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THE REVIEW
Deus lo vult...
"Knights of the Cross" was the seventh creation by the Grave Digger, one of the most notable German heavy metal bands, led by the rough vocalist Chris Boltendahl. The album was first released in 1998 and still stands as the second act of the medieval trilogy, begun with "Tunes of War". After putting to music the struggle for Scotland's independence against England, and before Boltendahl was inspired to praise the legendary King Arthur, the band decided to present the audience with this concept about the Templar knights
From a musical standpoint, the album confirms the style of the previous "Tunes of War" even though the sounds have slightly changed: the guitars are clearer, and the keyboards, now more present, create a harmonious backdrop of mystical, gentle, ethereal tones. The acoustic guitars also play an important role (central in several parts of the record), providing moments of intense peace and melancholy. The musical translation of all this is "Keeper of the Holy Grail", an arcane ballad (which tells of the mystery surrounding the sacred chalice of Christ), adorned with an unusual central instrumental where organ and keyboards tune an air that touches the borders of sacred music. Naturally, there are also purely metallic moments, like the gallop "Inquisition", supported by an evocative bridge and a spectacular weave of voices in the refrain. Mention should also be made of the warlike title track, the swift "Monks of War", and the epic "Lionheart" (focusing on the figure of Richard the Lionheart). We also have some transitional episodes like the power song "Over the Seas", the fiery (and completely out of place) "Fanatic Assassins", and finally "Baphomet", a weak hard rock episode. The album, however, concludes with "The Battle of Bannockburn" (introduced by a bagpipe solo), a track where lyrics and music reference the immortal "Tunes of War".
A mature, powerful, instinctive album, perhaps a bit too straightforward, but after all, what other characteristics should heavy metal have if seen in its rawest form?
2014 Anno Domini.
Federico "Dragonstar" Passarella
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Summary by Bot
Knights of the Cross is Grave Digger's seventh album, continuing their medieval trilogy with a focus on Templar knights. It features clearer guitars, mystical keyboards, and a mix of acoustic and metallic elements. The album balances powerful metal tracks with ethereal ballads, showcasing maturity and instinctive energy. Some weaker tracks do not detract much from the overall strong composition and thematic unity.Tracklist Lyrics Videos
Grave Digger
Grave Digger are a German heavy metal band led by vocalist and founder Chris Boltendahl, active since the early 1980s. The reviews highlight their consistency, rough vocal trademark, and a strong run in the 1990s with concept-driven albums, especially The Reaper and the medieval-themed releases.19 Reviews
Other reviews
By Harlan
An album that studies one of the bloodiest chapters in history, played excellently without ever falling into the ridiculous.
I recommend this album to all people who love classic metal, don’t be too scared by Boltendahl’s voice if you are used to cleaner voices of course, and to all the history lovers, like me.
