Virgin Sails

Type: LP
Released: November 19, 2013
Label: Moribund Cult Records

Running Time: 54:46

1. Cor Malifecus – Heart of Evil
2. Island of the Giant Ants
3. Dichotomy
4. Of Beast and Men
5. Akoman <
6. Reanimated Anomalies
7. Infinite Impossibilities
8. Vaporous of the Blood
9. Taromati
10. Virgin Sails

Lyrics

Recording Members:

Leviathan Thisiren- Vocals
Patrick Evil - Guitar
Anthony 'Evil Hobbit' Lopez- Drums
Margar- Bass

Additional Information:

Recorded at Flatline Audio, Westminster, CO - May 2012 & October 2013
Produced, Engineered, Mixed, & Mastered by Dave Otero
Engineer Assistance and Edits by Shane Howard
Layout and Design: Evil Hobbit, WebSlave
Cover Artwork: Joe Petagno
Photography- Tommy Galdy Rivera

Comments

"The best album of the year, no doubt about it! (12/12 rating)" --Heavy Magazine

"Absolutely necessary in all metal collections" --Xplosivemetal.com

"This is the epitome of classic heavy metal styles meeting modern production, I can't stop listening" --Slug

Virgin Sails on VINYL

High Roller Records, bronze vinyl, ltd 350, 425gsm heavy cardboard cover, lyric sheet

High Roller Records, black vinyl, ltd 150, 425gsm heavy cardboard cover, lyric sheet

Reviews

The Metal Crypt -April 09, 2014

Satan's Host have kind of come full circle. They started as a straight-up Heavy Metal band, mutated into a Death/Black band, and then Harry Conklin rejoined and started pulling their sound back toward US-styled Heavy Metal. This resulted in some odd albums as they essentially played Death Metal with clean singing, but now their style has come back around.

This is a lavish album full of heavy riffs and Conklin's signature powerful vocals. Comparisons could be made to such US acts as Steel Assassin or Liege Lord, with all the strengths and weaknesses that implies. The riffs are heavy and crunchy, and you get a lot of them. Conklin's not hitting it out of the park, but he sounds solid. The drawbacks include songs that sprawl out without a lot of focus, and arrangements that are more than a bit baggy. There are not any really first-rate songs on here, just a collection of riffs and parts that all sound cool individually, but never really gel into a larger whole. You'll enjoy this if you like stuff like Heathen or Jag Panzer, but it's not going to really blow you away.

Rating: 3.75/5 | Readers Rating 4.63/5

-Sargon the Terrible

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The Front Row Report -March 12, 2014

Metal and Satan have always gone hand-in-hand and, in today's metal world, Satan's presence is growing- just look at bands like Ghost, Butcher Babies All Yail the Yeti and other bands who either talk about Satan or have Satanic symbols on much of their merchandise.

One of the best bands to not hit the big time, who utilize Satan on many levels are Colorado's Satan's Host.

No strangers to the metal world, Satan's Host have been around for decades, owning the underground metal world and, with their latest offering, Virgin Sails, are ready to take the rest of the metal world by storm.

With grueling and bludgeoning metal riffs courtesy of Patrick Evil and vocals from Leviathan Thisire that would make Dio proud, it's a wonder why Satan's Host haven't been on the forefront of metal all these years, especially with forming in 1986.

Virgin Sails has everything you'd expect from a metal album in long tracks, dark lyrics, and stand-out musicianship. Look for Satan's Host to make a serious run at the mainstream metal world and make their mark this hear.

All hail Satan's Host.

Rating: 9/10

-Reggie Edwards

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The Ripple Effect -February 18, 2014

Alright, I will readily admit that I am a huge fan of this band, so reviewing this album was a no-brainer for me. And I love Moribund Records. I thought that maybe they had gone by the wayside, because I hadn't seen any releases from them for a while. They operate out of the same little town here in Washington state where you will find Tony Reed of Stone Axe and Mos Generator fame. The dude who runs the label really is named Odin. If you're a fan of metal, you really owe it to yourself to check out the label. Absolutely killer underground stuff.

Satan's Host is one of those killer bands, and they've been doing their thing for a while now. If you're not familiar with them, their thing is this pretty cool hybrid of power metal style vocals with some killer, crushing death and black metal music underneath. It might be a head scratcher on paper, but man oh man does it work on album and on stage.

Sometimes you can look at an album title and figure out what its about. I'm not sure what "Virgin Sails" means and the press release wasn't very helpful, but I guess it really doesn't matter. Just fire this one up and enjoy. There are 10 songs on offer here and its an offer you don't want to refuse. Sometimes you listen to death metal and you can get a little tired of the grunts and growls that pass for vocals, so the cool part of this band for me is that you can hear and understand the lyrics, and they are usually about some pretty cool stuff.

The leadoff track, "Cor Maleficus – Heart of Evil", gets everything going properly, just ripping and roaring along and setting the tune. This track is almost just a straight power metal song, but there is nothing wrong with that. And the tracks get heavier and nastier as the album goes along. "Of Beast And Men" is another favorite of mine. Its another one that really gets the blood pumping, with a nice galloping riff on the guitars and some absolute pummeling on the drums. "Vaporous Of The Blood" is another one that I really like. Starts off slowly but then all of sudden goes up to full throttle with a little vocal treatment that is more what you might expect from a death metal song.

You may know this band already and if you do you will enjoy this release as a continuation of some very solid albums over the last 6 or 7 years. If you're looking for something a little new, a little different in your metal, I highly recommend this album. It combines elements of metal that you don't often see together, and the playing and writing on this release are very good. This one comes with a great big thumbs up from your buddy Odin. You know I never steer you wrong.

-ODIN

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Brave Words & Bloody Knuckles -February 18, 2014

Never been able to fully, determinedly wrap my head around this frustrating proposition: Harry "Tyrant" Conklin (JAG PANZER) fronting a band that appears black but sounds (among other things, including a hint of black) power/trad/thrash, and puts out albums at an alarming rate, all of them long, consistent, and somewhat forgettable. The confusion furthers with tracks like 'Dichotomy', which flips from near THIN LIZZY guitar work to blast beats, with Conklin's familiar gruff-power vox over top. Normally, that would sound like a disaster, but the neat thing about Satan's Host is they make it work, everything coming across, somehow, as coherent and logical, even if the natural reaction is to run far away. I still wish they'd do some streamlining (shorter songs, shorter albums) so we could have a chance to digest these releases a bit more, and damned if I can remember a single part from any song here once it's not playing. But when it is playing, total metal, totally done well, the workmanlike approach to everything Conklin does all over the place, plus, they've kinda created a niche of their own at this point in to their career (this is album number eight), no small feat.

Rating: 7.5/10

-Greg Pratt

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Full Metal Attorney -February 14, 2014

I love Satan's Host. I have made absolutely no secret of that over the years. Their last full-length of original material nabbed the top spot on my end of the year best albums list. I even enjoyed a lot of their black metal material when their Satanic lyrics and image were overwhelming. Of course even though Patrick Evil's stunning guitar work was the star attraction, as it has always been throughout the band's history. Their blackened power metal style of their last album is still my favorite. So I was pretty excited when Satan's Host released a new album.

This is the long-running evil Colorado band's second album since Leviathan Thisiren, aka Harry Conklin of Jag Panzer, returned to the band for the first time since their 1987 EP. His return had brought back a clean vocal style instead of the blackened rasp of former vocalist L.C.F. Elixir. This change in vocal style brought a significant amount of attention back to the band, even though their black metal material was actually pretty strong.

This album is a continuation of the blackened power metal sound that reared its head on Satan's Host's last album. There is still definitely some black/death metal style riffing that can be heard on occasion, hearkening back to the band's older material before the return of Conklin. Every once in awhile, I expected a song similar to their re-recorded album. But the band would quickly return to the more traditional metal style in both riffs and vocals.

Of course the real stars on this album, as with the last album, are guitarist Patrick Evil and Conklin. Evil's songwriting and riffs continue to be top-notch. He is definitely at the top of his game, even in his 50's. He does a terrific job of combining traditional-sounding riffs with much heavier blackened-death riffing style. What results is an album that is powerful and yet extremely dark. He also throws in some impressive solos.

Conklin's voice is as strong as it has ever been. His soaring wails and harsher backup vocals during call-and-response moments truly drive this album. Conklin is easily one of the more underrated vocalists in metal as his work in Jag Panzer and on this album can attest. Even more impressive is the fact that this is likely his best work.

Satan's Host has definitely continued their excellent string of albums. The only knock is that this album does not have one truly standout track on it. It does not have a "Fallen Angel" like the last one did. But it is an overall excellent release.

Rating: 4.5/5

-Full Metal Attorney

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Music Street Journal -Janurary 30, 2014

"Black metal" is a term of nebulous meaning that is usually applied to any dark and Satanically-themed metal band. Most associate it with a certain style emanating from Scandinavia in the early 1990s. To others, it goes back further to ground-breaking bands of the 1980s like Venom and Bathory. But rarely is it applied to a band like Satan's Host.

These sinister acolytes have been around for years but have flown under the radar because they are neither fish nor fowl. Musically, they have much more in common with classic metal like Judas Priest, Angelwitch and Iron Maiden than the raw and brutal stuff usually thought of as "black metal." But when it comes to lyrics, they are about as black as it gets and this separates them from "standard" metal fare.

Virgin Sails is a record of such outstanding quality that Satan's Host can no longer be safely ignored. This is epic, aggressive, melodic heavy metal featuring the god-like vocals of longtime Jag Panzer frontman Harry Conklin. This man is incredible and can easily stand with the likes of Geoff Tate and Bruce Dickinson at the head of the metal table. He brings a class to Satan's Host that cannot be ignored. Add the diabolical yet tasteful axe blasting of Patrick Evil and some truly towering compositions and Virgin Sails emerges as a metal classic...black or not.

Track by Track Review

Cor Maleficus - Heart of Evil
Something wicked this way comes! The album opens up as dark as a thunderstorm and soon the beautifully melodic vocals of Harry Conklin relate a tale of Satanic majesty. There are some "beastly" vocals in the mix, but they definitely play second fiddle to Conklin's classical style. Like many of the tunes here, this is a long and twisting epic that moves easily from riff to riff. And all of the riffs here are excellent, especially when the pace picks up to a point just short of thrash. This is a truly awesome introduction to the power of Satan's Host.

Island of the Giant Ants
If the first track didn't convince you how great Satan's Host is, then this one will blow you away! Holy Moses (pun intended), what a killer! An onslaught of thrash speed riffing that still maintains the class of traditional metal is what this song is. Think the best of bands like Nevermore, Helstar and Symphony X. Conklin's incredible vocals again cause your jaw to drop, and not an inch behind is the slicing guitar work of Patrick Evil. This man is a sorely underrated talent! This is simply one of the best metal songs you're going to hear.

Dichotomy
Here is another outstanding track, but done in a different manner than the preceding cuts. This really sounds like prime Queensryche from the Mindcrime/Empire eras, but boosted up with bursts of hammering power riffing of Slayer intensity. It's a complex song that has a more progressive feel to it and the quality of the riffing is faultless. The band is now three for three as far as blockbuster songs go. No other album I heard in 2013 started with three songs of such impressive headbanging capability.

Of Beast and Men
This furious headbanging assault keeps the quality going, but maybe is just a little more basic and less progressive than the tunes that have gone before. It's a killer thrash-oriented attack with some stellar bass/drum interplay from Margar and Evil Hobbit (yes, really). A comparison to Nevermore is certainly warranted here, but Satan's Host is so strong that they can't be accused of aping anybody. They stand on their own. Harsh vocals arise here and Conklin is just as good at those as he is at the more melodic stuff. This may be the most brutal tune on the album.

Akoman
We finally get a breather after the preceding crushers This is a brief, haunting instrumental with a very dark and classical sound.

Reanimated Anomalies
Witch-like black metal vocals trade off with Conklin's emotive cleans, adding a sinister touch to this spine-breaker. If there is such a thing as "black power metal," this is the ultimate expression of it. This is another aggressive, pounding tune with a lot of time changes and smashing double bass drumming.

Infinite Impossibilities
A Steve Harris-like bass run kicks this off before a razor-sharp and fast guitar riff takes over. Conklin's vocals are pitched higher on this tune than elsewhere and there are more of those evil black metal rasps. The song alternates between straight-up speed metal and more epic, mid-paced crunch. It took a while for me to warm up to this one, but I recognize it as another very strong example of progressive heavy metal.

Vaporous of the Blood
I have no idea what the title means, but the song itself starts out with a slow and evil vibe interspersed with a black metal section. Patrick Evil's melodic guitar soloing here reminds me of old Mercyful Fate and even Michael Schenker. If I had to pick any one song on this album as average, I would say this is it, even though it is by no means poor. It just doesn't seem to have the pure energy of the others, even though there's some very cool riffing inserted within.

Taromati
This is another necessary break before the final concluding epic. It's a brief instrumental with an almost soothing feel.

Virgin Sails
After such a monumental album, you would expect the last track to be a mighty crescendo. And you would be right. This starts with such a magnificent powerful slow riff, it makes the hair stand up on your neck. Harry Conklin's vocal work here is beyond phenomenal. More than ever, he sounds like the great Russell Allen from Symphony X. And indeed, this song matches the very best of that great band. The number builds intensity gradually and features some super-heavy, almost death metal riffing but never losing melody either. When the speed finally kicks in, your neck will break! The tune provides a shattering climax to one of the very best metal albums of recent times!

-Mike Korn

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Rock Overdose -Janurary 27, 2014

Translated from Greek

Heavy metal to the end ... the only way someone might describe the new work of SATAN'S HOST!

To "Virgin sails" is an album that many bands would envy and begged to have their assets.

The return in 2011 of Extraordinary Gentlemen Harry Conklin (here we meet as Leviathan Thisiren), vocals certainly gave another air band.

But it is only natural that you get the band passes exceptional period formas.O Patrick Evi has a large share in this resurgence, seems to have great synthetic estrus and begets the mind of amazing ideas.

In this album then found an imaginative blend of pure heavy metal that extends from the traditional NWOBHM and American power 80s until speed and doom metal.

Throughout the fall on strong, vivid, voluminous compositions tigkarismenes in demonic guitar riffs, a pounding of Anthony Lopez on drums, the Robust participation Margar on bass and of course the incomparable voice of Harry Conklin who in the days of JAG PANZER, but again proves his talent, either staright heavy pieces or even in dark places that the band always loved to write.

Truly dyskkolo to find some weakness in disko.Ola kylane harmoniously link the traditional with the modern is impeccable manner, the songs get stuck in the wall, the musicians playing priests, production is adjusted to the sound of the band and the metal flows abundant in every note.

So things are just, the "Virgin sails" is a disc that will adequately satisfy any fan of metal and even in broad gkama.Kai is my opinion that will not only satisfy but will excite.

