REVIEW: BLOODBOUND – Unholy Cross

 

BLOODBOUND – Unholy Cross

AFM Records

Periodically, artists benefit from exploring different musical styles, often as a means of gaining new inspiration and subsequently returning to their core sound with renewed vigor. BLOODBOUND, a band I hold in high regard, faced a notable disappointment with their previous release, Tabula Rasa, which veered into Gothenburg melodic death metal with clean vocals—an approach that did not resonate with my expectations for their typical style.

Their upcoming release, Unholy Cross (scheduled for release in mid-March), signifies a conscious return to their traditional heavy/power metal roots. The album predominantly features galloping, energetic tracks that draw clear influence from classic bands such as ACCEPT, HELLOWEEN, IRON MAIDEN, and RIOT—most notably in songs like “Message from Hell.”

Throughout Unholy Cross, I observed stylistic similarities to bands like EDGUY (particularly their early albums), SABATON, and STEEL ATTACK—bands known for their melodic and powerful metal sound. The album demonstrates BLOODBOUND’s proficiency in crafting engaging metal tunes and showcases their ability to deliver memorable, high-energy compositions.

For fans of traditional heavy and power metal, Unholy Cross offers a collection of tracks that are likely to satisfy and endure over time. Personal favorites include “Drop the Bomb,” “In for the Kill,” “Together We Fight,” “Message from Hell,” and the title track “Unholy Cross.” Overall, this release reaffirms BLOODBOUND’s capabilities and provides a compelling addition to their discography, especially for listeners seeking robust and classic metal arrangements.

Nick Parastatidis