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Rating: If you want to start listening to real metal, it is almost a must to go through Grave Digger, one of the historic bands, perhaps less known than Iron Maiden, Metallica, and the like, but certainly on the same level as the aforementioned bands. This The Reaper is a masterpiece of heavy metal; a heavy metal also influenced by speed and even some (just a hint) of power.
After the introductory Tribute To Death, it immediately kicks off with the first real song, and what a song! "The Reaper", a historic song of the group, is captivating at every moment, and Chris Boltendahl's screeching voice is a delight. "Ride On" is one of the songs most influenced by power, just like the following "Shadows Of A Moonless Night" and is highly listenable. After this trio of stunning heavy/power songs, comes the speed gallop "Play Your Game (And Kill)", which, in addition to the excellent and repeated chorus, features a beautiful solo. "Wedding Day" even reminds of Megadeth, their slower songs: the growling à la Mustaine voice, accompanied only by the bass in the verses. "Spy Of Mas'On" is one of the weak points of the CD; nice, sure, but the chorus is too repetitive. "Under My Flag" is another standout track on the CD, as well as the noisy "Fight The Fight". "Legion Of The Lost Part 2" is a slow song that suddenly speeds up during the choruses. "And The Devil Plays Piano" is one of my favorites: an easily enjoyable chorus, catchy rhythm, and a solo that I consider the best of the entire work, make this a must-listen song! "Ruler Mr. H" doesn't particularly convince due to its repetitiveness; this true masterpiece concludes with "The Madness Continues", an instrumental piece.
Nothing else to add, I think, except to close with what is the summary of the review, for those who don't want to read it all: this is pure and hard Heavy Metal!
Tracklist Lyrics and Videos
02 The Reaper (04:16)
Welcome to the Evil's nightmare
See the demons dancing round
waiting for the reaper's rising
Looking out for Satan's crowd
The grave is open, a digger's smile
please welcome the dead
Look Behind You; He Stands Behind You
The Reaper Shall Return
Look Reside You; Walks beside You
The Reaper has Returned
Tonight the Reaper's party is open
Get entrance, get the trance
Forget about the words of warning
Forget about the smell of death
The raft of death now leaves the landing
Waters wipe out space and time
Black man gives a skinless smile
Cold greetings reach your mind
09 Fight the Fight (02:46)
Raging on a warpath, storming through the town
Blowing it to pieces, killing all around
Fighting for existance, looking for a way
Now it's getting harder, it's the price you pay
Black or White - it's no different kind
Black or White - the leader are so lind
Fight The Fight
Fight for Your Right
Fight The Fight
And See The Light
Crossing bloody streets, waiting for attack
Living for a moment, never turning back
Striking down the white, killing all in sight
It's a state of hate, where fires burning bright
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Other reviews
By fenni
An incredible and frantic raw and adrenaline-pumping speed metal storm, a dizzying spiral of tight and badass riffs.
The Reaper is a milestone of metal, a sort of nascent concept that tells of the skeletal and relentless reaper of souls.
By Harlan
"This album, gentlemen, is pure power."
"If you’re looking for a violent, dirty album that is absolutely unique in its genre, take 'The Reaper' with your eyes closed."