-Panos Warlord Bougalis

Rating: 85/100

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Mortem Zine -Janurary 25, 2014

Translated from Czech

ENGLISH SUMMARY- This is an excellent album. "Virgin Sails" has the full power to entertain all the way from its very first minute to its final riff and drum beat. Satan's Host on their eighth full-length abound with musical soundness and their aged maturity just adds to their metal devotion. Their music capitalizing on the deep heavy roots as well as on their extreme metal progress of the mid-period hits within me a timeless pedestal. Would you expect a bit of devilish flavour here, be sure that the devil is a hidden tempter. And that this band can handle him with care, just as their metal is heavy like hell.

North American heavy metal scene comes alive again loudly . I mean its undercurrents , which were not writing in large formats and hear the beat radio . From there, the Yankee "true heavy" spawn last year noticeably sprouted three really big, healthy plate. Detroit debut album Borrowed Time and Richmond's Volturi in the last weeks and months to almost disengage . A trio for me without ceasing draft boards also include "Virgin Sails " novelty far sharper těžkotonážníků SATAN 'S HOST . While predatory writers from Borrowed Time and Volturi could at this point seem somewhat gone soft , word of oatcake devilish elders on page zaprodaného zine without a doubt belongs. Denver is a colossus of their memorable race also attaches heavy as hell black fuel.

Discussing the history of SATAN 'S HOST is the long elbow . During his more than thirty-six years released eight albums in the world , suffered a downturn devadesátkový a pair of stylish somersault. They grew up on the classic heavy metal, seal off the extreme wave and coarsened in death metal surf to then find Revival style that complimented everything during his time learned. The aboriginal band was active in today's SATAN 'S HOST vocalist Harry Conklin acting as Leviathan Thisiren and guitarist Patrick Evil telling you . Those are the main engine of the band 's compositional skills , which draws modernism and settled sludge of the past and goes to all that has nešizený metal tang . As a result, it is far from black metal. Yet it is under heavy jacket all its a setup unsettling aura of a fiery anger . Whether you're a grown-up džískaři , beholding in the dark or affectionately scroll oppositely aspects of life beyond the grave , you have a chance to get your "Virgin Sails " will find and get you zacloumá .

Thus , as the album basically firmly established in the NWOBHM propagated pokes corners and can often be pretty damn trick , it is up provocatively colorful and musical story still has a fresh story and momentum. Decked out power tunes here to let suffocating crush metal mush else again extended to unylého , protracted traipse . Still comes something that requires your attention and pushes out of place. Guitar wit powerfully dominates the structure of the tracks . And prostřených maidenovských riff pulls its height dickinsonské incredibly colorful Conklin . Perhaps more than Iron Maiden frontman recalls another of the greats , Ronnie James Dia . Build Harry Conklin alongside these big names is not at all cloudy . The "Virgin Sails " everything indicates that it is a heavy metal singer par excellence. In vain I wonder who of contemporary vocalist across genres so I was able to bewitch . Conklin music SATAN 'S HOST completely dominated . Košata it in vyzpívaných bunch, its rough surface in seconds and death metal devil sows evil , where the bursting burned her country . The power of recording further enhanced natural , nepřiškrcená heavy production. It lets hear everything that is needed, in gentleness, firmness , burácivých bases and letting one's hair Heights. Joy to listen to and be carried away . Such materials such SATAN 'S HOST on its eighth řadovce Weigh , to build a metal idols .

I have nothing rebuked. "Virgin Sails" I enjoy from the first to the last minute. SATAN'S HOST health musician and peddles in his years of maturity and their present-day time lapse heavy metal you found this board, at least for me, its timeless place. And while away the darkness nebafne on the first command, you should know that the Devil is the seducer. And these masters zatěžkané brilliantly melodic knows how to do it.

-Razn Agul

Rating: 10/10

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The Metal Observern -Janurary 18, 2014

Satan's Host is an illustrious blackened heavy metal band created in 1977. They've hovered in various incantations since their formation, but always with the band's creator, Patrick Evil on guitars. The band's debut release, Metal From Hell, came out in 1986 with Leviathan Thisiren on vocals, who is better known as Harry "The Tyrant" Conklin from the legendary Colorado based heavy metal act Jag Panzer. I'll admit that I'm a huge Jag Panzer fan, and have been since the release of their MacBeth inspired Thane to the Throne release in 2000. It's through Jag Panzer that I even stumbled across Satan's Host and I always thought it was odd that a vocalist like the Tyrant would sing for a black metal band. Little did I know, then, that the band had already released a legendary album in the form of Metal From Hell, which I know hold in sentimental regard.

In 2011, the metal world was dealt a blow with the announcement of Jag Panzer's disbanding. This was the second break up of Jag Panzer (the first being between 1988 and 1994) and after the exceptional Scourge of the Light, I was more than a little upset that the band was bowing out. Unbeknownst to me, Conklin had already re-joined forces with Satan's Host in 2010. After learning that news, I was ecstatic to hear that Satan's Host was releasing a new album with Conklin at the helm, By the Hands of the Devil. And what a freaking album that was, filled to the brim with heavy riffing, blast beats and trem picking underneath the soaring, anthemic vocals of Conklin.

Returning, once again with Conklin on vocals, Satan's Host dropped their eighth full length album through Moribund Records, titled Virgin Sails. As good as By the Hands of the Devil truly was, Satan's Host may have topped themselves once again. The opening lines of the album show the band's intent:

"I come not to send peace

But a sword to slay men

I form to the light

Creating darkness upon this earth

I am the bringer of evil"

Satan's Host have once again returned to spread their blackened gospel to the masses with the unholiest of intents. Whereas, their return to form was full of blackened atmospheres, epic vocals and scorching music, Virgin Sails does the same while buckling down with more focused songwriting and tighter riffs. Instead of blasting coupled with breaks into US power metal style, Virgin Sails sounds more like an extremely blackened traditional metal album, complete with one of Conklin's best vocal performances of his career, with soaring highs and snarling growls, as heard on tracks like "Reanimated Anomalies". There are no lulls in this album, as it's all high speed, scorching blackened metal. The riffs borrow heavily from the likes of Mercyful Fate and Venom, but are more modern and geared slightly more towards a thrashier style of modern black metal. I know genres get thrown around, but blackened power metal truly fits the bill here.

Blasting yet controlled drums that sound like the hooves of He Who Crushes Teeth and He Who Gnashes Teeth stampeding upon the oblivious masses riddle the album. The drums are precise, tight and energetic as hell, with a double bass barrage mixed with a more traditional style. The guitar riffs are tight, thrashy and oh-so-blackened. There are solid leads thrown throughout the entire album, like the bluesy solo during "Vaporous Blood" or the scorching winding during "Island of the Giant Ants". As good as the blackened music really is, the star of the show is Harry Conklin, as his soaring vocals completely steal the show. Switching between raspy snarls and his trademark high pitched wails, he delivers one hell of a performance (pun kind of intended).

Every track on Virgin Sails is killer, with blackened metal, fiery guitar riffs and blasting drums, but there are moments that stand out. The album's title track, "Virgin Sails", shows the band opting for a slow building, epic sound with a slower, driving drum beat mixing with running double bass lines and chunky, palm muted riffing. The track continuously hints at something heavier and faster and doesn't really let loose until around four and a half minutes, when the drums just take off into warp speed and the guitars fly into fast paced trem picking, before building into the best solo on the album, which borrows heavily from Iommi's playbook, but it fits so well alongside the blasting drums.

When I think about my favorite metal genres, there is power metal and black metal. Hands down those are my favorites, so it's almost a dream come true to have a band like Satan's Host so expertly weave the two together. The music is ferocious and the vocals are stellar. Virgin Sails shows Satan's Host at their peak and as one of the most devastating forces to be reckoned with on this side of the Atlantic.

Rating: 9/10

-Shawn

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Metalmania-Magazín -Janurary 08, 2014

Translated from Slovak

Colorado band Satan's Host has been active on the scene since 1977. In 1988 ceased activity in 1994 went back. Released his debut in 1986 and he was named Metal from Hell. Between 1987-1999 released 2 EP with names and Midnight Wind In Articulo Mortis. Subsequently came more albums and they are: Archidoxes of Evil (2000), Burning The Born Again (2004), Satanic Grimoire: A Greater Black Magic (2006), Great American Scapegoat...666 (2008), Power ~ Purity ~ Perfection ... 999 ( 2009), By the Hands of the Devil (2011), Celebration: For the Love of Satan (2011) and Virgin Sails (2013).

The latter continues in the spirit of By The Hands Of The Devil, but still coherent. Hear it on the band looked in the depths of his soul and it is so good. As is expected from them is full of aggression, darkness and the devil. I recommend you use it to scare Batman church : D:-D While listening to songs drastically alter the formula is refined and sharpened. I find it more or less as a shift to the traditional power metal. Singer Harry "The Tyrant" Conklin at all times admirably shows the variety of styles, once growling, screaming, and once again sings. Reminds combination Dia, Bruce Dickinson, Andy Deris, King Diamond and Abbath.

Songs such as Cor Malifecus, Island of the Giant Ants and Infinite Impossibility an example of how it should look decent power metal. :) The album also includes two instrumentals -: Akoman and Tarom.

Satan's Host able to use his ability to use songs to human memory. Can not forget the great vocal háčiky.Podľa me are unstoppable, the album is excellent. Pleasant when it rests. I recommend this album to listen to!

-Famiine Killjoy

Rating: 4.5/5

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Metalhead.IT -Janurary 07, 2014

Translated from Italian

The Satan's Host Leviathan Thisiren (Harry Conklin) on vocals are a guarantee. A guarantee made more effective by the immortal Patrick Evil and his guitar. A guarantee of a heavy metal thematically oriented black metal, passing through all the doom. "Virgin Sails" is an album soon, naughty, obscene, anti-religious and damn powerful. Just read the first verse of opener "Cor Malifecus - Heart of Evil", to understand the intentions, a verse that translated sounds like "I did not come to bring peace - but a sword to kill men - I form the light - That creates darkness on this earth - I am the bringer of evil. " If a sentence like this excites you, and if the true heavy metal makes you mad, then "Virgin Sails" might be the album you are looking for. Ten songs (eight actual), fifty five minutes of evil, gospel dark, demonic intent. Musically it is a heavy metal gorgeous, with different times furious, intense, wicked. The singer is epic and obscene at the same time, and his voice and his performance contribute to that feeling esoteric oriented to the underworld that listening to the disc breaks. Perverse "Dichotomy". Powerful, urgent, solemn the beautiful "Of Beast and Men." All songs full of excellent technique, guitars that reach to the ends of thrash, a frenetic drumming that does not neglect the use of double. Ill also be the voice that comes at a great growl, the gritty "Infinite Impossibilities", with that riff that manages to wink at death metal. In the name of the unspeakable glory impaled the huge title track, featuring a heavy riff made more intense by developing interesting ideas and a solo irresistible. Superb "Vaporous of the Blood," pulled, bad, full of anger, growl, power ... the perfect mix of power and black ... and are in fact decidedly Power Black Metal, Satan's Host, and that is how you define it. Or rather, a heavy metal deeply tied to historical themes, Satan, the beast, the magic number 666. Are there since 1977, albeit with a few breaks. They are veterans of the metal, are experts in that evil message that probably has approached many of us in this musical genre. "Virgin Sails" is the celebration of the power of evil, the occult. An anti celebrated with religious music of the highest quality.

-Luke Zakk

Rating: 8/10

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Metal Italia -Janurary 06, 2014

Translated from Italian

Yet another metamorphosis is done in house Satan's Host. If you already with the previous "By The Hands Of The Devil" the band had prepared the way for a return to sound less extreme and more related to the power epic stars and stripes, with the new "Virgin Sails' round the way, going to marry in toto instances ottantiane mindful of the heroes of the time. The change name and surname: Harry Conklin. The return to the formation of the singer, ex-Jag Panzer, he advised (correctly) to the good Patrick Evil adapt the songwriting uvula powerful Leviathan Thisiren (Conklin, of course). Then, the scores are abandoned completely death-black that had characterized the central part of the career of ours, although the songs have maintained an aura rather obscure and luciferin. Songs but now move freely between power metal, thrash and epic, citing the obvious Jag Panzer, but also Cirith Ungol and God Frankly, we say that the operation has led to an album more than good but much less personal and efficient predecessors, though - we repeat - this was the only way to take full advantage of that monster talent Conklin. The first two tracks actually forbidden to leave the complexity of the arrangements and structures for perfectly designed and executed. Long, evocative and powerful, "Cor Maleficus - Heart Of Evil" and "Island Of The Giant Ants" certainly do not regret what has been, far from it! The epic is used to generate the atmosphere of war, completely subservient to power heavy scaffolding of the highest order, handled superbly by the rhythm section and topped off by the evidence of the six strings Evil (never particularly nostalgic) and a very expressive Conklin. Already, followed by "Dichotomy" we are witnessing a simplification and a reduction of the too-sharp sound, that Our approach to a kind of dark and complex version of the God of the late eighties. "Reanimated Anomalies" attempts a recovery of minimum scores more extreme, but it all boils down to a test of skill of Evil Little Hobbit behind the drums and nothing more. "Infinite Impossibilities" is pure metal Maiden, bastardized by proto black lashes to make it less blatantly similar to the work of Iron Maiden, and "Vaporous Of The Blood" as part of the mid discrete time rather meditated and melodic, and then evolve into a power thrash without shame nor praise. In conclusion, here comes the title track, which takes up a taste for the epic explicit in its tracks for opening, closing and then a circle where Satan's Host placing both lights and shadows. Also called the artwork of Joe Petagno and production by Dave Otero (both are not to be considered among their best works), we can only warmly recommend "Virgin Sails" for lovers of eighties metal, knowing, however, that the Satan's Host better than they themselves have given confrondandosi with very different sounds

-Luca Filisetti

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Musik Reviews.de -Janurary 06, 2014

Translated from German

Error number one: Harry Conklin regularly forgotten in the list of the five hottest metal singer. Error number two: SATAN'S HOST to ignore because of their silly image and crude style name "Power Black Metal". Now it's over with the errors: "Virgin Sails", the eighth studio album by the underground legend, offers furious power metal at its best.

That the band a little sitting between chairs and despite a nearly 30-year career never reached the level of awareness of Conklin's master tape JAG PANZER, one has to answer to a not very small proportion itself. The flirtation with satanic content has long been not an effective means more to make yourself interesting, and just as the critics many other fans will also have been skeptical because of the style Description: Power Metal fans with black metal allergy were of the prospect of raging blast beats scared, black metal fans as well by the prospect of heroic power metal anthems.

