Whenever we talk about bands from the classic days of heavy metal that are still going whether it be as they continue decades-long careers or returning from hiatuses that eventually led them back to crafting new material for us to eat right up, we could have a proper laundry list of bands to talk about. With a lifespan that’s crossed multiple name changes, shifts in the line-up, and more than one hiatus, Satan’s influence on the metal scene as a whole has never been larger. Even though the band was conceived back in the late 70s, it’s now that we can certifiably say that Satan is at their peak with their sixth full-length album being more than enough proof needed to show why that’s the case.

It’s hard to believe that forty years after Satan first set out to deliver us high-quality heavy metal the likes of which would’ve surely been influential on anyone who would’ve picked it off the shelves in those early days that we would today be living in what should effortlessly be considered the band’s golden years. By that I don’t refer to their age which couldn’t have any less of an impact on the music that’s brought forth to really make “Earth Infernal” such a treat right from the outset. Rather, the undeniable quality that’s to be had out of each and every one of these ten tracks that make for a 47-minute effort of captivating riffs, engaging energy, and a powerful understanding of what it means to make compelling heavy metal that sticks in the mind and echoes in the ears of those who find themselves lucky enough to bear witness to this absolute mastery of the style. Even light knowledge of heavy metal could be enough to make an effort that can be deemed as interesting from many different angles, but it takes true masters to transform the sound into something that not only pays immense homage to the sound’s roots but feels as though it’s pushing it even further by making it a wild ride that cannot be denied as well as vastly entertaining that refuses to be played quietly or skipped. And should anyone dare to turn this excellence down or skip it then I think it’s fair to call that a true sin upon quality metal for “Earth Infernal” simply is not something that cannot, should not, and will not be denied its position as a heavy metal masterwork to shake fans to their knees as well as possibly taking the crown as Satan’s best to date!

It would be considered a challenge by all regards for a band to top themselves in any category no matter what angle you’re looking at it from, but for seasoned veterans like Satan to do it almost naturally with so many years already behind them, it’s a true wonder that this is just their sixth album with it certainly being one for the books as what should be hailed as one of the band’s finest whenever it’s time for them to call it one final time. No matter how you look at it, the power of “Earth Infernal” is not something to be looked over in any capacity, and it’s no time soon that it should leave our listening habits for this is glory that deserves to be talked about over and over again.

“Earth Infernal” releases on April 1st via Metal Blade!

PRE-ORDER “Earth Infernal” via multiple sources here.

LISTEN to singles from “Earth Infernal” on Bandcamp here.

LIKE Satan on Facebook here.