The White Metalheads of SAINT are back again and have a new album: “In The Battle”. As they are confident Christians, I believe, that they are in the battle against all unbelievers. Or maybe against all modern in Metal because this album is such Old School, more Old School isn’t possible. Everything, from the “stereotyped” cover, the production to the nine compositions sounds of the 80s.

That’s good as already the opener and title track shines with its midtempo pace and an anthem-like chorus. “Star Pilot Return” reminds of elder PRIEST, ennobled with high screams, you all know from uncle Halford. “Here We Are” is rather stomping and has a cool guitar solo in the beginning. Again with an out of hand but great chorus. “Sacrifice” is the best song of the entire album, in my opinion. Seventies-PRIEST-feeling meets elevated vocal lines. Great! “Holy Rollin’” is again stomping and with a hymnal singing. Also the next three songs aren’t that different – but that’s a plus for the band. Originality isn’t really a strength of SAINT. But when I buy a MARDUK album for example, I don’t expect any ballads or innovations... the absolute killer track (apart from “Sacrifice”) is presented in the end by the US Metallers: “Full Armor”, which is introduced by the acoustic intro “Acid Rain”. An utter headbanger track, reminding me a bit of CAGE. Cool sirens singing and Metal in pureness!!!

What I like on SAINT is, that they have a totally unique style despite their old-fashioned direction. Okay, they contain slight JUDAS PRIEST tendencies – but I could name a thousands of bands, borrowing lots of elements from PRIEST & MAIDEN. These are simply the Godfathers (maybe also BLACK SABBATH). But as long as bands like SAINT sound that dedicated and authentical, it’s alright. If you are interested, please visit www.hellionrecords.de or www.stephans-buchhandlung.de. (Online June 13, 2004)