Angeles Del Infierno
Pacto Con El Diablo

The Angeles del Infierno, a Spanish band from San Sebastian, debuts on the Iberian music scene with this compelling album. "Pacto con El Diablo" was released by Warner Music in October 1984. The group's impact among Spanish metalheads was excellent and they were well-received by critics. We can say that in the '80s they, along with Baron Rojo, were the major exponents of Heavy Metal sung in Castilian. In fact, Angeles was born four years earlier (in 1980) and this full-length album was preceded by three singles, which were incorporated into this album.

Now, moving on to the album, well, there's little to say except that we have classic heavy metal in pure '80s style with Maiden and Priest influences. The technique is good, and the singer Juan Gallardo delivers a performance of high level with his remarkable high notes and vocal power. It kicks off strong with "Maldito sea tu nombre", one of the best tracks on the album, where the British metal school the band is inspired by is evident. It goes on with "Rocker" and "Unidos por el Rock", enjoyable tracks that then give way to the engaging "Esclavos de la Noche" and "Sombras en la Oscuridad", which complete the first part of the album (side A of the vinyl, editor’s note). Up to this point, we can reflect on the fact that the Spanish quintet surely deserved more attention from foreign critics during that decade. Bands that don't use English as their singing language are often left on the back burner, but I assure you that "Pacto con El Diablo" is a well-executed work and deserves at least a listen!

The sampling of a jackhammer serves as the intro to the powerful and incisive "El Principio del Fin", in my opinion the best song on the album. "Condenados a vivir" and "Sangre" highlight powerful riffs brilliantly executed by the Alvarez/Garcia duo. "No juegues con fuego" and "Es un pacto con el diablo" close the album after nearly forty minutes of good Heavy Metal.

Work recommended to all defenders who are devotees of good old metal from the '80s. Simplicity, genuineness, and humility are the main ingredients of Angeles del Infierno, who also churned out another noteworthy album "Diabolicca", released the following year, which unfortunately was their last "must-have". The band later lost its way, opting for more "easy listening" paths, always having a good following (including Central America) but declining in terms of inspiration. Give it a thought!

STAY HEAVY!!!