Toledo Steel are a band that has improved their art so much over the last few months, their first demo was on the money, their first EP, oozed class and this new EP ‘Zero Hour’ shows a band ahead of their game. Their incessant roadwork has really paid off, its rare nowadays that bands put in the time and effort on the road, and as I write this I believe the band are about to set off to Greece to play over there for the first time. This is traditional metal that has the wings to travel with some remarkable and striking artwork, a futuristic vision, like Maiden’s ‘Somewhere in Time’ of which ‘Zero Hour’ has a couple of references to that release in terms of style and arrangements.
Out of the newer tracks, ‘Children of the Sun’ is a major epic piece of grounded British metal. Vocally and musically, there are more than a few nods to the obvious influence of Iron Maiden around 84-88 with some credible galloping leads and well-tuned metal credentials with some duelling guitars to tempt you into metallic submission. The vocals of Rich Rutter have come along leaps and bounds. Sometimes when I have seen this band live I have wanted there to be more projection in the sound, well here on record they and Rutter have certainly achieved this and managed to retain power whilst doing this also, a rare feat for a younger singer. This is especially notable on older tracks that have resurfaced on this release such as ‘Fallen Empire’ and the excellent live favourite ‘Speed Killer’. Some of the camaraderie of the rhythm section is cool, I especially like the drum and bass guitar trade off during ‘Children of the Sun’, already I’ve mentioned this tune I know, but this is a great track and there’s no mistaking the varied British influences that first bore fruit out of the original NWOBHM time period.
Toledo Steel are all about real heavy metal, no gimmicks, no bullshit, they are hardworking and seasoned “road dogs”. This hard work has clearly paid off, it’s wonderful to hear a band progress from their first release, a clear sign boys and girls that good things come to those who work for it! ‘Zero Hour’ is British metal with real genuine passion, ability and strength. These South coast rivet heads are one of a pair of bands that are the dog’s bollocks of traditional UK metal bands currently. I’ll raise my glass and bang my head in appreciation anytime, nice work gents.
(8.5/10 Paul Maddison)
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