(Power Metal) Steel Angel - And the angels were made of steel & Kiss of steel - 1993, APE (image+.cue), lossless

A dream came true, I never thought that I would ever get this album, one of my favourite ones, on CD. This is truly a masterpiece of Metal. It’s the debut album of the French STEEL ANGEL, it was previously released on Devil Records and they were immediately outstanding as their lyrics were in English. Other acts like BLASPHEME, ADX, KILLERS or HIGH POWER used French lyrics and that was often a kind of charm of them. But this was no reason for less quality regarding SA – on the contrary, they were the kings!

Their Epic-Fantasy-Metal was different, very US-like and already the John Arch-like vocals were mightily impressive! Their strength was their traditional riffing coupled with an epic atmosphere, basically only created by the biggest Gods of the US scene. This ended up in cult songs like “Warrior”, a song, which is almost indescribable in words for me. Unbelievably ingenious, intriguing, conjuring, epic! Already those gigantic solo is one of the best, I’ve ever heard! Or take the title track, totally breathtaking… “Midnight” is a unique ballad, accompanied by a piano, minimalistic but still breathtaking.

"Judas (Angel Or Demon)“, "Knights Of The War“, "The Law“ or "Power And Action“ are altogether songs, which were very meaningful for me and they always walked along with me somehow. These are great songs of a brilliant band, full of passion and talent. Only “For The Metal” is a song, I always had some problems with. It’s a gorgeous track but the chorus is a bit weak compared with those other divine tracks… As bonus, there is their second album “Kiss Of Steel”, which isn’t that strong as their undying debut as it contains a change in their style. It’s much more melodic, catchier and with much harmony vocals, so rather something for fans of PRETTY MAIDS, EXCALIBUR or Axel Rudi Pell. It has some strong moments and great songs, no doubt, but my heart is with their debut, it’s one of my all-time favourites… Hot Metal Records release these two records, remastered and limited to only 1000 copies. So, get it as soon as possible... (Online June 14, 2005)

Paul Breitner Bass
Freddy Caille Drums
Chris Bonardo Guitars
See also: ex-Oversoul
Michel Guerrero Guitars
Pat Montero Vocals