After about 25 times will consumption of "Virgin Sails" can in any case be noted: the proportion of black magic is relatively straightforward, at best, "Reanimated Anomalies" enters the Black Metal clear in appearance, on the other nine gods gifts, it is especially powerful Power Metal, which is the focus - and that is a turn supported by the almost unbelievably intense vocal performance Harry Conklin, on the other hand by an equally sensational guitar work, the grim and nasty sounds a whole corner than for example with JAG PANZER, to which the listener of course always have to think - not only because of the same singer, but also because the song structures often reminiscent of the power metal legend. However, the total hardness is already much higher.

CONCLUSION: No, at this point should not be defined, the term "power metal". But what SATAN'S HOST celebrate on "Virgin Sails", is about 1.5 million times more "Power Metal" than what is to be sold today with us trötenden keyboard fanfares and ends swaying choruses from Scandinavia or Germany as such. "Virgin Sails" offers ALL what makes Heavy Metal: Riffs without end, without end panache, heaviness without end - and to top it off a incredibly sexy singer. The only mistake the critic must be chalked up now: that he has "Virgin Sails" not included in the personal top 10 list of 2013. It must have been hopefully the last error in terms of SATAN'S HOST.

-Lothar Hausfeld

Rating: 13/15

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Metal.de -Janurary 05, 2014

Translated from German

SATAN'S HOST are a rarity in metallic cosmos. Emerging from the immeasurable fundus of the U.S. Metal, the first album ("Metal From Hell") came the band in 1986 to market and could in the underground, despite an underground production, recorded a moderate success. This was partly due to the sophisticated song material, the tape head Patrick Evil composed, to a considerable extent but also to the voice of Harry 'Tyrant' Conklin (JAG PANZER / TITAN FORCE). The frontman said goodbye after the release of the plate and pushed back until 2011 to SATAN'S HOST. The second result of this renewed collaboration goes by the name "Virgin Sails" and is available to other plants of the band in every way.

On the contrary even, for "Virgin Sails" still sounds a bit more homogeneous than the predecessor. Whether to have the fact that the band has the excursions towards black metal in favor of a restructuring in the direction of Death, or Thrash completed Metal, wherein the base further power metal is called (in the American sense) or whether the two protagonists as a songwriting duo have grown even further, I can not answer final. The fact is that the musical potpourri that songs like the opener "Cor Malifecus - Heart Of Evil", "Reanimated Anomalies", the title track and "Island Of The Giant Ants" is based on fresh and new sounds. SATAN'S HOST succeeds in throughout the different styles skillfully and thoughtfully to link, so you always have to be prepared for new twists within the songs as a listener. Patrick Evil rages, without reference to the conventions look for, at his guitar out there that is a real pleasure. In a through ball such, the other band members have no choice but to lay a performance in a class on the dance floor. Above all, the Tyrant, lying on "Virgin Sails" one of the best vocal performances of his career - both emotional as melodic and aggressive. To respond to individual songs in detail, would be a crime against the body of work that should be enjoyed only full-length due to his charisma and his intensity.

You could still ellenlang philosophize about this work (which probably happens at concerts / forums), but it does not work. Brought short to the point, I can state that "Virgin Sails" is the best album of SATAN'S HOST, but at the same time also has the potential to a future U.S. Metal classic in the process. The competition (even the house) must in any case quite a stretch to even begin to create equal rank here. Carved in stone nine points with a very strong upward trend.

-Colin Brinker

Rating: 9/10

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Avopolis -Janurary 04, 2014

Translated from Greek

Apparently the propersino "By The Hands Of The Devil" which marked the return of Satan's Host with their first singer again behind the microphone has continued. The complex than founder Patrick Evil has constant upheavals States, was the reason the breakup of Jag Panzer two years ago and got some very positive connotations. The Leviathan Thisiren (or else Harry "The Tyrant" Conklin) returns to the band after a memorable debut with a huge tray, and now we have the continuity with their sound to keep the distances from the black metal that characterized the intermediate course (we're talking five discs, and not few) but does not completely rejects.

And while Making a new label for each band can not Formwork completely within an already "regulated" species is nothing but ridiculous, I can not find a description more fitting than blakish heavy metal for the last two albums of Satan's Host . In the first part of the designation does not stem solely from the dark themes that follow, but the musical darkness that exude combined with bities blast of drums. In the 'other tearing, cutting American power metal with Conklin role in Insane in one of the best interpretations.

Following the path of the left hand long before it became fashionable, the Satan's Host role in bradawl show us what happens when the insanity of a psychopath acquires music personality. That the sound of "Virgin Sails" is no different from the molds (laugh and only acquires meaning that the particular word when talking to SH) of its predecessor, is fully offset by the uniqueness of their sound, which makes the need for internal development completely (well, almost) unnecessary.

Only the vain ask for forgiveness Everlasting torment

-George Theofanopoulos

Rating: 8/10

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Lords of Metal -Janurary 03, 2014

The American band Satans Host cherishes the ambition to leave a gap of a year and a half maximum between two albums. In June 2011 there was the release of was de release van By The Hands Of The Devil, so they are nicely on top of that schedule. On the previous album they said goodbye to Eli Elixer and original singer Harry Conklin (Jag Panzer) returned, under his alias Leviathan Thisiren. That provided a new dimension, but didnt force an effect on the message. The band was found in 1977 already, but their first recording dates back to 1986. And not the mention, the band lied dormant a while too.

The guitar parts of Patrick Evil are once more fat like they have always been. The production has been shifted to a somewhat higher level. The drums seems to have evolved slightly too. They sound like a seasoned death metal band, with by King Diamond inspired vocals. But still significantly different. Anyway, you will probably know what you get with Conklin in advance. The album as a whole is very solid and displays a band that has found its own musical identity. An exception to that is the track Dichotomy, which by the way I think is an interesting title, but the song itself is a step aside that i could have done without. But that is just about it. the power, the purity, the passion, the comfort you find in their violence those are the reasons to put on Satans Host. Filthy and ominous, but still in a way that it stays very soothing for a metalhead. When those factors are there, they are at their strongest. I would highly recommend the album to those who can look across the boundaries of their most preferred style, Unless you are a big Stryper. Then again, in that case this is even obligated.

Rating: 79/100

-Ramon

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The Metal Review -Janurary 02, 2014

Satan's Host is an iconic blackened heavy metal band based out of Denver, CO, that consistently pushed the genre boundaries since day one. While that doesn't seem like much of anything nowadays, consider that the band was formed in 1977. After leaving Jag Panzer in 1986, Harry "Tyrant" Conklin released the Host's debut album, Metal From Hell, pleasing fans of heavy metal and extreme metal right off the bat. After a significant break, the band returned to music in 1994 and despite a few lineup changes here and there, is still a force to be reckoned with as Conklin leads the way with those soaring vocals that haven't aged a day.

In November 2013, the Host released their 8th full length album Virgin Sails to the eager ears of the masses, excited for yet another album full of blast beats and groovy riffs, all topped off with high soaring vocals. While I personally loved their previous album, 2011′s By the Hands of the Devil, Virgin Sails proves to be a much tighter release with dark and atmospheric songwriting, and genuinely haunting melodies.

Kicking off the album is the track "Cor Malifecus – Heart of Evil" where Conklin claims to be 'the bringer of Evil' and the song lives up to the task with rattling harsh vocals, communicating well with the crisp cleans and great, moving guitar lines. Throughout the song, I repeatedly got the chills from the amazing production and vocal layering giving the band the musical depth they've always craved. While on the topic of great vocal work, though you could argue we should discuss each and every song, "Island of the Giant Ants" is a catchy and melodic, yet dark and downright creepy tune with a great, epic chorus. Touching on the lie that is 'freedom' the lyrics are also very personal and intelligent. Honestly, as a female it's upsetting I can not sing that high to sing along, but I still try!

One of my favorite songs on the album is "Of Beast and Men", pushing it's way to one of my top songs of 2013 as I just can not get over the vocal patterns and fantastic lyrics. The song is amazingly written from all sides and is the catchiest tune on the album. Patrick Evil's guitar work is phenomenal and dynamic, pulling from all edges of the metal world from speed metal to thrash to black metal and back. Some of my favorite guitar work (with wonderful bass features as well) is in the track "Infinite Impossibilities" which has a very straight forward heavy metal sound with pulsing riffs and drums. Wrapping the album up is the title track "Virgin Sails" that is the most bone-chillingly eerie composition on the album. Musically it is extremely dynamic, bordering on the lines of doom metal, and features fantasy-based lyrics of the darkest seafarers around.

The album as a whole is insanely varying in composition, tempo, and imagery. It's an entertaining listen from the first seconds to the last, with no dull moments in between. Sure, it's no Metal From Hell but it's still outstanding on it's own. I personally can not wait to see where the band goes from here because their progression throughout their career has been nothing short of extreme metal greatness.

Rating: 4.5/5

-Mattie Jensen

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Battle Helm -December 28, 2013

Wow, it must be Christmas – not just one, but two presents from two classic eras of metal! Moribund Cult were one of the most regarded underground labels back in the 90s, and whilst I'm not sure what happened to them over the years it's certainly great to see their return with high priest Odin still commanding! If that wasn't enough then a release from 80s cult band Satan's Host is definitely enough to send fans of US occult metal into immediate worship at the mere mention of these gods!! Although formed back in the late 70s by guitarist Patrick Evil who later hooked up with Leviathan Thisiren, aka Harry "Tyrant" Conklin (Jag Panzer, Titan Force) Satan's Host released their first album "Metal From Hell" in 1986 to huge underground acclaim. Mixing a variety of styles from late 70s heavy occult rock to 80s US Metal to speed metal with lyrics based on Satanism and fantasy, Satan's Host encompass a quarter of a century's worth of true metal history in the breathtaking metallic majesty of songs like ' Vaporous of the Blood', 'Of Beast and Men' and 'Island of the Giant Ants'. Bringing the band full circle to its beginnings, Conklin as usual adds in his stupendous vocals, on the one hand giving King Diamond a serious run for this money in the wailing stakes while adding his own dark bestial style during others to suit the equally tempestuous mood of the music, varying from epic to operatic to racing fast. Keeping time magnificently is Anthony 'Evil Hobbit' Lopez, who is ever the classic metal drummer, mixing his speed with precision and technicality to add both faithful backing as well as creative flair to the already rich sound of Satan's Host. If you want to know what pure heavy metal in all its glory sounds like then look no farther than "Virgin Sails"!

-Shan Siva

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Misantropia Extrema -December 27, 2013

Translated from Portuguese

"By The Hands Of The Devil" album released in 2011 by Satan's Host, brought two new weights: the return of vocalist Leviathan Thisiren (also of Jag Panzer) and hence the merger of U.S. power metal of the first phase of the band's career with the black / death metal albums of the 2000's as "Satanic Grimoire: A Greater Black Magick '. "Virgin Sails", the new proposal of the quartet, this recipe is perfect. For those unaware, the genesis of Satan's Host is the second half of the 70's and, despite having been inactive between 1988 and 1994, when the group engages in heavy / power metal of American flavor, it does so with authority and knowledge cause. If we add the flavor and intensity of such death / black metal, given by occasional blastbeats and more aggressive vocalizations, as well as a work of riffs that stand out, we have an approach that combines the best of both worlds Metal - Classic and Extreme - practically flawless. Obviously, the most epic voice Leviathan Thisiren leaves soon fans of Jag Panzer sighed, but "Virgin Sails" returns to show, through a handful of well composed and powerful songs with certain stylistic arguments all the right places, which the Satan's Host are a very unique musical entity. Probably one of the most unjustly neglected of the current scene, by the way.

Rating: 4/5

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Cross-Fire.de -December 25, 2013

Translated from German

This time the oldschoolers start with minor riffs, and even curing technically must not expect Weichspülerei. Satan's Host is one of the playgrounds of probably the best metal singer alive, acting here under the pseudonym Leviathan Thisiren. "Cor Malifecus-Heart Of Evil" is the nasty opener, where the vocals already present equal to the whole range of retrievable octaves. Made famous were the clean vocals by its volume, where especially the light tube is greatly appreciated. In "Reanimated Anomalies" it is also sometimes unclean, an unusual facet for Harry. There are also more riffbreite ass-kicker land than in Jag Panzer, finally were Satan's Host times more black-and death technically go. Who likes his Metal with a bit more of everything, is just right at the iron hand from Colorado. The penetrating deep tones of her previous album "By The Hands Of The Devil" hammer now somewhat homogeneous in the baller ends overall sound that a larger than average force must be already certified.

-Joxe Schaefer

Rating: 8/10

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Metal Kaoz -December 25, 2013

SATAN'S HOST happens to be one of those bands that never really broke the boundaries of the underground scene being a well-hidden secret among all those metalheads who like to search deeper for 'that' special album. And without doubt the return of Harry Conklin (a.k.a. Leviathan Thisiren) behind the mic managed to draw more attention after the really promising performance at 2010's edition of 'Keep It True' festival. Still, there were a couple of question marks circling above SATAN'S HOST because we have seen how the story ends when a past member rejoins a band. In this case though, SATAN'S HOST have already released the second album after the return of Leviathan Thisiren that goes by the title "Virgin Sails".

In case you're wondering if SATAN'S HOST have managed to create an equally good album with "By The Hands Of The Devil", let me tell you that they haven't. And that is because they walked some extra yards to deliver a better one. Yeah, you can indulge your need for some blackened and epic Thrash with the impressive "Cor Malifecus - Heart Of Evil". This is far from a simple Black Thrash song having a thick structure with lots of riffs, a hearty evil atmosphere and, on top of everything, Conklin's flawless and multi-character singing. Be ready to see your jaw dropping during the fast break of this song and keep the area around you clear because there will be some seriously headbanging following the powerful double bass drum action and the awesome lead guitar assault. You should also keep some energy for the perfect-for-mosh-pit ending that will give you the final blow. Seriously, this is a powerful opener and it took me many replays before moving to the next track, since every listening revealed something new to like. Things get even better with the next bass-driven (love its sound during the mid-tempo start) "Island Of The Giant Ants" that directs some of the spotlight to the lead guitar action that soon enough accelerates the tempo reaching Thrash speeds.

It is true I can spend many words talking about this album that has a lot to offer after a decent amount of spins because the song-structures have many layers to peel off with tons of great riffs, granite solid rhythm section and all those faster breaks offering quality headbanging time. A perfect example is "Of Beast And Men" that starts as mid-tempo with Conklin's trademark wailing-singing before entering the Thrash realm spearheaded by the yet-again killer main riff. And let's not forget the dominating presence of the bass guitar that shines under the most-fitting sound production. You can enjoy more bass-guitar action in "Infinite Impossibilities" that claimed the title of the album's ultimate highlight from the very first spins, with the ton-hammer crushing rhythm, the hearty snare-drum sound and the kind of evilness most of the nowadays Black Metal bands have absolutely no clue how to create. Yes, this is the definition of Blackened Thrash and has nothing to do with the mish-mash of blast-beats and groovy rhythm sections many of us mistaken as good stuff.

