In the 1980s, Holland could (and still can) boast some excellent heavy rock/metal bands. Vengeance being one of the best along with the likes of Helloise, Vandenberg et al. Over the years early Vengeance stuff has become hard to find though their eponymous debut album has been re-issued by French label Bad Reputation.
Vengeance is chock full of huge, crisp chugging riffs, huge, complementary solos by guitar duo Oscar Hollerman and Arjen Lucassen (yes – THAT Arjen Lucassen) a big, fat drum sound and throbbing bass – and that’s before we make mention of the monster vocals of Leon Goewie.
Each of the nine songs are fine up-tempo rockers with a feel-good style to them. An element of fun and not taking things too seriously –whilst having plenty of meat behind them.
Don’t be expecting deep lyrics exploring the meaning of life, the universe and everything. Do expect a set of ditties to blow your socks off.
Take the opener – Down and Out. Have a listen.
https://youtu.be/6rw8vc81VF4
Did you enjoy that? Jolly good is it not?
Tonight, Tonight and Get Out of a similar style – the riffs, Hollerman and Lucassen trading off each other. Top drawer stuff.
You Took Me By Surprise slightly slower though has a huge hook. Metal Days I think is a fine demonstration of Goewie’s vocal power, range and feel.
Prisoner of the Night’s sledgehammer riff and the title track is a real stormer.
Some tasty bonus tracks too. A studio and live version of Deathride to Glory (another massive riff). Also live recordings of Down and Out and Tonight – showing how good Vengeance must have been live back then – and a “special remix” of the ballad style Only the Wind.
Vengeance had a shortish career in the 1980s getting better with each release before splitting. Goewie “got the band back together” however since 2013’s Piece of Cake they appear to have disappeared again.
This debut album doesn’t have a weak moment anywhere and is a superb “Euro metal” moment. One of my favourites from the period. Check it out for yourself please.
>> VENGANCE’S DEBIT ALBUM ON AMAZOM HERE <<
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