Review CLOVEN HOOF “Never a Prophet in Your Own Land”

Cloven Hoof is one of those band names that has been tied to heavy metal for what feels like forever. The story began in Wolverhampton, England, back in 1979, followed by a self-titled debut album in 1984. The band disappeared from the radar during the metal-unfriendly ’90s, but the passion for the music never really faded. By the early 2000s, the members found enough common ground to bring Cloven Hoof back to life.

The lineup has never exactly been a model of stability, leaving bassist Lee Payne as the only remaining original member still carrying the torch. One of the more interesting chapters in the band’s recent history came in 2023, when Jag Panzer vocalist Harry “The Tyrant” Conklin stepped into the frontman role. His unmistakable voice adds another dimension to Cloven Hoof’s current sound. That became apparent on Heathen Cross, and the new album continues to build on that partnership.

Cloven Hoof remain firmly rooted in traditional heavy metal, operating very much in the spirit of the NWoBHM era. At the same time, the band has managed to put together a record with plenty of variety. The lightning-fast “Terror From the Skies” gets things moving at full speed, bringing the spirit of classic heavy metal to the forefront from the opening minute. Conklin wastes no time showing exactly what he can do behind the microphone.

The album’s range becomes apparent right away with the acoustic introduction to the pounding “Conquistador.” It settles into a moderate, stomping groove that practically demands a raised fist and a moving neck. “Never a Prophet” takes a more melodic route, finding a comfortable meeting point between metal and classic rock.

Things take a darker turn with “The Bigger They Are,” a track that also stands out for its strong melodic structure. The early ’80s leave their fingerprints on “Iron Mask,” while that vintage character becomes even more obvious on “Phantom Chaser.”

The most varied and atmospheric track on the record is arguably “Flying Dutchman.” Instead of leading with huge riffs only, the song takes its time. It gradually builds tension and develops into one of the album’s highlights before the more rock-oriented “Prodigal Son” shifts the mood once again.

Never a Prophet in Your Own Land is a solid album from a band that played a part in shaping the heavy metal tradition in the first place. Cloven Hoof aren’t simply performing traditional metal – they clearly still believe in it. Rather than chasing whatever trend happens to be passing by, the band sticks to its roots while keeping the material fresh, energetic, and varied.

For Cloven Hoof, tradition isn’t a museum piece. It’s still loud, still kicking, and still made for headbanging.