Amongst the trend for alternative, indie and noise, it's good to have some trad thrash back.

Helstar's new album will really please metal fans who like it heavy and fast without becoming a mess.

Opening track 'Burning Star' features a power metal guitar at the heavy yet chunky end of Judas Priest, some of the guitar runs are well worth checking out.

As if we need reminding, this ‘Missing Link' shows the NWoBHM influences. Imagine a doom free Venom, with equal amounts of Jaguar and Raven without the runaway train. The changing pitch of the vocals and the interjection of some of the guitar solos will really take you back.

'Suicidal Nightmare' is equally beefed up. This is where heavy power metal and thrash meet. And 'The King Is Dead' will take you back to the early 80s in the best and heaviest possible way.

There's a nice eastern riff in 'Evil Reign', a good bass line too.

The medieval intro to 'Baptised In Blood' leads into an incredible frenzy guaranteed to make your head bleed.

If you like it heavy, either new or old, you'll love this.

***½

Review by Joe Geesin