Artist: Helstar 
   Title: Sins Of The Past
   Label: AFM Records

When you draw up a list of the most influential metal acts of the 80’s, the Texas based Helstar would surely be amongst most peoples list.  With the motivating force of the vocals from James Rivera leading the way, this quintet had everything. Great vocals, a rip snorting rhythm section and a twin guitar assault that would lay down the foundations for many bands to follow.

The band had a turmoiled shelf life and decided to call it a day shortly after the release of their 'Nosterferu' concept album.  Although they did resurfaced in 1995 for their 'Multiples of Black' album.  However, it wasn’t until 2004 that singer Rivera would decide to bring back the original line-up, although this process wasn’t easy and it wasn’t until 2006, that all parties finally got together to re-record some of their back catalogue for this ‘Sins Of The Past’ release.  A kind of prologue to their new album due for release in 2008.

With the aid of new recording equipment the band have not only set about re-releasing what is a "best of" album, but they've actually gone that step further and re-recorded all the tracks to breathe into them a whole new life.  This combined with the addition of two new tracks allows the album to prepare the world for the return of the mighty Helstar.

The album boasts some truly fine metal moments from the opener ‘Burning Star’ from the bands debut release of the same name.  This one, like the majority of the album actually, still stands the test of time and with Rivera at the helm you just know the vocals are going to be awesome.

The album powers through the speakers as the classics like ‘The King Is Dead’, ‘Evil Reign’ and ‘Tyrannacide’ are as driven as ever.

The two new tracks on the album show the band haven’t lost any of their firepower, with ‘Tormentor’ with its pummelling start and darker tone and ‘Caress Of The Dead’, with Rivera’s earth shattering vocals, both providing a taste of what is to come with the new album.  If these two songs are just an example of what the band are about in 2008, then it looks like Helstar are about to ignite the night sky once more.

All content copyright of The Mayfair Mall Zine unless otherwise stated.