Unreal Terror
Heavy & Dangerous

I continue to review and bring to your attention bands that, in their own small way, have contributed enormously to the Italian metal scene. The next group I would like to comment on is Unreal Terror, originally from Pescara, formed in 1979. However, their career began well before that, precisely in the early seventies. Mario Di Donato and Enio Nicolini were part of a hard rock band called Respiro Di Cane, which shortly after, in 1979, transformed into U.T.

In 1982, U.T. became Unreal Terror, adopting the English language, and the new singer was Benedetto Spinazzola (who later also joined Wotan). That same vocalist, after the first concert, suddenly decided to leave the group and was replaced by Luciano Palermi. Their live activity intensified throughout Italy, and they were finally involved in the metal scene. In 1985, they recorded their first EP, "Heavy & Dangerous," which contained four incredible tracks. The line-up included Mario Di Donato on guitar, Luciano Palermi on vocals, Enio Nicolini on bass, and Silvi "Spaccalegna" on drums. The sound of the quartet is typically British heavy metal, yet enriched with originality from a sonic point of view, differentiating them from Vanexa, Crying Steel, and others. The opener "Unreal Terror" is a true lesson in N.W.O.B.H.M., equipped with a typically British opening riff and an amazing performance from the whole band! The beginning is very wild and hard, supported by Palermi's sharp voice, leading to the melodic and irresistible refrain, typically classic metal. Naturally, there are various references in terms of rhythm to Judas Priest, while in the choruses to Blitzkrieg's "Armageddon" and Diamond Head. A track that, despite its brief duration, manages to encapsulate the lessons of the sacred monsters of '80s metal! The second song, "The Voice In The Darkness," is introduced by the vocalist's sudden scream and Mario's incredible guitar solos and virtuosity. The heavy main riff and the energetic and commanding voice create a dark atmosphere similar to Angelwitch's "Baphomet" and Witchfinder General's "Satan's Children." The refrain is effective and pleasant, while around the second minute, the track transforms into a true heavy gallop, thanks to the pounding drums, metallic riffs, and Luciano's captivating voice.

The famous and anthemic "Headbanger" follows, initially enriched by Mario's technical solos and a furious scream from the singer. All this before launching into the massive, almost proto-thrash, riffing and the singer’s impressive vocal skills, proving to be in great shape. The chorus features the usual British melody, making the piece more interesting and memorable. Notable are also the solos of the talented guitarist Di Donato and Luciano Palermi, whose voice reaches extremely high peaks. Pure N.W.O.B.H.!! The last track, "Freedom Be Your Law," is an exciting semi-ballad that I would dare to call the "Unknown Soldier" of Unreal Terror! The singer adopts a more melancholic and pathos-rich tone, accompanied by Mario's beautiful and effective guitar chords. After a sensational start, the energetic riffing comes in, and the vocalist’s voice becomes more loaded and intense. The refrain has an almost epic timbre, while the ending is characterized by a surprising and impressive crescendo of great power! Incredible but true, this is the debut of an Italian metal band that, UNFORTUNATELY, is not known by everyone!

After this startling EP, guitarist Mario Di Donato left the group for his project Requiem (another great speed-thrash metal band) and was replaced by Giuseppe Convivenza in 1986. That same year, Unreal Terror released the album "Hard Incursion," at which point the quartet became a reference group in the central-southern metal scene. In 1987, they participated in the compilation "Rock Meets Metal," contributing a track, and in 1989, the band disbanded. HEADBANGER!!