Weapon UK - 'Rising From The Ashes'

(Pure Steel Records)

Weapon UK are one of those bands that came close to breaking into the big time but never quite made it but along the way made enough of a cult following to keep plugging away! Things started off well when the band formed amidst the burgeoning NWOBHM scene of the early eighties – even going on an extensive tour with Motorhead in 1980. The band have been more active in recent years and play live as frequently as they can and are very popular on the NWOBHM festival circuit.

Originally released in 2014 ‘Rising From The Ashes’ is only their second album, their debut album recorded back in the day never saw the light of day until 2003. While the band don’t have much of a discography the band made enough impact on the live scene to garner a loyal fanbase and the desire for the band to record and release an album.

Weapon UK wear their NWOBHM badge with pride and they veer towards the hard rock end of that genre’s banner, similar to the legendary Tygers Of Pan Tang! They are heavy edged but are extremely melodic. ‘Rising From The Ashes’ is a little bit middle of the road, it’s good and enjoyable but it’s not mind blowing so it falls a little flat in it’s overall impression on me. There are some cool guitar riffs and I appreciate the vocal harmonies and the albums overall strong melodic tone but sadly it’s an album that is easy to forget.

I don’t think ‘Rising From The Ashes’ has mass appeal but NWOBHM fans should really enjoy it. It’s retro, in a good way, but it has a modern production which helps bring out the best in the strong melodic edge these songs have.

Highlights include reflective ballad ‘Alamein’ which stands out with its enjoyable guitars and smooth vocal melodies, an intriguing cover of Thin Lizzy’s ‘The Rocker’ as well as ‘Blood Soaked Rock’ with its chant chorus and killer riff – a decent melodic hard rock song with a strong British feel to it!

In vocalist Danny Hynes they have a great vocalist with a smooth melodious tone and in guitarist Jeff Summers a talented guitarist who can craft infectious riffs. It’s very easy to see why these guys have a cult following, hopefully their next release will have a little something extra to set my stereo ablaze!

6/10

Essential Track - 'Blood Soaked Rock'

Review by Woody