Beyond Fear (SPV)
By Tim Den
Thursday. May 11, 12:41 AM
A hearty metal meal for all those loyal.

I know that the fans prefer Rob Halford, but I always thought Tim “Ripper” Owens had more virility, punch, versatility, and street smarts than the Metal God. Oh well, at least now metalheads get both the original Priest and Beyond Fear, Owen’s new endeavor. Though he remains Iced Earth’s vocalist, Beyond Fear is Ripper’s baby through and through. He writes most of the music and lyrics, put the band together, and considers it the synergy of his lifelong metal experience. He set out to form a group that captures the feel of Dio-era Black Sabbath and British Steel-era Judas Priest while adding a modern touch: this debut certainly sees that goal achieved. The man said it himself, “straightforward without sounding overly complicated and go directly to the bloodstream.” Yup, that about sums it up. Imagine Painkiller’s ferociousness with a 21st century flair in the riffing – and of course Owen’s effortlessly piercing vocals – ah, the double bass be kickin’ and the long hair be twirlin’. It’s classic sounding without being retro, stylish without being tech-y. A hearty metal meal for all those loyal, for sure.
www.spvusa.com

Tim Den

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