Various Artists – Scrap Metal Vol. 2
Various Artists – Scrap Metal Vol. 2
RidingEasy Records
Release date: 10/02/2023
Running time: 41:00
Review by: Alun Jones
8.5/10
All hail the return of the forgotten kings! Yes, it’s another instalment of long lost and forgotten classics with the second “Scrap Metal” collection from RidingEasy Records! Much like their Brown Acid series, which compiles obscure late 60’s/early 70’s psych hard rock, here we’re delving into the murky depths of early 80’s metal. This is the realm of studded belts, band patch covered denim jackets and of course, mullets: prepare to ROCK!
We begin with ‘Running for the Line’ by JJ’s Powerhouse – a lightning-fast ripper that reminded me of Judas Priest playing a cover of Budgie’s ‘Breadfan’. It’s a great, energetic start to the proceedings. Next is Storm Queen, with another fast-paced attack in ‘Raising the Roof’. Furious fun from this Welsh power house.
‘It’s a Crime’ declare Jameson Raid, and it is indeed a crime that these Brummie bruisers didn’t achieve more in rock ‘n’ roll. A.R.C. have a punk ‘n’ roll edge that makes their song ‘Homemade Wine’ something to savour, it’s the rawest track here so far. Metropolis hail from San Jose, and their track ‘The Raven’ has a dark, mid-eighties thrash sound and killer intro riff.
Staying with the USA, Prowler from San Diego offer up ‘Temporary Insanity’ – more mid-eighties thrash infused metal that recalls early Anthrax. Following that, Christian Steel deliver ‘Need Your Love’ – a fairly cliched but still fun banger. If these guys are Christians, I’ll bet their church group won’t be impressed with what they’d like to do to a lady (outside of matrimony too, I suspect). ‘Sidewinder’ is one of the best tracks gathered here, a punchy rocker from Black Rose.
‘Star Trippin’ is by Dark Age. Dark Age are apparently a band of youngsters: the guitarist was just 12, and his brother on vocals two years younger when this song was written. It’s fun, but very strange listening to the helium high-pitched voices. It’s like Alvin & The Chipmunks playing Crue covers. Finally, we have Sorcery with their mystical Zep-a-thon ‘Whales’. Crazy title for a crazy tune. There’s a mellow hippyish intro, which is obliterated by the crushing mega riff which powers the song along. Over the top magnificence.
From NWOBHM inspired tracks, to proto thrash and full-on goofball metal ragers, Scrap Metal Vol. 2 has plenty of variety. Maybe not so much depth, but it’s not for want of trying with some of these bands. At the end of the day, all of these songs are fun and it’s great to know they’ve been rescued from oblivion. Now, raise those horns and roar!
TRACKLISTING:
01. JJ’s Powerhouse – Running for the Line
02. Storm Queen – Raising the Roof
03. Jameson Raid – It’s a Crime
04. A.R.C. – Homemade Wine
05. Metropolis – The Raven
06. Prowler – Temporary Insanity
07. Christian Steel – Need Your Love
08. Black Rose – Sidewinder
09. Dark Age – Star Trippin’
10. Sorcery – Whales
LINKS
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