There is no weak song in "Virgin Sails" and, in fact, you should keep your guard up during the entire listening time because the title track drops the curtain with a bang. The bone-crushing Doom-like tempo (yeah, the bass guitar shows the way) underlines the term 'epic' before lifting the foot off the breaks leading this one to a faster second half as the guitar solo takes over (pay attention to another great riff here). I am sure "Virgin Sails" will get into many end of the year lists, pushing its way right in the photo-finish, so it will be an unforgivable mistake to let this one slip by. Let' s hope for a full US tour during 2014.

Rating: 8/10

-Dimitris Kontogeorgakos

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Last Rites -December 23, 2013

"Nine out of ten lead singers agree that the vocalist is the most important member of the band."

It's a variation upon the age-old joke about singers, but there is some truth to it. Sure, a band is ultimately the sum of its parts – no one can deny that, although some singers always try. For better or worse, in most examples, the singer is the literal mouthpiece of the band, the frontman, the focal point. It's true that even a great vocalist can't salvage a total disaster, but often, the inverse is equally true: A great singer can take an average band and push it towards transcendence.

For an example of just that, look to Satan's Host's dramatic late-career (re-) transformation from mediocre black/death outfit to first-class eeeeevil power metal band.

Granted, it's less of a bizarre transition than you'd think, as the parenthetical prefix above would indicate: Formed back in the 1970s, Satan's Host began as they've ended up. Back then as again now, they featured Harry "Leviathan Thisiren" Conklin on the mic, in both instances freshly departed from Jag Panzer. The original Satan's Host trotted out one obscure early US power-trad record in 1986's Metal From Hell…

… And then took fifteen years off, returning as a blackened death-ish outfit, with some inklings still of the classic metal that spawned them. For five records in nearly ten years, L.C.F. Elixir replaced Conklin. Elixir's growl was a standard one, and the band's earlier epic, theatrical heavy metal magic was lost in the process. Previously dangerous and eeeeevil, their lyrical devotion to Satan was less interesting in the decade-long eeeeeviler-than-thou one-upmanship of the 1990s. By the 2000s, they were just another demonic, competent band in a sea of similar sounds.

But then the Leviathan returned…

The improvement between 2009's Power…Perfection…Purity 999 and 2011's By The Hands Of The Devil is drastic, and yet it's no mystery. It's a marked shift from black/death back towards a dark and aggressive power metal, but it's really just the arrival of one of metal's most gifted singers to a band that literally needed to find its voice. Conklin's range and power is top-tier, and the infusion of soaring melody and memorable hooks atop the band's respectable blackened riffing improves upon the latter ten-fold. By The Hands Of The Devil took a middle-tier band from one spectrum and transformed it into a top-tier band on another, not-so-distant track. (For anyone keeping up, a disc of re-recordings followed By The Hands, and it's one of the few such efforts that warrant exploration. The difference in the Elixir-fronted originals and the Conklin-fronted remakes shows the band's improvement undeniably.)

So, history lessons given and everyone caught up, Virgin Sails continues in the vein of By The Hands Of The Devil, but yet it feels more cohesive, more like the band has settled in. That prior album was damn good, one of my favorites of that year, but this one tops it. As expected, there's still darkness here, still aggression; it's still eeeeevil enough to frighten the church ladies. The basic formula hasn't changed drastically in this two-album run, but it feels refined, sharpened. It's a hair's-breadth closer to a more traditional power metal album than the one before it, but that's Satan's Host playing to its strength. Throughout, Conklin displays an admirable array of styles – he growls and soars and screams and sings, some unholy combination of Dio, Dickinson, and Abbath.

Tracks like "Island Of The Giant Ants," "Cor Maleficus," "Infinite Impossibilities" (with it's Maiden-worthy bass intro), and the title cut are perfect examples of how power metal should be done, with two minor exceptions – here as on By The Hands Of The Devil, these songs do tend to drag on a minute or so too long. Of the eight actual tracks on Sails (there are two sub-1:00 instrumentals), only one is shorter than 6:00, and only one other runs less than 6:30. Given the band's newfound ability to inject memorability into their songs, a bit of paring down would go a long way. And of the second exception, aside from a select few moments (see the Maiden reference above), the only things truly memorable about these performances are all vocal hooks. Given some streamlining and the injection of a few absolutely undeniable riffs, Satan's Host would be truly unstoppable.

Regardless, Virgin Sails is a very good album from a band now on its third life. Those who enjoyed By The Hands Of the Devil will absolutely want this one, and any and all new listeners looking for high-quality eeeeevil-infused power metal with grit and fury are advised to look no further.

Rating: 8.5/10

-Jeremy Witt

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Power Metal Warrior -December 23, 2013

Translated from Polish

American heavy metal back into favor, and this year we are not short of excellent albums from that part of the world. Metal Church, Attacker or Aska shown that you can proudly play the 80, you can create music still characteristic of the local scene. You can create music, which is strong, mellow tone, which is on the border of heavy / power metal and thrash metal. You can create the style in which the key role played by the charismatic lead singer of aggressive vocals or guitar parts which are aggressive and melodic at the same time. If anyone has yet to show us how to play strong, American heavy metal, it's just another cult band who in the 80s also flashed a genius. Satan's Host surely the band is and their new album "Virgin sails" shows that the American metal scene still has that something.

Although the board is full of annotations and references to the works of other bands the likes of Jag Panzer, Metal Church, Attacker or Mercyful Fate, however, "Virgin Sails" in any way loses it. Of course there are audible inspiration, but Satan's Host is faithful to his style. The power of this band lies always in Leviathan Thirisenie singer who has performed in more well-known American bands. It was his voice gives the compositions of darkness, aggression, proper American character. Patrick Evil as a guitarist creates style of the band for years and still has quite a few additional words on the composition and arrangement. Just fire up the disc to be convinced of this. It starts quite a bit because of the dark "Cor Malifecus - Heart of Evil". The album actually dominated the complex and varied compositions in which a lot is happening. Slower, a little rock "Dichotomy" and melodic "Infinite Impossibilities" with echoes Iron Maiden are the best example of this. There are also more thrash metal patents or doom metal as confirmed by the "vaporous of The Blood." Me as a fan of power metal liked at once energetic "Of Beast and Men".

Satans host has several albums to his credit, but this new "Virgin Sails" may well be the best ones to include in their careers. For fans of American heavy metal, which is a place for darkness, dirtier sound, aggressive vocals and thrash metal jam is a must. I recommend!

-Luke Frasek

Rating: 8/10

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Hardsounds -December 23, 2013

Translated from Italian

The return of the prodigal son Harry Conklin ( here under the name of Leviathan Thisiren ) behind the microphone ( for the uninitiated , uvula Titan Force and Jag Panzer ) has helped a lot to the American Satan's Host , giving them a second life and letting achieve a glowing monolith that answers to the name " Virgin Sails " . Historical information on the combos are easily found a little ' everywhere on the net and as a result we will certainly not here to dwell with sterile ruminations on the journey so far undertaken by the cult band in Denver since 1986 . What's more we want to point out is the exceptional quality of the songwriting doth almost fifty-five minutes along the length of a platter characterized by a powerful U.S. Metal , varied and never boring or long-winded and violent when required , yet melodic , articulate and catchy in equal measurement , atmospheric and never dome , whose key is to be found in two basic factors : the state of grace of the lider maximo Evil Patrick on guitar ( ispiratissimo both on a solo riff as on the side ) and the voice of inspiration Conklin , capable of superhuman extension as well as, when necessary, the most evil scream as a corollary of a theatrical expressiveness and which can not fail to bring to mind the early days of Warrel Dane . Another aspect worth mentioning is the slowdown in the recent past , which makes it possible to build complex architectures and fascinating , much more substantial than just death / black embraced by Our previous releases, as well as the plant lyric has finally shaken off the childishness linked to Satanism at all costs , getting rid of all those ridiculous and abusatissimi " Hell," "Satan ," " Evil " and anything else you can think of more tacky , leaving room for texts researched and articulated . Never a voltage drop , never a drop in tone or style, beautiful melodies , inspired solos , granite blast beats , alternating atmospheres hour epic and now threatening and gloomy : in short, are all there, but everyone, the ingredients for the perfect Metal disk that can shake you guts as well as the intellect in a hellish ( perdonateci! ) flurry of pogo , headbanging and sweat and if songs like " Island Of the Giant Ants " or " Vaporous of The Blood" (just to name a few randomly) fail in order ... Well , it means that you have not understood a thing and will probably give you better hip hop.

-Jean Marc Valente

Rating: 80/100

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Metallized -December 20, 2013

Translated from Italian

American historians Satan's Host offering one of the hybrids most bizarre scene metal can offer: born as a heavy metal band in the remote 1977 rookies only in 1986 with Metal from Hell, these musicians in Denver have opted for the black / death in the central part career and then turned to the unusual mix of power and black metal still in the phase they are going through, and that goes on our desks Virgin Sails. This is the eighth full-length for the act of Colorado, which, however, was dissolved in 1988 and reformed in 1994, releasing the second studio album, Archidoxes of Evil, only in 2000. A story, then, controversial and convoluted, not too linear a latch that is bringing a band, however, worthy of respect, however, founded by Harry Conklin, Jag Panzer former voice of between 1981 and 1985 (and then again from 1994 to 2001).

Draw power from our very epic and evocative vocal lines, while the black reproduce the riff sick, blastbeat and other dark atmospheres, maybe it's just the voice, very solemn, rhythmic and celebratory - Cor Malifecus - Heart of Evil Island of the Giant Ants, the title track are a case-to lose a bit 'of immediacy to the platter, which therefore requires several listens to be assimilated and show the good quality of music available to listeners. The band chooses to advance through means rocky times and characterized one by one to several nice riff claims. The accelerations are very few and meager, but on the other hand you will come across valuable guitar melodies, even when solo. The drumming is precise and rocky, in step with the times, while the voice strives also to some acute. A piece like the opener Cor Malifecus - Heart of Evil summarizes the entire style full of full-length, annexing macabre riffs, strong vocals and epic blastbeat, the latter also impacting on the next Island of the Giant Ants, the six strings of Patrick Evil track solos shining and brilliant, exhibiting a nice touch, even in the generally-oriented heavy riffing, incattivendosi in isolated portions of the song (In Dichotomy you have a clear demonstration of what is said) thanks to the use of blastbeat.

The disc a little flaw 'from the point of view of the playing time (about an hour of listening is something too pretentious), with certain tracks too lengthy to give rise to a small risk of boredom. This certainly does not help that the impact of the work, as mentioned, is also affected by redundant and quite catchy vocal lines, fortunately, the band also dispenses some more direct and lively song (Of Beast and Men, Reanimated Anomalies) to revive the all, taking advantage of a few small glimpses passage vocal growl (the same Reanimated Anomalies, Infinite Impossibilities). Overall it is a good layering pieces to represent the fulcrum of the work, which definitely enjoys a great job of songwriting and execution of technique impeccable

-Unknown

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Dead Rhetoric -December 20, 2013

Satan's Host is a band that has weathered many storms since their formation in 1977. Their classic1986 debut Metal From Hell featured Leviathan Thisiren aka Harry "Tyrant" Conklin (Jag Panzer) before he went to form Titan Force. The band's sole remaining original member, guitarist Patrick Evil, carried the band on from their state of classic heavy metal to a jaunt in black/death metal to their current form of blackened power metal, rejoined by the legendary Conklin.

Virgin Sails is the follow-up to 2011's By the Hands of the Devil (which marked the return of Conklin) and shows the band reaching for new heights. Their merger of traditional heavy metal, power, thrash, and black metal is executed so seamlessly it begs the question why more bands aren't following suit. Full of blackened atmospheres, brutal riffing with sweeping solos, militant drum work, and of course, Conklin's soaring vocal performance. Some songs like "Dichotomy" reek of classic NWOBHM, while others like "Of Beast and Man" push the envelope almost to the point of death metal in their barbarism. With the remaining tracks, you'll get anything and everything in between, but it never feels like a "toss in everything but the kitchen sink" mess so much as masters of their craft finely weaving everything together in a way that few can.

It cannot go without mention of the Tyrant's vocal performance on this album. For a man of such presence in the metal scene over the years, his work here rivals his best in any band he's shared the stage with. His range is impeccable, from his charismatic power metal bravado, to some occasional raspy vocals ("Reanimated Anomalies") and falsettos ("Vaporous of the Blood"), elevating what would be a great record to an outstanding one.

Virgin Sails is the type of heavy metal album that should find some appeal with everyone. Power, black, progressive, death…it seems there's nothing Satan's Host can't incorporate into their music and not sound better for it. An excellent example of a band that has grown better with age.

Rating: 9/10

-Kyle McGinn

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Rockpages.gr -December 19, 2013

Translated from Greek

Satan's Host is most definitely one of the most qualitative US Metal cult underground outfits with legions of loyal fans around the globe. This is, after all, the band that gave to the metal world the timeless "Metal From Hell" back in 1986 and it continues to deliver the goods –in an astonishingly productive way, I must say- from 2000 and onwards. Clearly the noticeable difference in the last couple of albums is the presence of the great Harry Conklin (Jag Panzer, Titan Force) behind the mic. His reunion with Satan's Host was more than welcomed by the metal community.

Satan's Host has the unique charisma of wonderfully blending power metal with the black metal genre thus creating a quite interesting hybrid that doesn't alienate either the power metal fans or the blacksters out there. "Virgin Sails" follows the same path as its predecessor ("By The hands Of The Devil") without much musical differentiation. In Your Face Heavy Metal without any sign of compromise and with Conklin's voice at the usual high level. Lyrically speaking, the band once again revolves around the realm of fantasy while the standout moments of the album are definitely the majestic opening track "Cor Malifecus – Heart of Evil" and "Reanimated Anomalies" (with the brilliant intro).

With "Virgin Sails", Satan's Host keeps on sailing on its remarkable journey in the underground heavy metal seas! Let's hope that we will soon have the chance and pleasure of witnessing their live show in Greek soil.

Highlight: Satan's Host's singer is called Leviathan Thisiren...this is Conklin's stage name.

