Review SATAN “Songs in Crimson”

Satan is metal. The band from England is one of the pioneers of heavy metal. Founded in 1979, these guys have released a remarkable debut album called “Caught in the Act”, which still belongs to the timeless masterpieces in heavy metal. This happened in 1983 and the band continued with an album entitled “Suspended Sentence” which saw the light of day in 1987.

After such a start and contributing to the rise of heavy metal, the band returned in 2011 after having put their efforts into some other bands and projects. Today is the release of Satan’s new album “Songs in Crimson” and it is an exciting new release from true veterans of heavy metal.

One of the first things you notice is the sound of the album. It carries an oldschool vibe that gives the record an organic expression. “Songs in Crimson” has a great sound, especially since the songs don’t sound too clean and sterile. There are edges and a human factor that make this release stand out these days.

It all starts with the up-tempo “Frantic Zero” which is a great entry into the album. The song is a furious opener with some great breaks and a blistering solo section. This is heavy metal at its best.

The roots of heavy metal sparkle as soon as the first notes of “Era (The Day Will Come)” hit your eardrums. “Whore Of Babylon” follows a similar approach and what is obvious while listening to these two songs is the fact that Satan is unpredictable. The band found their sonic trademarks quite early in their career and never lost the connection to them. What adds the surprise factor to the album are the twists and turns.

Satan can keep up the high level of quality and the songs in the lower part of the tracklist are as good as the first metal anthems of this release. Just take the more progressive and layered “Curse in Disguise”, which follows the hammering “Captives”. “Truth Bullet” pumps some iron in the beginning before turning into a roaring mid-tempo smasher.

“Deadly Crimson” can be considered the title track, as the album doesn’t have a specific title track. It is an anti-capitalist anthem that deals with the threatening concept of making money out of money.
Satan in 2024 is as sharp and powerful as ever. The five guys have been playing together since the early 80’s and it’s the musical vision that allows them to make music that comes straight from the heart.

These songs are a matter of the heart, resulting in an album where the human aspect wins over technology. “Songs in Crimson” is a very powerful record and another cornerstone release in heavy metal.