IRON JAW is a relatively recently formed band. They were formed in 2016 by a group of experienced musicians that are participating or have participated in various other acts, mostly from the local Texas heavy metal scene.
The strong team is comprised of Rick Perry (also member in GAMMACIDE, PUNCTURE, ex-member of WARBEAST) and Jeff Brown in guitars (also in TOXIC, ex-member in PLAGUE ALLEGIANCE), Todd Pack in vocals (also in HORROR CULT, ex-member in CREEPER and HALLOWβS EVE), Clay McCarthy in bass (ex-member in WARLOCK TEXAS) and Randy Cook in drums (also in ROTTING CORPSE).
Back in 2020 the band showed their teeth and strength for the first time with the debut full-length album ββChain of Commandββ. Now, 5 years later, they are returning with their sophomore album which has all the potential to establish further their name.
The album has 7 songs, that most of them have already been released as singles in 2023 or have been presented in the past through their official YouTube channel. It is very good that all the songs are collected together, to form the sophomore album of the band.
The most important reason I wanted to do this review was the high music worth of the songs themselves since the first moment I listened to them.
The album has an old school feel. It grabs the attention of the listener since the first moments that someone is ββexposedββ to the music, keeps you firmly and does not leave you loose until itβs over, after approximately 35 minutes. Each and every song is good. No fillers here.
The first single that was introduced for the album was the self-titled one and was very indicative of what the style of the music is all about. You need to contemplate it as a combination between the classic β80s and early β90s JUDAS PRIEST era and the Texas legendary band HELSTAR.
Especially the voice of Todd Pack is indeed great, definitely reminiscent of Rob Halfordβs voice, with high pitched screams and a wonderful magnetizing timbre.
The songs are mid- to fast tempo with really hooking, well crafted riffing, which are leading to very catchy powerful choruses that you cannot forget. Consequently, these elements create a great rhythm in the album. Every fan of traditional β classic heavy metal should remain satisfied with the outcome because there are top-notch quality songs and fist-raising energy in them.
I would say that the album made me, in the end, to want to listen new and more material from the band, as soon as possible.
To wrap it up, as a verdict and to make a long story short:
In Texas Metal we trust!
ββ Cursedββ will be released on the 24th of January 2025 by No Life βtil Metal Records and will be available on LP, CD and Digital format.
_____________________________________________________________________
Check the discussion about the album in our forum pages.