REVIEW: SACRED OATH – Demo Anthology (1985 – 1986)

 

SACRED OATH – Demo Anthology (1985 – 1986)

Strormspell Records

The 1980s consistently prove to be an inexhaustible source of inspiration for the heavy metal sound. It's no coincidence that many record labels, especially from the underground scene, continue to steadily release old demos, unreleased material, or reissues of albums from bands of that era. This release from the American label Stormspell Records fits into this context; the label has gained a reputation for its meticulous work on reissues and collector's packages.

SACRED OATH is a band that, although they began their activity in the United States in the 80s, became quite well-known in Greece in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Besides, it's no secret that the Greek audience has a particular appreciation for the U.S. heavy/power metal sound. This is why the current release is expected to satisfy many Greek fans, as well as enthusiasts of the genre in general.

This collection includes SACRED OATH's first two demos, recorded and released in 1985 and 1986 respectively, this time with improved sound and careful production. Although even back then, by the standards of the time, their production quality was considered noteworthy, today's remastered version offers a more complete listening experience that even better highlights the band's musical dynamics.

SACRED OATH's musical style in their early stages bears all the characteristics of the classic U.S. heavy/power metal sound, with clear influences from landmark bands like early IRON MAIDEN, as well as the "Powerslave" era. However, what sets them apart is the creative assimilation of these influences. SACRED OATH doesn't simply try to copy, but to build their own aggressive and theatrical sound. Their compositions are enriched with thrash elements, reminiscent of early METALLICA and SLAYER, giving them a more "dark" and aggressive dimension. At the same time, the vocals possess a theatricality strongly reminiscent of KING DIAMOND during the MERCYFUL FATE era.

The result is an authentic sound, full of passion and sincerity, which makes SACRED OATH worthy of the attention of genre fans. I won't elaborate further – those who love this sound are probably already eagerly anticipating May 15, 2025, the release date of the collection. In closing, it's worth noting that there was another band with the same name, the British SACRED OATH, who belonged to the NWOBHM scene and released a single demo in 1985 titled "The Power of the Oath" before disbanding the same year. In contrast, the American SACRED OATH continue to release new material even today, keeping the flame of classic heavy metal alive.

Nick Parastatidis