Review HELSTAR “The Devil’s Masquerade”

The Houston, Texas-based metal band Helstar has returned with a new album. “The Devil’s Masquerade” is the band’s 11th studio album and once again brings together the driving forces of James Rivera (vocals) and Larry Barragan (guitars). The two founding members teamed up with Michael Lewis (drums), Garrick Smith (bass), and Alan DeLeon Jr. (guitars) to craft nine new songs and one intro for the album.

With vampires and demons serving as the lyrical foundation once again, Helstar delivers great US metal reminiscent of their earlier successes, such as “A Distant Thunder” and “Nosferatu.”

“Avernus” is the diabolical opening of the album, which continues with the title track, an up-tempo tune. Furious guitars and a fast tempo characterize this blistering metal track, setting the scene for the album. “Stygian Miracles” continues the up-tempo approach with hard-hitting drums and thunderous riffing. Combined with James Rivera’s powerful vocals, the song and album showcase a band that relies on experience and dedication to metal.

Next is “Carcass for a King,” where Helstar slows down the pace. It is the first mid-tempo song on the album, demonstrating a versatile approach to music, while “The Staff of Truth” shifts gears. The song is a metal anthem reminding us of the late ’80s, and it feels as if Rivera and Barragan have found the oldschool vibe again. With all the references to earlier Helstar releases, I must say that “The Devil’s Masquerade” captures the spirit of the heyday, and the powerful production by Barragan himself gives the album its dynamic and modern metal sound.

Most of the songs are fast metal anthems, such as the thunderous “The Black Wall.” A thumping bass, hard-hit strings, and powerful drumming tempt fans to some headbanging, and the same goes for “Suerte de Muleta,” the album’s instrumental. Barragan proves he is the riff master of Helstar, whether we listen to the heavy parts or the calmer middle section of the song.

We reach the end of the album with the opening riff of “I Am the Way.” It’s another ripping song with blazing speed and furious guitar work. “I Am the Way” features all Helstar trademarks and is a great way to end the album.

Helstar’s latest album is a delight for headbangers who appreciate old-school denim-and-leather metal. “The Devil’s Masquerade” showcases a veteran band that has found its old strength, which resonates in each song on their 11th record.