-Sakis Nikas

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Rockhard -December 19, 2013

Translated from Greek

The 25 years between the "Metal from hell" and the previous album "By the hands of the devil" would you say that magically disappeared with the new return of Harry "Tyrant" Conklin (JAG PANZER, TITAN FORCE ) . A voice that only a cry of triumph could be classified judging by the initial hearings of the brand new "Virgin sails". Keeping the black subjects and their dynamics death / blackened metal audio featuring middle their period, SATAN'S HOST playing full- attack without bridle speeds and with Harry Conklin impressing permanently with the ability of the voice of which is not stops unfolds in air. In honor of the Patrick Evil, guitarist and mastermind of the band seems to have seized the opportunity arose of having this again next great singer and the songs heard in "Virgin sails" overflowing with inspiration , passion and hot metal. Sometimes things are very simple. The heavy metal sounds in "Virgin sails" rarely will succeed come from youngsters and, in this final might be and healthy. Seeing the impact that had and forgotten by God previously HELL, the current form of SATAN'S HOST would not say that second to the extent that they do not taste the small share of recognition that their analogei.

-Kostas Alatas

Rating: 7/10

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Streetclip.tv -December 16, 2013

Translated from German

With `By The Hands Of The Devil` succeeded SATAN'S HOST two and a half years ago to bridge the gap between U.S. Power Metal and Black Metal. A similar combination of scabby riffs, blast beat attacks and, ahem, divine singing talent had the metal world not heard until then. And now, time for celebration of love, the Colorado minions around guitarist / composer Patrick Evil and Harry Conklin (aka Leviathan This Irish) back. `Virgin` Sails called the new album (cover art once more from MOTÖRHEAD Hofzeichner Joe Petagno). And to anticipate it: The part hisses and sparkles almost on par with the powerful predecessor. Even the issuing Achtminüter 'Cor Malifecus (At The Heart Of Evil)' leaves no doubt about the primal force of the band. Such sublime vocal lines have except "Tyrant" Conklin only very, very few singers of the metal universe on the pan. Raise your fist and durchgebangt - a large caliber like the majestic opener of the 2011 disc. With 'Island Of The Giant Ants' comes the next catchy tune on the hoof. What is striking: SATAN'S HOST total gone a little off the accelerator, the songwriting seems more mature, the stick passages are used more sparingly. Friends of Chopped should still get their money, on double bass, there is certainly no shortage. A hallmark of the change between clean vocals and nagging has become harder NEVERMORE or KING DIAMOND send their regards. The guitar sound - at the controls was back Dave Otero - is a piece of bass-driven and thus polynuclear than on 'By The Hands Of The Devil' real failures are examined for 'Virgin Sails' even after ten listening in vain, a grippy Metal song like' Fallen. Angel 'from the previous unfortunately. , Dichotomy 'comes the DIO bow nor the next, but without reaching the class of this cream piece. With the final SATAN'S HOST title song, however, have beaten a Epic chunks from the rock that Thunders is one of the absolute highlights of the nearly 30-year band history through the finish. Why still no better rating for 'Virgin Sails' pops out? Now, for the album length of 55 minutes is missing from the material then something to change. A track more variability in the riffing (as of old Conklin bands lead by example) is the task for the next time. The devil has still room for improvement.

-Ludwig Krammer

Rating: 8/10

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Power Metal.de -December 15, 2013

Translated from German

Another masterpiece of exceptional band , the U.S. Metal and Black Metal united.

The fact that we have since the return of Sangeswunders Harry Conklin to do it with SATAN 'S HOST from the U.S. state of Colorado at the latest with a very exceptional band , attempt to assess the role as a link and bridge between the classic U.S. Power Metal and extreme Black Metal overstated can , I have already explained to you in the last two releases of the band well enough , so I'm more this time would like to focus on the idea of the song material and the overall character of the album.

Because yes, the band is itself productive and delivers with " Virgin Sails " is already the third disc since the reunion with Harry Conklin on what again (like all works of the band since 2007) on the U.S. label Moribund Records appear and thus in Europe but unfortunately only on import routes is available . But the record company once again delivers good work and brought the fans of the fiendish Receptionist an album with great Petagno artwork , pristine sound and beautiful presentation .

As for the musical content , there is on the one hand the proven and unmistakable SATAN 'S HOST mixture , on the other hand also voltage by a versatility and variety, which still exceeds the bandwidth of the previous albums and thus outweigh the fact that the surprise effect has naturally waned somewhat , then the " By The Hands Of the Devil" was hit so massive .

But we come first to the proven mix , which once again is characterized in that the band in perfection the classic U.S. Metal , they celebrated since the late seventies connects with the modern influences of extreme Metals nineties . Harry Conklin's bell bright and crystal clear vocals reigning over all , but is in great masterly arrangements accompanied by nasty screams and sinister growls . Great power metal riffs such as when something reminiscent of JAG PANZER ' Dichotomy ' will be replaced by frantic strumming attacks as ' Of Beast And Men ' dominate .

General Patrick Evils guitar style is very special, but it tends both by the mood of his seven -sided , and by the way , his riffs and leads to play very often clearly in the Black Metal field . This approach also emphasizes the rhythm section , which the often classic, metallic, or every now and again attach again even doomy driven pieces infernal blast and double bass attacks a heightened aggression level , but continue to operate to the surprise of many and blend in perfectly with the pieces .

Listen to this, once the great opener ' Cor Maleficus - Heart Of Evil' , he fascinated but with great polyphonic vocal arrangements , powerful then rolled riffs, manic outbursts of anger , and a completely malicious atmosphere full of venom , how to a band with predominantly classic , clean vocals like hardly trust . First finest Doombangerstoff gives us , however, the rhythmic , bass-heavy and characterized by evocative percussion ' Island Of The Giant Ants ' , which can do of course not without raging and chopping speed bursts , overall - presents yet more epic - especially in the triumphant chorus.

After the short instrumental ' Akoman ' presents the band with ' Reanimated Anomalies ' quite so frosty black and devastating , as she has not sounded since Harry Conklin's return. The diabolical nagging vocals are given more than half of the vocal parts , the pace is attracted throughout , the drums staged razor sharp and hacking, yes , this song is a truly great black metal work , except for the fact that today's Black Metal to to reduce the sound of the Scandinavian shaft. Fascinating here is how the band managed , so toxic and tainted aggressively to produce the drums , without producing a sterile sound. Here producer Dave Otero at Flatline Audio Studio has really done a great job .

In ' Infinite Impossibilities ' presents the band begin to moderate again , although again very quickly and not without a shot blackness in the vocal arrangements . Bassist Margar shines with great figures in the introduction , the rhythm section does a great job , the epic middle part fascinated with oriental -tinged lead melodies and a magical vocal performance Harry Conklin , and the chorus is quite simply become incredibly good. Where ' Vaporous Of The Blood' first ballad begins and vocals and lead guitar can soar as it breaks in the second major piece of hell in common upon us before an elegiac sublime Bridge follows and a renewed Black Metal attack paves the way to the towards the end, only the royal lead melodies of the guitar can put on the crown.

This brings us to the grand finale in the form of the re- launched instrumental title track , which again pulls out all the stops , the SATAN 'S HOST available . The basic character of the hymn is doomy , urgewaltig , powerful and sublime. Harry Conklin sings meaningful , expressive and emotional, with a tiny bow tions Ronnie James Dio , one might think . There are also discreet use of choirs, a little reminiscent of the JAG PANZER . On the instrumental level can again both the strings and the drums flash Stilistika some of the extreme school , but little change in the dominant , slow , hymn - epic basic character before towards the end the pace is exacerbated overall powerful.

Thus, the work ends just as magical and fascinating, as it began , so the conclusion can only be that SATAN 'S HOST " Virgin Sails " another masterpiece has succeeded in combining U.S. Power Metal and Black Metal in a manner and with a perfection as is never succeeded by another band .

-Rüdiger Stehle

Rating: 9.5/10

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HeadBangers -December 01, 2013

Translated from Spanish

Here as usual bring you the true metal to kneel and you give up worship and spit on false worshipers of evil. Satan's Host , one of the most hidden embers red hot heavy metal of the 80s, burns us this year a monumental work calcined your idols.

Home well comiquera

The band name like something out of a Roger Corman film satanic, but it is a long and interesting group of life such as, in a sense of Hell. The band, according to Metal Archives, dating from 1977, which places it far back in time, however can not be said that the sound itself is practicing seventies, gothic or doom. We are facing this extreme aspect of traditional metal, the darkened heavy (sometimes I find references to nomenclatures as blackened heavy metal) is musically we say something like Judas Priest and Iron Maiden, but with the speed of Helstar, but also equipped with a malevolence proobscurantista and anti-Christian and vocation in the style of Mercyful Fate / King Diamond which happens to be the ingredient that distinguishes him and makes him worthy of being tasted and appropriate as a founding pillar of the metal sense.

The band has gone, say, for three periods. The first from 1987 to 1988 and reached its apex with the only LP of the time, the overwhelming Metal From Hell 1986, as darkness, speed and superb musical quality were inversely proportional to the aberrant production sound that could only condemn darkness so good songs. That group was formed by Patrick Evil Satan, guitarist and founding spirit and owner of the idea and the name of Satan's Host, Belial on bass, D. Lucifer Stele to percussion and unspeakable Thisiren Leviathan (Harry Coklin known for being singer Jag Panzer among others), vocalist leaves you sitting in 3 minutes because they can not believe that such power possible in a human throat.

From 1994 to 2008, the band enjoyed a second period of activity much more fertile threw five long-playing records, an EP and a DVD, but this time in a style that fused heavy metal with death metal (if you're thinking something like Children of Bodom, you get away greatly) and the hand of his own label Black Magik Inc and then Moribund Records. This made his sound is returned under appreciated between the community is the main consumer of this kind of work. By 2010, Harry Conklin, reappeared in the band and their reentry was brutal. The band returned to the line heavy metal dark and crazed '80s with the added power of the death metal experience. In 2011 they released the excellent By the Hands of the Devil and later that year a compilation of re-recordings, Celebration for the Love of Satan: 25th Anniversary Album with a great sound and an extraordinary production that served to settle even better name in the metal under. This declining since 2013, the band comes with an even more aggressive and excellent work, the overwhelming Virgin Sails.

This is an album that for next love, because you back the best you can do metal and hate the other, because you know, before the avalanche of productions, you can not spend all the time that this album deserves. Is that the issues are so elaborate and well crafted that you know what you could hear the disc 50 times and still would find surprises. Not only that, it is one of those works that retailers when you know them, expect to hear the special tone (a riff, a change, a vocal turn) you know it's a few notes later to return to enjoy it.

The disc presents heavy metal classic in a sense, but in another, it is also something fresh thanks to Patrick Evil, guitarist and creative soul of the group, but neither knows what the metal decal or copies, create it. It has its own style and if in 80 they had had a little more luck they would have quietly achieved the status of a Mercyful Fate. Just to give an idea is like putting together the style of Judas Priest, talent for melody of King Diamond, the strength of the current Helstar, the musical ambition of Iron Maiden, Madness and Mayhem of the darkness of Bathory. A great conglomerate, but we still falls short, because in the end add up all that is not itself Satan's Host. They superb drummer Anthony Lopez whose greatest virtue seems to be the ability to change speed in tenths of seconds and do it with complete naturalness added, and Marcus Cyrus, under the pseudonym of Margar, on bass.

For topics, all are good without exception, they are all pure and quintessential heavy metal, everything is orthodoxy here but elevated to grandiose levels achieved only fundamentalism. The first, Cor Malifecus, is a great piece 7 minutes in which time and fast tempos, led by guitar virtuoso solos interspersed. The second theme, The Island of the Giant Ants, I thought it referred to some horror film series B but no, it does not, but this pattern still is faster and shorter, with the chorus line performed so loudly by Coklin. Dichotomy is at the beginning, middle rhythmic time is a good counterpoint to the two initial issues with a superb Coklin but quieter, at least for a while, because the band eventually dicide by speed metal. Of Beast and Man reminds me a bit what the 3 Inches of Blood, but with a very NWOBHM choir. Akoman is a small interlude, pretty sinister to the horror film. Anomalies Reanimated takes us a little time black / death of the band, co-leadership with a throaty voice (which really do not know who plays), is the most different from the songs on the album. Then maideniana Infinite Anomalies, one of the best songs the band has composed, epic and sentimental at the same time, perhaps the best interpretation of Coklin appears. Vaporous of the Blood takes the idea and maybe save a Dichotomy air Queensrÿche Empire, but much more guitar and at the end, as in Dichotomy, opts for something more extreme, in this case the death metal. Taromati is another brief instrumental interlude that is good rocker and a bit depressing. The album closes with the big title track of the disc. A slower, heavy with death issue at a time, three times the voice works and looks like a cross of Ripper Owens with Rob Halford at his best, singing at the same speed, as the subject approaches the end accelerates and extreme in his melodic lines.

An album that will only leave you with a smile of satisfaction headbanger at heart. Nice to see another great band that achieved an outstanding level of musical quality, we should value. Let's give a chance to this great band, life is not just Metallica and Iron Maiden, there is much more and we have to live for only hearing Enter Sandman and The Trooper (which are great songs, but not the only).

-Cesar Monterroso

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Wicked Channel.com -December 12, 2013

Colorado metal band Satan's Host is back with their 11th studio album, "Virgin Sails," and you know that means that something satanic this way comes. Issued November 19, 2013 on Moribund Cult Records, "Virgin Sails" is the follow-up to "Celebration For the Love of Satan," which contained re-recorded versions of songs spanning the band's long career.

Since Harry Conklin (aka Leviathan Thisiren) rejoined the band in 2010, the band has a new air about them; a sort of rejuvenation. This version of the band plays some serious nice songs on this release opening with Cor Malifecus – Heart of Evil, a 7 minute journey to hell led by some inspired vocals.

Island of the Giant Ants is another track that kills it from front to back with solid shred work from Patrick Evil and more of Thisiren's solid vocals. Margar's bass may have never sounded better than on this track and Anthony Lopez plays some dastardly drums.

The album continues on with some very nice songs including the power metal style of Dichotomy and the doom/death metal title track, Virgin Sails.

Overall, Satan's Host continues to show progression and rejuvenation in their sound and "Virgin Sails" is a very solid release with elements of doom metal, thrash metal, power metal and more. The band can go as far as Thisiren's vocals will take them and he appears ready to carry the band.

-Mike

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Heathen Harvest -December 12, 2013

Harry Conklin, AKA The Tyrant, is a name that has been revered on the underground metal circuit for almost as long as there's been an underground metal circuit. Best known for his work with the pioneering USPM outfit Jag Panzer, and their legendary 1984 debut album Ample Destruction in particular, fewer people realize that he got his start even earlier than that. Under the stage name of Leviathan Thisiren, he was one of the founding members of Satan's Host in 1977, a Colorado troupe who brought an evil, occultist edge to heavy metal before Venom and Mercyful Fate had started to make it cool on the other side of the Atlantic. Conklin left the band in 1988, but although they were dormant for a time, Satan's Host never really went away. Having reinvented themselves in the 90s and 2000s as a full-blown death metal band, they eventually came full circle in 2009 with Conklin reuniting with founding guitarist Patrick Evil. Virgin Sails is their second post-reunion offering following 2011's By the Hands of the Devil, and it again finds the dynamic duo offering up an inspired fusion of styles that, when you hear it, seems so obvious that you wonder why more bands aren't doing it.

