I definitely hear some old Deliverance influence in this band from St. Louis, Missouri. There are six songs here, ranging from average length, like "Condomnation," to the 11-minute "Demoniac." Lyrically, Holy Sceptre has put a lot of time and effort into what they want to say, from the second coming of Christ, in "The Return," to abortion, in "Infanticide."
Musically, while the talent is obviously there, I think they have a little way to go before coming into the big leagues. Sometimes the BGV's go off key, like in "Dark Deeds," and, in my opinion, the double bass in "Modern Day Jesus Freaks" just doesn't seem to be able to keep up. "Knowledge of the Holy" is a lot better than some stuff I've heard. With a little more improvement, they could be the next big act.
Other coverage for this album
Salt #24Reviewed by Roadrunner6 long songs of Sacred Warrior or Deliverance style with more guitar leads. This is gothic power metal all the way, with Manowar vocals, galloping guitars & dual leads. Musically, I'm not sure how relevant to today this is. Lyrically Holy Sceptre isn't real creative but go for the straight up approach. More or less writing commentaries making the vocals seem done out of necessity & less like an…Similar sounding releases
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