In the world of heavy metal, few albums capture the raw, untamed spirit of the genre's formative years quite like Omen's 1984 debut, "Battle Cry." This 2017 reissue by Metal Blade Records serves as a sonic time capsule, transporting us back to an era when the New Wave of British Heavy Metal was in full swing, influencing a legion of American bands hungry to forge their own metallic path.
Historical Context: Riding the New Wave
The early 1980s was a fertile breeding ground for heavy metal. Bands like Iron Maiden, Judas Priest, and Saxon were leading the charge in Britain, their twin-guitar harmonies, galloping rhythms, and epic tales of mythology and battle captivating a generation of headbangers. Omen, hailing from Los Angeles, California, emerged from this cauldron of creativity, drawing inspiration from their British counterparts while injecting their own brand of American bravado into the mix.
Musical Exploration: A Cry of Defiance
"Battle Cry" is a relentless assault of classic heavy metal tropes. From the opening salvo of "Death Rider," with its galloping riffs and J.D. Kimball's soaring vocals, to the anthemic title track, Omen leaves no doubt about their intent: to conquer the world with their music. Kenny Powell's fiery guitar solos, Jody Henry's thunderous bass lines, and Steve Wittig's pummeling drums create a sonic maelstrom that is both exhilarating and exhausting.
Genre Fusion: Classic Metal with a Melodic Edge
While firmly rooted in the NWOBHM tradition, Omen also incorporated elements of American power metal into their sound. Kimball's vocals, reminiscent of Rob Halford and Bruce Dickinson, possess a melodic sensibility that sets them apart from many of their contemporaries. The band's songwriting, while steeped in tales of battle and fantasy, also explored themes of personal struggle and triumph, adding a layer of emotional depth to their music.
Controversies: None to Speak Of
Unlike some of their peers, Omen steered clear of controversy. Their music was focused on the sheer joy of heavy metal, devoid of any overt political or social commentary. This lack of controversy, while perhaps limiting their appeal to some, allowed them to focus on their craft and create an album that has stood the test of time.
Production Team: The Metal Blade Connection
"Battle Cry" was produced by Brian Slagel, the founder of Metal Blade Records. Slagel, a champion of underground metal, recognized Omen's potential and provided them with the platform to unleash their music upon the world. The album was recorded at Track Record Studios in Los Angeles, with Bill Metoyer at the helm. Metoyer, known for his work with Slayer and Armored Saint, captured the band's raw energy while ensuring a polished final product.
