Review by Luka on April 28, 2002.

Just when I’d resolved that almost every metal band in the world by now had taken off to explore new realms of experimentation and endless ingenuity comes this juggernaugth of the pure oldschool traditional style to say otherwise. Borrowing the popular sound of Halford and 90’s Judas Priest (and out-doing them both), Germany’s Primal Fear demonstrate a solid unwavering vision and mean execution of what true metal should be: a fast, pulse-shredding carnage of wailing solos and brilliant musicianship!! Turn it up and rock!

The energy and groove roaring from the speakers of "Black Sun" is monstrous! When a driving beat from 'Fear' or 'Mind Machine' starts up it will take chains to keep you still. Primal Fear keep the idea simple, forming sharp and shredding riffs and screaming solos over a framework of deep bass and very catchy groove: creating an air guitar and drummer’s paradise! Henny Wolter’s guitar dominates the album but it’s not overdone, they know their instruments. Primal Fear forge the finest metal and make it look easy.

Now I know Germany is famous for it’s large number of cheese exports and for those just skimming over the review I want to make this clear: Primal Fear are NOT POWER METAL. This is "Painkiller"-era Priest with a more bad-ass singer and tougher attitude. 'Silence' and the mellower songs show the band’s softer side long enough to let you relax before the fast, thrashout tunes like 'We Go Down' rip your face off. After the fifth song the speed and sheer intensity of the album catapult you into metal heaven and the hellride ain't over ‘till the very end. Open a beer and fucking party! This rules!

Bottom Line: This album makes you stand and cheer for the glory of heavy metal. Fantastic!

Originality: 4
Musicianship: 9.5
Atmosphere: 10
Production: 9
Overall: 9

Rating: 8.3 out of 10