an outstanding job, because this type of music needs this commanding kind of singing. Metal was not invented to make many compromises. The here presented style of singing matches the musical way of proceeding and therefore everything is fine. The ironclad EP gives you the feeling of being placed between the hammer and the anvil and the guy who holds the hammer in his hand has never heard of things such as mildness, loss of power or humanity. However, this vinyl is meant for all those thrash metal freaks who choose heaviness instead of velocity and strictness instead of variety from time to time. The riffs of steel will definitely not disappoint them. If you have any doubts, buy the great re-release (grey vinyl, band photo on the B side) of Mysterium.

Rating: 8.9 out of 10