How to describe the sound of Virgin Sails in generic terms? The phrase that their fans seem to have latched on to is blackened power metal, which works as well as anything, but it really is uncanny just how complete and natural this synthesis is. Patrick Evil has preserved the malevolent, assaultive vibe of the band's 2000s death metal outings such as Satanic Grimoire. At times, he opens the throttle up all the way, letting loose with flurries of trem-picking and down-tuned riffs like rocket-powered bulldozers, complete with drummer Anthony Lopez blasting away like a madman – the opening of "Of Beast and Men", for instance, wouldn't sound out of place on a record by Aborted or God Dethroned.

These moments are tempered, however, by passages of melodic articulation. There's evidence of influence from all across the metal spectrum – opener "Cor Malifecus – Heart of Evil" recalls the nervous, fluttering guitar work of Flotsam and Jetsam's early output, other moments echo the more classical NWOBHM approach of fellow 80s refugees Hell (witness the surprisingly upbeat main melody to "Dichotomy"). A delicate balancing act is maintained between brutal, heads-down riffing and dramatic, swooping leads accompanying enormous, infectious chorus hooks. Satan's Host successfully have their cake and eat it, exhibiting the best of both worlds. On the one hand, they retain the volatile spontaneity and forbidding atmosphere of extreme metal – if it doesn't sound downright dangerous the way truly extreme acts like Anaal Nathrakh do, Virgin Sails certainly doesn't sound friendly either. On the other hand, it has the rabble-rousing quality of the best stripped-down power metal. It sounds dark and menacing, but it's a darkness and menace that the listener is complicit in and empowered by, not crushed beneath. That's not to say there isn't virtue in extreme music that does set out to crush the listener, but it makes Virgin Sails a somewhat unique entity in its genre.

To wit, Satan's Host are at their best when they're at their heaviest. Among the eight full-length songs here, the only one that got a less-than-enthusiastic response from me was "Cor Malifecus" – this was partly due to its odd structure (it ends very abruptly on a passage that feels like a non-sequitur), but also on account of being inexplicably mild in moments that serve to take the air out of its sails. It's doubly unfortunate that this was the first track, as it meant that the rest of the album had to work to compensate for this lackluster first impression. It did, though, with flying colours. Particular highlights include "Reanimated Anomalies", a mean, compact little Rottweiler of a song whose middle is jammed full of all manner of fire-spitting riffs, and the epic title track which spends its first four minutes in a slow, angry churn before erupting into the most expansive solo section on the album, the perfect capstone to the record. Best of all, though, is the magnificently named "Island of the Giant Ants", which expertly transitions from a speedy introduction to a downright apocalyptic mid-paced groove, and sports a chorus and bridge that pack such a percussive punch that they make me want to headbang to the point of debilitating injury.

The catalyst for all of this, mind you, is Conklin; for all that his bandmates do right, it's the Tyrant's performance that compounds all of Virgin Sails' successes and pushes it over the edge from a good album to something close to a masterpiece. The man's been an institution in the metal world across five decades for damn good reason, and his performance here is as good as he's ever given. Not to mince words: whatever competition there may have been for the best vocal performance on a metal album in 2013, Conklin burns it to the ground and salts the fucking earth. There are only a handful of other singers active in the genre today who could exhibit the same clarity, control, assertive presence and raw power across such a broad range as he does here, and there's not a single moment he's present in the mix that isn't exponentially more effective than it would have been had his role been filled by an anonymous growler. It's positively humbling to listen to.

The result of all this is a red-blooded, whole-bodied metallic ass-kicking, the sort of stick-to-your-ribs album that one can keep coming back to for days and weeks at a time. Satan's Host have concocted a deliriously entertaining record here, one that uses its constituent elements to its fullest advantage. "Blackened power metal" is a sound that begs to be explored further – more like this, please.

Rating: 4.5/5

-Andrew

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Metal Archives -December 09, 2013

Satan's Host is an illustrious blackened heavy metal band created in 1977. They've hovered in various incantations since their formation, but always with the band's creator, Patrick Evil on guitars. The band's debut release, Metal From Hell, came out in 1986 with Leviathan Thisiren on vocals, who is better known as Harry "The Tyrant" Conklin from the legendary Colorado based heavy metal act Jag Panzer. I'll admit that I'm a huge Jag Panzer fan, and have been since the release of their MacBeth inspired Thane to the Throne release in 2000. It's through Jag Panzer that I even stumbled across Satan's Host and I always thought it was odd that a vocalist like the Tyrant would sing for a black metal band. Little did I know, then, that the band had already released a legendary album in the form of Metal From Hell, which I know hold in sentimental regard.

In 2011, the metal world was dealt a blow with the announcement of Jag Panzer's disbanding. This was the second break up of Jag Panzer (the first being between 1988 and 1994) and after the exceptional Scourge of the Light, I was more than a little upset that the band was bowing out. Unbeknownst to me, Conklin had already re-joined forces with Satan's Host in 2010. After learning that news, I was ecstatic to hear that Satan's Host was releasing a new album with Conklin at the helm, By the Hands of the Devil. And what a freaking album that was, filled to the brim with heavy riffing, blast beats and trem picking underneath the soaring, anthemic vocals of Conklin.

Returning, once again with Conklin on vocals, Satan's Host dropped their eighth full length album through Moribund Records, titled Virgin Sails. As good as By the Hands of the Devil truly was, Satan's Host may have topped themselves once again. The opening lines of the album show the band's intent:

"I come not to send peace
But a sword to slay men
I form to the light
Creating darkness upon this earth
I am the bringer of evil"

Satan's Host have once again returned to spread their blackened gospel to the masses with the unholiest of intents. Whereas, their return to form was full of blackened atmospheres, epic vocals and scorching music, Virgin Sails does the same while buckling down with more focused songwriting and tighter riffs. Instead of blasting coupled with breaks into US power metal style, Virgin Sails sounds more like an extremely blackened traditional metal album, complete with one of Conklin's best vocal performances of his career, with soaring highs and snarling growls, as heard on tracks like "Reanimated Anomalies". There are no lulls in this album, as it's all high speed, scorching blackened metal. The riffs borrow heavily from the likes of Mercyful Fate and Venom, but are more modern and geared slightly more towards a thrashier style of modern black metal. I know genres get thrown around, but blackened power metal truly fits the bill here.

Blasting yet controlled drums that sound like the hooves of He Who Crushes Teeth and He Who Gnashes Teeth stampeding upon the oblivious masses riddle the album. The drums are precise, tight and energetic as hell, with a double bass barrage mixed with a more traditional style. The guitar riffs are tight, thrashy and oh-so-blackened. There are solid leads thrown throughout the entire album, like the bluesy solo during "Vaporous Blood" or the scorching winding during "Island of the Giant Ants". As good as the blackened music really is, the star of the show is Harry Conklin, as his soaring vocals completely steal the show. Switching between raspy snarls and his trademark high pitched wails, he delivers one hell of a performance (pun kind of intended).

Every track on Virgin Sails is killer, with blackened metal, fiery guitar riffs and blasting drums, but there are moments that stand out. The album's title track, "Virgin Sails", shows the band opting for a slow building, epic sound with a slower, driving drum beat mixing with running double bass lines and chunky, palm muted riffing. The track continuously hints at something heavier and faster and doesn't really let loose until around four and a half minutes, when the drums just take off into warp speed and the guitars fly into fast paced trem picking, before building into the best solo on the album, which borrows heavily from Iommi's playbook, but it fits so well alongside the blasting drums.

When I think about my favorite metal genres, there is power metal and black metal. Hands down those are my favorites, so it's almost a dream come true to have a band like Satan's Host so expertly weave the two together. The music is ferocious and the vocals are stellar. Virgin Sails shows Satan's Host at their peak and as one of the most devastating forces to be reckoned with on this side of the Atlantic.

Rating: 90%

-The Storm I Ride

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Skull Fracturing Metal -December 01, 2013

In my formative metal years, I had always hoped that there would be bands that combined the music of more extreme styles of metal with cleaner vocals. Some bands had elements of this; certain power metal bands started incorporating blast beats, but no band had even come close to creating the sound I had hoped for. That is, until I found Satan's Host. Led by the legendary Harry Conklin (Jag Panzer), Satan's Host creates a serious blast of brutal metal with satisfying melodic overtones. It is worth mentioning, however, that this album isn't simply an amalgamation of two contrasting styles. Instead, the band also uses occasional harsh vocals, and even some rougher clean vocals. In the end, the album feels pretty natural in its transition between vocal styles.

Right from the onset, Satan's Host display a sludgy, doomy guitar tone on "Cor Malifecus – Heart of Evil". Everything about the production and presentation of "Virgin Sails" feels like it was written for fans of crushing extreme metal. The production sounds almost cavernous, with its monolithic drum and guitar sounds. The music supports this, as it doesn't simply rely on speed like most extreme metal (though there is no shortage of speed either). Instead, the opening track, for example, uses mid-paced riffs to amp up the heaviness, and let Conklin's soothing vocals hypnotize you. Other tracks, such as "Of Beast and Men", display more prototypical death metal riffs (the opening riff of this track sounds like it was inspired by Cannibal Corpse).

With 8 full songs and almost 55 minutes of material, sometimes this album meanders around. There are no doubt definitive choruses throughout the record, but Satan's Host does not conform to simplistic song structures. Instead, each song takes you on a journey through different tempos and feelings. Though this can initially be off-putting, it makes for a more satisfying experience in the long run, as there is always something new to discover on the album. With that said, I would not be averse to cutting a couple of songs. The two beginning tracks are standouts, but beyond those, none of the other songs are particularly notable.

"Virgin Sails" is not necessarily what you might expect if you've never heard Satan's Host before. It is certainly darker, yet less brutal than I expected, but overall very impressive. There is an enormous supply of riffs, as well as the necessary aggression, so it should be enjoyable to fans of nearly all style of metals. With that said, if you struggle with more extreme styles of metal, this record is by no means catchy enough to convert you.

Rating: 4/5

-Scott Dorfman

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Eternal Terror -December 01, 2013

Translated from Norwegian

From the initial estimate puts these American guys standard for which they so cleverly called Power Black Metal. This album wanders between Candlemass doom to King Diamond / Mercyful Fate satanic moods, and it does with high class and style.

Just feel is something I have often missed from BM bands in recent years. It seems like many just run on the secure and have little challenging to come by. This is not the case with Virgin Sails. This is so complex and demanding that I get carried away and left in utter darkness that hosts bid us into.

I am a little unsure of how grim these guys want to appear when the drummer calls himself Anthony Evil Hobbit, but it's really break away indifferent all the time they produce music that captivates across so many genres that they do. They are certainly black enough to easily be defined as BM, but doom influence is also so intrusive that I do not manage to leave out the parallels.

Satan's Host has really hit a nerve with the feast this time and I will play this album plenty to come.

-Lars Klingenberg

Rating: 6/6

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Heavy Metal Time Machine -December 01, 2013

Is "Virgin Sails" really a contender for the 2013 "Album Of The Year" award? That's what the promo material for Satan's Host's latest album claims. I may a few more spins of "Virgin Sails" before I'm ready to make such a bold statement, but I will concede that the latest release from vocalist Harry Conklin (Leviathan Thisiren) is damn fine. "Virgin Sails" finds a band that still sounds remarkably focused and inventive even after some 25 years or so together. That's not always easy folks, but Satan's Host, which was first active from 1977-1988 before taking a little break and reforming in 1994, certainly make it seem so! Along with ex-Jag Panzer vocalist Harry "Tyrant" Conklin the group released their excellent full-length debut, "Metal From Hell", back in 1986 and now they present a release like "Virgin Sails" that offers even the most cynical metal fan a lot of bang for their buck! Joining Conklin is original founding member/guitarist Patrick Evil and the pair of Margar (Marcus Garcia) and Evil Little Hobbit (Anthony Lopez). They are the bassist and drummer respectively and considering the fact that there are only four musicians involved here it's even more impressive how forceful and epic a release like "Virgin Sails" sounds! When I last checked in with Satan's Host it was for their reworked classic album "Celebration: For the Love of Satan". Back then (2011) I heard a band that had come full circle from power metal to near black metal and back to power metal. This new one comes across as somewhere in between classic U.S. power metal, traditional heavy metal and N.W.O.B.H.M with the black metal vibe being kept to a minimum. Harry keeps his black metal rasp/possession in check on "Virgin Sails" and as the band works their way from opener "Cor Malifecus-Heart of Evil" onward the music takes some surprising turns for the better. One cut I'd point out would be the cool "Dichotomy". Here we find Harry, who re-joined Satan's Host in 2010. channeling all thing Ronnie James Dio from his days in Black Sabbath and Rainbow to his days fronting his own band. Does that mean there's some doom present on this album? Sure, you can hear it intertwined between the album's grooves, but then again the playing of our main man Patrick Evil also recalls the finer points of "Ride The Lightning" era Metallica! The same kind of despair that "Fade To Black" still fills me is hidden in plain view on numerous cuts on "Virgin Sails" and it's to his credit that Patrick Evil can make you envision Metallica while you also picture the likes of Merciful Fate, Candlemass, Satan and even Danzig! If there is any downside to be found here it would have to be that while the tracks overall do show a band at their prime and playing better then ever, "Virgin Sails" features a lot of recycled ideas. At times the album starts to blur and unless you were to listen to this one a dozen plus times over it would be hard to pick out some of these cuts from other cuts. Still, it's a minor qualm and it's not enough for me to fill in the least bit disappointed with the new Satan's Host disc. It might not be the 2013 "Album Of The Year" for me, but it's still a release that should be wholeheartedly embrace by the metal community at large!

-Andy

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Rockway.gr -November 13, 2013

Translated from Greek

When Jag Panzer announced their split in 2011, Harry "The Tyrant" Conklin decided to join in Satan's Host, the band of which he was a founding member 1986-1988 when released and their cult debut "Metal from Hell". The By the Hands of the Devil 2011 had left an excellent impression and personally melted. Crush the great Harry.

Listen and read that Satan's Host play longer something Blackened-Heavy-Death-Power-Dark Metal with similar combinations of these idioms. The class is one and not have to very tiring. The band plays HEAVY METAL balls with something like eggs dragons in Game of Thrones.

The album can not be described easily digestible complexity no reason but because every musical experiences and discovering new things. Theatrical largely but by no means tedious. Technical yet affordable and above all mature and passionate.

