Helstar was a well-hidden secret of the US Metal of the 80s that only a few “initiated” ones were aware of (at least in the early days). It is a Cult band that released 5 diamonds –one better than the other- of pure US metal sound. Unfortunately, in 1995 Helstar broke up only to re-appear in 2006 with a reunion of the classic Remnants of War line-up (Rivera/ Abarca/ Trevino/ Barragan + DeLeon). Last year, they released a collection of re-recorded songs (“Sins Of The Past”) that also included two brand new-precursor songs for the new album.

“The King Of Hell” is up to the grade of the band’s illustrious past. The Texan band offers wholeheartedly Heavy Metal with tight compositions that combine technique, melody and speed while the guitar work is structured in a way for break-neck after a few listening sessions. We haven’t heard of such well-performed music for a long time and we couldn’t be happier about it! Helstar remains loyal to the true values of the 80s sound (but in an obvious updated manner) and reveal their experience and power with a dynamite record! James Rivera puts on an unbelievable performance; he sounds really mature and hits the nail to the head with his familiar high-pitched voice! I want distinguish any of the 9 songs (of the regular release) because all of them are absolutely brilliant!

Helstar is back and they are here to stay!

Louis Kostopoulos