Review by JD on March 1, 2012.

I love it when a bonafide legend returns to the limelight and then delivers an album that blows peoples mind. I live for such a thing, as when it is dismissed, it rears up and smacks you right between the eyes and leaves you in a bloody pool. With that, I introduce one such legend who has returned the term Heavy Metal back and on track.

Dutch born metallists Sammy "Shmoulik" Avigal, of The Rods and Horizon fame is one of those people that metal should ever ever let go. With his new band Avigal, metal has arrived once again. Striking Classic Metal is what he delivers with great pride and aggression that metalheads old and new can enjoy, bringing the notion of old school back with a freshness and fire that most of the newer metallists can never capture.

Metallic pleasure can be obtained with any track that makes up this astounding album. As I listen to amazing songs such as the classic sounding 'Gates Of Hell' or the mid-tempo pounding of 'Mindless Creatures' - I am reminded of metal’s heyday, and yet have a feeling that Traditional Metal still is the music that the new millennium needs and craves. Avigal delivers all of this and more.

I love Classic Metal because it has fun while kicking the shit right out of you at the same time. It is cheesy, but that is what is fun. Thank you Mr. Sammy "Shmoulik" Avigal and company. You have made this old rocker feel refreshed and renewed. Horns up buddy and don’t wait too long to record once again.

Categorical Rating Breakdown

Musicianship: 9.5
Atmosphere: 9.5
Production: 9
Originality: 8
Overall: 9.5

Rating: 9.1 out of 10