The familiar voice of Conklin dresses enchanting disc with amazing transitions roles and emotions. Sometimes soaring, sometimes dark and brutal and sometimes just orgasm. Perhaps the best and most complete interpretation of many years. Add stunning performance by Patrick guitar solo inspired to succeed one another and the actual riff mowing blades that come up before them and God with us. Do not forget to mention the rhythm section which robust as concrete to grasp the neck and breathtaking. To produce nor reason. Seamless and fully prosarmormeni physiognomically disc.

All tracks wreak sexual excitement but how you have to be to write something like Infinite Impossibilities. The bass lines in the beginning, the riff in progress and the interpretation of Harry smash any possibility of mental equilibrium. One of the best pieces I've heard for 2013 and counting. Closely follow the Vaporous of the Blood and Dichotomy where the metal Freakout shows and finds another fertile ground to grow.

Metallonia my short if the inspiration and freshness is desired then the Virgin Sails is the answer. Not that this movement will not open new musical paths but will make us all proud that we chose this music to accompany us. Certainly one of the best album for the current year.

Belief and disbelief arrive.

-Lambi Kipenis

Rating: 5/5

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Stormbringer -November 28, 2013

Translated from German

Especially when it came to new material that I had with SATAN'S HOST far as my dear Problems - The de facto comeback album "By The Hands Of The Devil" from the year 2011 was only by the alien vocal work of a certain Leviathan This Irish halfway saved. The fact that the guy moonlighting as Harry "The Tyrant" Conklin also JAG PANZER been converted into the absolute piñata, is mentioned only in passing. The new Output "Virgin Sails" but is different in many ways, the SATAN'S HOST songs work again in the satanic evil context, the grim, almost eight minute long entry with "Cor Malifecus - Heart Of Evil" scratching even at world-class level!

But the rest of the more than 55 minutes again lavishly stocked the winder knows clearly fallen more than the direct predecessor. The lyrics are of course still full of black magic, satanic verses and occult thingy, all this really stunning in the highest perfection and at times performed by one of the best metal vocalists on this globe. The instrumental backbone is built next to the tight rhythm section together especially guitarist Patrick Evil and in total, this results in one of the U.S. Metal highlights of the local year.

Although tend to the speed was a little taken out (approaching the blast beat really only has "Infinite Impossibilities" in the program), the Satan brothers do not be stingy with tasteful U.S. steel and on top of that shoot SATAN'S HOST with the epic, from the instrumental interlude "Taromati" introduced , nearly eight-minute title track from the final bird. A Tyrant best in form and an occult-tinged Epic Metal Best leave "Virgin Sails" bar more than mindful.

In addition to far better songwriting to sit in the house SATAN'S HOST otherwise but rather on continuity: The label (U.S. underground cult forge Morribound Records), producer (Dave Otero) and also artworkers (Joe Petagno - among other things, the inventor of the Snaggeltooths MOTÖRHEAD ) are the same as we did at "By The Hands Of The Devil" . But the reaction has been better this time around at least one wind strength.

-Reini

Rating: 4/5

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Metal Mundus -November 26, 2013

Translated from Polish

As soon as I learned that just released a new album Satan's Host, immediately wrote to the publisher, because always loved this band. So by all means wanted to hear what they have to propose a new two older gentlemen with colleagues. I will say one thing, I'm so glad huge that I could listen to this album until now I have a problem with hitting the computer keys. Because I was expecting a good album, but what I got exceeded all of my expectations. This is - for me - certainly one of the candidates for the board this year.

Imagine a lot of wonderful heavy metal riffs and solos, a lot of heavy doomowego waltz, some climate black metal and hovering over all the singer's voice, the voice of unique, amazing, dazzling, and at the same time evoking the memory of the master Dio, sometimes reaching the patents King Diamond. So I had to write the word "singer" in capital letters, because it's really unique singer.

The team introduces us to the special atmosphere of the first sounds already, maintained in a climate doomowym song "Cor Malifecus - Hart Of Evil", a fantastic song, mighty, in which the master Leviathan has already shown his greatness. It is impossible to describe, or track, or the voice, its all possible, the power in the lower registers and championships in high. If the finished disc on this piece, I was already enchanted. But this infatuation heighten the next, excellent numbers: another heavy expanded, with fantastic acceleration "Island Of The Giant Ants", or specific, reaching just to patents Dio "Dichotomy". The fourth track group quite significantly accelerates łojąc fantastic riffs and okraszając number of interesting solo. After a sharp piece comes a moment of relief, so we get a pretty guitar interlude, entitled "Akoman", which goes to the next sensational song "Reanimated Anomalies," in which the number of stately classic doom turns into a fast, splendid piece of heavy metal. This amazing track, very atmospheric, reaching both in terms of style, but also the vocal mannerisms to the aforementioned King Diamond. Just a revelation! The fact that the team can do good, fast, thrashy even numbers provides another queued song "Infinite Impossibilities", splendid in every respect, with allusions (listen to the vocals!) Even the Wizard ... In one word - excellence.

After a quick issue we are subjected to therapy Doom, enter the amazing, straight from the black metal atmosphere (though we get a little characteristic of this style screeching vocals), but again with a slight reference to the Diamond. Then again interlude and at the end of a fantastic group serves us heavy, powerful, sometimes downright anthemic (but with a nice melodic solo) title track.

That's all I even wrote a little forward but not class this album. No word will not give up the atmosphere of this album, you can not describe how wonderful are the pieces, how wonderfully played and sung.

In conclusion, I must add that "Virgin Sails" is the first album, which again appeared co-founders of the group: guitarist Patrick Evil and the already mentioned vocalist Leviathan Thisiren. Dear gentlemen parted ways after the release of the 1987 EP "Midnight Wind". The renovated in 1999, the team, the role of a singer he LCFElixir. In turn, Leviathan gave a well-known bands like Jag Panzer, Titan Force, Tyrant.

This record must be, in any event, I'm starting comprise cash!

-Ray

Rating: 10/10

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-November 25, 2013

Respecting the lord of the underworld, conveying blasphemous preaching upon the listening audience below, the entire world is a stage setting and the devil's word is spread far and wide, leaving hell for a stroll on the face of the earth carbonized in its human host, the host of Satan, to visit the awaiting maidens, the slaves next in line. The return of SATAN'S HOST, the American Heavy Metal band that has been spreading its blackened vision since 1979, one of the paramount US leaders of the first wave of Black Metal, similar to the likes of MERCYFUL FATE and VENOM in Europe. After experiencing their 2011's "By The Hands Of The Devil", which marked the return of The Tyrant, or accurately for this occasion Leviathan Thisiren, meaning Harry Conklin the powerful vocalist of the recently disbanded JAG PANZER fame, was an inspiring album of a highly developed Heavy Metal. Two years afterwards, with the re-emergence of their Moribund Cult Records label, the satanic horde revealed "Virgin Sails", a neck breaking menace of creative Heavy Metal following the vibe of their previous, yet also establishing new grounds for the band with slightly more sophisticated songwriting and compositions, sometimes even resembling CHARRED WALLS OF THE DAMNED.

Even though a little far in quality in comparison to "By The Hands Of The Devil", this new album still provides the crushing classic driven assault wave that SATAN'S HOST has been showing since reasserting their Heavy Metal direction after Conklin's return to the ranks. Patrick Evil is a mere wizard, composing hellish riffery that apply to late post NWOBHM / 80's US Metal, including Thrash / Speed / Doom deliveries, while also mixing it up with modern day low end grooves along with certificating neat soloing arrangements. I was astonished by his efforts that led to profound assorted undertakings as once again Patrick Evil was able to assert the besmirched atmosphere and textures of a true first wave Black Metal album in a newly fashioned form. Anthony Lopez aka the Evil Little Hobbit thrilled with his outstanding drumming, like a machine bombarding fast pace like a nonstop racer running on air. Such great skill isn't that common I'd tell you that. He might not be exceedingly technical, yet his posture is dominant. Frankly, there is nothing too much to add on the performance of Margar that somewhat appeared common as a riff follow without showing his talent or taking on leading roles. However, Mr. Thisiren is decisive and inspiring as ever, singing in mid high range as it has been evident throughout his JAG PANZER days along with his reappearance with SATAN'S HOST combined with blackened semi growls that sounded so clear.

Structure and song wise, it appeared to me that probably the album's weakness was the fact that several of the tracks felt over stretched with filler segments that weren't really necessary like on the opening "Cor Malifecus – Heart Of Evil" or even on the largely impressive representations on the title track "Virgin Sails" and "Vaporous of the Blood". There was a general impressive by yours truly that a few additions were forced where these tracks could be wicked conquerors in lesser time periods as their point where already perceived. On the other hand, it felt different after I listen to the relentlessly vehement storm of Speed / Power / Thrash Metal of "Infinite Impossibilities" or the miscellaneous Heavy Metal symptoms of the mysterious scorcher of "Island of the Giant Ants". The epic "Virgin Sails" closing the package, destroys with slow tempo melancholic BLACK SABBATH oriented sinfulness, assimilating my mind with haunting riffery, slowly building up a gravelly landscape. I might even add the likes of "Vaporous of the Blood" that had that melodic JAG PANZER vibe within until the devilish build up that unleashed venom into a carving madness of effusive riffery and crude rhythm section. Even if not reaching its previous contender, it would be arduous for anyone not to experience the surroundings of "Virgin Sails", truly an inspiring work created by a band that I urge you to keep on following.

-Lior "Steinmetal" Stein

Rating: 7/10

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Arson Cafe -November 15, 2013

I thought I would never fully enjoy heavy metal again because of the bands' constant and maybe unwilling struggle to get too shreddy or too old school, with ballarina singers and unexceptional songs, effect-driven, lacking spirit. Even when a new band arises that I find solid, it's because of their passion to bring the eighties back and succeeding in that. Now, Satan's Host avoided all this and made their way to a new album that I enjoyed the most for this year when it comes to clean singing metal. Maybe because they went through a period of black / death in the nineties, which is pretty much a Midas touch for any band. Just kidding of course, but with a sincere perspective.

The band was created in 1977 and I have only heard their debut album Metal from Hell that was released in 1986, which was right on the spot for it's time but yet not completely bewitching. I lost track of them and only came across the new release because of the amazing cover (as usual) and the funny album title, hoping for something at least bearable. Lot's bands fade away over the years and these guys have a huge run already.

Right of the back, the concept revolves around darkness and evil with some shots of occultism, the perfect and appropriate themes of bands into the originator of extreme metal, much better than fairy tales and pink make-up, as most of the mainstream bands do nowadays. Finally, I get to read some wonderful lyrics from a newcomer heavy metal band, since i'm way too critical on the matter, this is serious business. The have done Necronomicon references in the past and their approach once again is poetic. Naturally, they are accurately embellished by the marvelous voice of Leviathan Thirisen, the band's singer (who played in Jag Panzer before Satan's Host). The vocals sound direct and powerful, hitting high notes as well as a few torn out screams and growls, as If the guy was born for this position. The double singing in various moments in the album is magnificent and the whole performance delivers exquisite singing fortitude.

Musically, Virgin Sails is one interesting and mauling composition after the other. The production is polished and presents a very friendly environment for the listener to headbang on, while the songs offer plenty of neckbreaking moments, built on furious riffs and solos, as well as pummeling beats all the way. The drummer of the band is called Evil Little Hobbit and seems to be influenced by classic heavy and death metal drumming all the way. While the main fills are close to the regular pattern, there are several moments where he gets more intense will blast beats and complex playing, making the contribution of the drums notable during the album. The reason they are now labeled as blackened heavy metal is not only because of the lyrical theme, but because of the music itself, which is one step further than most of the scene's bands, with more variety as well.

I noticed allusions to various genres in the songs, like the stoner-like riff in the middle of "Dichotomy", the harsh vocals refering to black / death in "Reanimated Anomalies", the Enslaved-driven introduction guitar melody in "Infinite Impossibilities" and the black metal part of "Vaporous of the Blood", not to mention the grungy interlude "Taromati". The groovy beginnings of "Of Beast and Men" and the self-titled track remind of modern groove / death metal too. The overall guitar work is astonishing and worthy of any title, because of the hammering riffing that co-works with the coming and going, wondrous solos.

From what I heard, this is a great album with lot's of ingredients for everyone. I guarantee you won't be listening to the same song again and again, more like you'll be astounded by the variety. It focuses and stays close to the core of heavy metal, but often wanders off in other subgenres without losing track of the flow, keeping up a standard of quality as a whole.

-Uncredited

Rating: 8.0/10

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Voices from the Darkside CD Synopsis -October 13, 2013

The US Satanic Heavy Metal titans SATAN'S HOST are among us again - and with their 11th full-length studio recording titled "Virgin Sails", which should surely make us feel pumped up and excited, right dear folks? SATAN'S HOST's previous album, "By The Hands Of Devil", was throughout a superb release from these loyal disciples of Satan, so undoubtedly our sincere expectations have been running pretty darn high regarding the band's next release, which happens to be this brand-new 10-track affair from them, "Virgin Sails". It must be said ever since Harry Conklin (aka Leviathan Thisiren) rejoined the band in 2010, it feels like a whole new era has started for SATAN'S HOST; an era in which the band seems to be on fire better and stronger than ever before. As good as "By The Hands Of Devil" was - much thanks to Harry's very inspirational and effective vocal performance on that recording (which more than obviously also fed the band's inner flame for a better performance material wise overall), "Virgin Sails" takes a few more extra steps forward in terms of songwriting maturity and execution of new ideas. On "Virgin Sails", SATAN'S HOST do what they can do best - and that's to combine some certain elements seamlessly from Heavy Metal, Power Metal, Thrash Metal, Death Metal and Black Metal seamlessly and very enjoyable way. SATAN'S HOST have that specific ability to mix different Metal genres such an extraordinary convincing and pleasing way, without sounding fake - just no matter if you would hear them for the very first time, and having no idea their whole band history at all. What "Virgin Sails" is basically all about, it's first and foremost about top-notch musicianship, which is a result of years and years of musical experience, to believe your own work - and sheer determination to achieve some certain goals, without giving up no matter if some low points of your career may have tried to kick the shit out of you. SATAN'S HOST have surely been baptized in their own purgatory - and it really shows when listening to their latest album. It's just full of the guys' determination to give some extra painful kicks right back to you; an amazingly mature display of some larger than life Heavy Metal harmonies in between brutality and utterly beautiful melodies - like handing over all those most tasteful ingredients on one single plate for its listeners that we all love in Heavy Metal music in general speaking. Heavy Metal was meant to be dangerous, wicked, raising different types of emotions in a listener, making you return back to it over and over again - and everything in between really. Well, "Virgin Sails" is all about that - and much more actually, and it's not only SATAN'S HOST's best work to date but also one of the most convincing Metal albums recorded during this ongoing millennium. No kidding! The title track alone, may well be the band's most breathtaking song they have ever recorded during their entire existence. If you think I am lying about this album to you, then by all means do yourself a favor by putting "Virgin Sails" on your 'must purchase' list next. You won't regret it, believe me. The filthy and pitch-black nest of Satan can be found at: www.satanshost.com, label: www.moribundcult.com

-Luxi Lahtinen

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Interviews

Canadian Assault-zine- April 2014

Satan's Host, featuring Jag Panzer vocalist Harry Conklin, has been around since the early 80's, but broke up for many years (from 1988 to 1994) before returning stronger than ever. "Virgin Sails" is one of the best heavy metal/thrash albums to be released in quite some time. It sparked my interest to get in touch and see what these almighty metal veterans are up to!

