Shok Paris
Steel And Starlight

Presented with a cover in the style of Rondò Veneziano, this "Steel And Starlight" little/great masterpiece of classic Heavy Metal, and second album of the little-known Cleveland band, was released in the now distant 1987.

Ten metallic pearls rolling crazily down the winding path already traced by bands like Riot, Accept, and, of course, Judas Priest. Nothing original? Maybe, but we don't care, and when "Go Down Fighting" kicks in followed by the title track, the stereo speakers explode with all the energy and roughness (but also melody) that only old-school Metal knew how to unleash. There are also more relaxed moments like in "Castle Walls" introduced by a beautiful acoustic guitar arpeggio in the best tradition of "false" Heavy Metal ballads. But it's only a moment, and it continues with the speedy "On Your Feet" with its fiery N.W.O.B.H.M. shades.
The album reaches its peak in "Exhibit A," a track/masterpiece where the schizophrenic voice of singer Vic Hix (an impossible cross between Dio and Udo) is as shrill in the high notes as it is deep and clean, almost lyrical, in the lower parts, finds fertile ground to ignite, um, to express itself at its best. Remarkable too are guitarists Ken Erb and Eric Marderwald, creators of ingenious rhythmic parts and splendid incisive and "vulgar" solos as true Heavy Metal requires!

The vinyl is not at all difficult to find, and with a bit of luck, you might come across it at a reasonable price even at Sunday markets!