Hails Patrick! how are things going with you these days? Thank you for taking the time to fill out this interview. When did you first get the idea to form Satan's Host?

Please give a brief history of the band? How did you come up with the name for the band? What is the current lineup for the band?

The band broke up in 1988 why did the band call it quits for a few years?

In 1994 Satan's Host returned what made you decide to reform the band? Happy with how things have gone over the years?

Satan Host recently released their newest cd "Virgin Sails" through the mighty Moribund Rec. How long did it take the band to write the music for the new release?

When the band starts writing a new song how long does it usually take to complete it? Does the whole band take part in the writing process or is it just one or two members that write everything?

How has the response been from the fans? What about the press?

Does Satan's Host have any upcoming tours or shows to tell the fans about? who are some bands you all will be playing with? If you could set up a dream show/tour who would you love to share the stage with?

Where have been some of your most memorable shows? Is there anywhere you all haven't played yet that you hope to someday?

I know you have been in the scene since the 80's so I was curious on how you feel about social media sites the Internet etc.? I was wondering do you ever miss the days of tape-trading fanzines ?

In your opinion what is the best and worst thing about the underground? And what does the term Metal Underground mean to you?

Patrick you handle the guitars for Satan's Host at what age did you start playing the guitars? Are you self taught or did you take lessons?

Who would you say are your influences and favorite guitarist? Do you play any other instruments?

Well Patrick thank you for taking the time to fill this out do you have any final words for the readers?

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Wormwood Chronicles Interview- April 14, 2014

-Dr. Abner Mality

Looks like the old saying about the Devil having the best music has been proven correct again. Or at least he has the best metal! I guarantee that the new Satan's Host record "Virgin Sails" has been getting played to death down in the sweltering confines of Gehenna! I am equally sure that Lucifer is using it to torture Fred Phelps and Osama bin Laden even now!

Seriously, "Virgin Sails" is one of the most unexpected listening pleasures I've had in a long time. It is superb, powerful heavy metal in the purest meaning of the term and the vocals of one Leviathan Thirisen (aka Harry Conklin, formerly of the great Jag Panzer) are sublime to the point of being diabolical. What makes Satan's Host different from so many dark and "evil" bands is their unswerving dedication to true melodic metal. Do not expect murky, trebly production or squealing pig burps from these dudes. This is metal redolent of Nevermore, Testament, Helstar, Iron Maiden and Jag Panzer. But the spirit of Lucifer is never far from Satan's Host.

It's been a long, hard journey for this Denver-based band, who have been preaching their sinister gospel since the mid-80's. "Virgin Sails" is the payoff. No one could be happier than guitar sorcerer and sole remaining original member Patrick Evil. I interrupted Mr. Evil's vigorous schedule of band practice and blood sacrifice to get a few words from him on the amazing quality of "Virgin Sails", the return of Leviathan to the band after many years and the guiding philosophy behind the Host.

Henceforth I present the results of our conversation...

WORMWOOD CHRONICLES: Hail to the Host. "Virgin Sails" is such a monumental achievement…do you feel that the entire career of Satan's Host since 1986 has been leading to this album?

WC: The story of how Leviathan Thisiren (Harry Conklin) returned to the band after so many years must have felt like fate taking a hand. Was his return ordained by some higher power?

WC: When Leviathan returned, did he click with the band again right away? Or did it take some time for him to get in the "Satanic" groove again?

WC: With such tumult in the line-up over the years, does the "Virgin Sails" lineup feel like the final configuration of Satan's Host?

WC:What exactly is the meaning behind the title "Virgin Sails"?

WC: How were the tunes on "Virgin Sails" put together? Patrick Evil has always been a guiding light…do the other members have their say in how things are developed?

WC: The pure Satanic beliefs behind Satan's Host are well-known. Are those beliefs shared by all members in equal measure? Could it be possible for an atheist or even a Christian to play in the band if they have the musical chops?

WC: In its most basic form, what is the ethos behind Satan's Host? What is the guiding creed?

WC: Both musically and lyrically, is the band still guided by the same ideas as back in 1986…or even 2004? Are those ideas set in stone or are they ever changing?

WC: You have always kept the melody of classic metal in Satan's Host despite the rise of "brutal" music like orthodox black metal and death metal. How important is keeping true to that? And have you ever felt tempted to evolve in a more brutal direction?

WC: The lyrics behind some of these songs fascinate me. "Island of the Giant Ants" seems to be a metaphor…can you elaborate on it a bit more?

WC: How about "Infinite Impossibilities"? What are the impossibilities you are referring to?

WC: Finally, what is "Vaporous of the Blood" about? Is it a reference to vampirism?

WC: Will Satan's Host have a stronger live presence now?

WC: If you could ask any 3 people from history to dinner, who would they be?

WC: What was the last CD/release you got just because you wanted to check the band out?

WC: What was the last live gig you saw?

WC: Has there ever been a "Spinal Tap" moment for Satan's Host where things went crazy that you could share with us?

WC: Any last words of inspiration or shout-outs for the fans?

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Metal Chaoz Interview- March 30, 2014

-Dimitris Kontogeorgakos

SATAN'S HOST seem to be on a winning streak releasing an even better album than "By The Hands Of The Devil" that saw Harry Conklin returning behind the mic. METAL KAOZ took the opportunity and submitted a series of questions to Harry Conklin (a.k.a. Leviathan Thirisen) and Anthony Lopez (a.k.a. Evil Hobbit ) who answered them as follows. Join the Legions!

Welcome to METAL KAOZ guys and many congrats for "Virgin Sails"! The album has been out for more than three months, so how is the feedback so far?

You have released a video for "Dichotomy" that is a collection of photos; how didn't you use live footage?

Why did you choose this song? Are there plans to film another one?

Harry Conklin returned to SATAN'S HOST in 2010, so are there any differences in the way you worked in the studio as compared to the past?

How long did it take you to write and compose the music in "Virgin Sails"?

Is there a concept behind the album's lyrics? Particularly I am asking about "The Island Of the Giant Ants" and "Virgin Sails".

All the songs you wrote for "Virgin Sails" were included in the album or do you have some songs that for some reason did not make it?

"Virgin Sails" has an amazing cover artwork, so what was the band's involvement in the artwork's making? Is there any connection with the self-titled song?

For the time being you have announce two live shows in Greece's 'Up The Hammers' and in the US' 'Doom In June' fest; are there any other live dates to be added in your schedule? What about a full US tour?

Great! How many songs will you rehearse for these live dates? Do you have any surprises?

How many songs will you use from "Virgin Sails"? Having 8 full length albums must be hard to choose the songs to use in live setlists, right?

Do you have other live dates in Europe lined up?

Will you use the same setlist in 'Doom In June'?

Looking at the band's backcatalogue I see "Assault Of Evil… 666" as the only DVD release that is actually a collection of videos; is making a new live recorded DVD in your plans?

SATAN'S HOST was formed in the mid-80s, so how things in the Metal scene have changed over the years? Is it nowadays more difficult for a band to economically survive than it was in the beginning?

SATAN'S HOST seem to be releasing one full length per two years; does this mean that we should expect the next one somewhere in 2015? I mean, have you set a timetable for the next SATAN'S HOST album or you just take things as they come?

There are two albums from SATAN'S HOST that were not released: "Midnight Wind" and "Legions Of The Fire Age"; first of all, can you shed some light on the reasons why this happened?

Is there any chance to a give "Midnight Wind" and "Legions Of The Fire Age" a release chance? Or even re-record all or some of the material to put it out there?

In "By The Hands Of The Devil" you had complete makeover of THE BEATLES "Norwegian Wood" that we had the chance to listen live at 'Keep It True' Festival; who had the idea to cover this one? Are there more cover songs recorded that have not been yet released?

Well, thank you guys for taking the time to answer to METAL KAOZ questions and I hope to see you soon live in Chicago!

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Battle Helm Interview- January 18, 2014

- Anders Ekdahl

SATAN'S HOST have been going for what seems like forever yet they have not gained the attention that they deserve. Anders Ekdahl ©2014

When you started the band all those years ago with what intention did you do so?

How did you end up with the name SATAN'S HOST? Was there a specific meaning to the choice of name?

When you picked the name how much of a satanic metal scene was there? Was black and death metal a thing that was happening or was it more straight heavy metal with a satanic twist?

When you first started what kind of bands did you feel connected to?

You have a new album to promote. How tough is it to get noticed today even if you have a history that dates back a while?

What are your feelings on this new album? Did it come out the way you expected?

How important is the art work these days? Do people that download their albums care for the art work?

How hard is it to write songs these days? Do you feel that you have to trash a lot of stuff because it sounds like stuff you've already done?

I don't know what kind of experience you've had with record labels but what is the biggest difference being on a somewhat underground label compared to being signed to one of the bigger metal labels?

What kind of future do you see?

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Dead Rhetoric Interview- January 14, 2014

-Kyle McGinn

When you've been around as along as Satan's Host, you can sit by and watch trends come and go. They've been throught a number of iterations since 1986's Metal from Hell, with a sound that has constantly evolved but stayed true to their mission statement. Their latest release, 2013's Virgin Sails, sees the band again raising the metal bar and forging ever onward with a sound uniquely their own.

We were able to fire off an email interview with vocalist Harry "Tyrant" Conklin (Leviathan Thisirin) and drummmer Anthony Lopez (Evil Hobbit) to catch up on all things Virgin Sails. We were also able to discuss their take on the metal industry and the inevietable problems that can result by having "Satan" in your band name...read on for their candid and insightful responses.

How does your newest album, Virgin Sails, compare with the rest of your discography?

Virgin Sails is the second album back with Harry Conklin, how did the writing process go. Was it smoother this time around having a steady line-up?

Were there any expectations you felt you needed to live up to, after the success of By the Hands of the Devil?

I heard that in it's initial stages, the album was going to be called Vaporous of the Blood, was there a reason you decided to go with Virgin Sails instead?

Satan's Host has a pretty identifiable and unique sound when compared to any peer in metal, how did this come together? Is there a method for how you fuse together so many different genres into your music?

With most bands, their logo tends to become less "evil" and plainer over the years. Your current iteration (from Great American Scapegoat forward) seems to have done the opposite. Was this intentional or did it just happen to go that way?

The band recently celebrated a 25-year anniversary, what is the driving force that pushes you to continue writing and making music?

Satan's Host seems to get a ton of great press with each release, yet after all this time there is still a certain level of obscurity associated with the band. Is it ever frustrating to see that you are doing great things but never really getting the audience you deserve?

Looking back, do you think the moniker Satan's Host has impeded some potential exposure for the band, given the finicky nature of metal fans?

Being in the business for such an extended period, how do you feel that the music industry has changed over the years?

What are your thoughts on the state of metal, going into 2014?

Does Satan's Host have any plans going forward into the New Year?

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Eternal Terror Interview- December 30, 2013

-Lars Klingenberg (Moribund Records)

Although Satan's Host had shared their infinite darkness for close to 30 years, their most recent masterpiece Virgin Sails is my first experience with the band. I wanted to explore the minds of the band, and gave them a few questions to allow us to become more familiar with the Colorado foursome.

First of all congratulations on a fantastic album. Do you guys feel you have accomplished something of a milestone with all these awesome reviews you are receiving?

USA is not that familiar for creating black metal masterpieces. Have you ever felt US black metal bands aren´t getting enough credit for their work compared to the more classical BM countries like Norway and Sweden? How is it being a pure blooded black metal band in the US?

So on to a few standard questions: Influences! In my ears there is no doubt of the parallels to King Diamond, but I might be totally mistaken too. Can you tell us a bit of your musical background and who your biggest influences have been through the years? Have they changed a lot?

When you guys are touring, do you play music in the bus for all to listen, or is it kept to a personal level? Do the musical preferences differ between the band members? Can you agree on a current rite album (except your own of course)?

I just have to ask this question. Your alias´. I must admit my eyebrows rose a bit when I saw what nicks you have chosen. What's the background for them, and what are your intentions for using them?

I really hope that more people will check out your music in the future. Do you have any long term plans for touring and future releases?

With all that said, I am really looking forward to dive into all of your previous material, and I´m also looking forward with great anticipation to your future work.

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RockPages Interview- December 20, 2013

-Sakis Nikas

Satan's Host...pretty cool name for a band, wouldn't you say? Leviathan Thisiren...try and beat that awesome stage name for a singer! Denver should be proud for this underground, cult outfit that more than 27 years delivered a heavy metal masterpiece called "Metal For Hell". And just in case the name of Leviathan Thisiren sounds peculiar to your ears, let us just say that this is non other than the legendary Harry Conklin who was kind enough to share some of his precious time with us and give us some details about Satan's Host's new album "Virgin Sails". Needless to say, that we couldn't let the chance and not ask Conklin about Jag Panzer and Titan Force.

Rockpages.gr: Harry, congratulations on yet another excellent offering with "Virgin Sails". It is another epic/power gem. What can you tell us about it?

Rockpages.gr: Judging by some of the song titles (eg. "Island of the Giant Ants", "Of Beast and Men", "Vaporous of the Blood" etc.), is it safe to say that the lyrical inspiration was drawn by the realm of fantasy and epic sagas? Is it a concept album?

Rockpages.gr: When I first listened to the record, I noticed that it is in the same vein as the previous album "By The Hands of the Devil". What's your comment and by the way how did it feel to be back in the studio with Satan's Host after all these years?

Rockpages.gr: Satan's Host is one of the very few bands that play a hybrid of power metal with many black metal elements. How do you manage to combine those two seemingly opposite genres?

Rockpages.gr: As a singer, do you approach your vocals duties in Satan's Host in a different way or is it really business as usual for you?

Rockpages.gr: One of the most respected heavy metal bands that unfortunately never achieved the fame that it deserved was Titan Force. What do you remember from that period in your career?

Rockpages.gr: Jag Panzer will play once again in Greece. Are you looking forward to it?

Rockpages.gr: You have one of the most distinguished voices in heavy metal that still reaches even the highest and most demanding notes. How do you manage to maintain your voice in such a high and much envied level?

Rockpages.gr: What are your influences as a singer?

Rockpages.gr: What's in store for all the Satan's Host fans? Will you tour for the promotion of "Virgin Sails" and will we see more albums in the future?

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