Skanners - Greatest Hits - Reviewed At Metal Crypt ! Check it out here at this link: http://www.metalcrypt.com/pages/review.php?revid=13134
I don't usually review greatest hits albums, but as I'd never heard of Italy's Skanners prior to this 2021 compilation dropping into my review queue, I figured why not? This band has been around nearly 40 years and from what is presented here, their sound has undergone only minor tweaks in that time, remaining a solidly '80s hard rock/heavy metal one. Sometimes they are heavier, like on "Flagellum Dei" which has a beefy riff and fat bottom with the gravelly but clear vocals and sound a lot like something Armored Saint would do and other times they are swimming in the hard rock end of the pool, like "Turn it Under Now" with its party atmosphere, upbeat riff and overall Y&T vibe. Other influences can be picked up relatively easily over the course of the album. "Under the Grave" has a vocal similar to Malice, "Starlight" is a NWOBHM throwback with a simple, energetic performance not unlike Dragonslayer and the chanting backing vocals on "Time of War" bring Accept to mind. The music trends heavier at the album progresses and in general Skanners' performances and songwriting are solid if somewhat derivative throughout. I can't in good conscience call this a must-have as there is nothing here that hasn't been heard many times. It is simply a solid hard rock/heavy metal album that if you need something to crank on a long drive or to blast while at work will probably fit the bill. - Metal Crypt
Release Date October 22 2021
FFO: Metal Church, Accept, Helloween
To celebrate the 35th discographic anniversary of the Band and the forthcoming 40th since its formation, Music for the Masses has the honor to announce the agreement with legendary Italian metallers Skanners for the release of their first Greatest Hits which goes through the Band’s whole career. Skanners are with no doubt one of the most important and representative bands of Italian Heavy Metal, one of the few deserving the definition of “Legendary”. Kicking off back in 1982 and debuting in 1986 with “Dirty Armada”, released for a Major Label, the then very active CGD, which also released the following “Pictures of War” in 1988, the Band has ever since kept up its identity and dignity, always far from trend-following and staying true to its Metal Belief, supported by great composition and talent, together with Claudio Pisoni’s voice. These have always been the trademarks of the Band. The Greatest hits, produced by Music for the Masses is scheduled for release on October 22nd on cd format and features 16 tracks drawn from the entire rich Band’s repertoire, tracing an actual musical biography which will satisfy die hard fans but will also be able to attract new listeners to their musical craft. And, for this special release, a new, unreleased song entitled “Under the Grave” will be on the album.
The album will be distributed by Egea Music (Italy), Code 7 (Europe), Sleaszy Rider Records (USA), Wormholedeath Japan and Music for the Masses Distro. In addition, it will be available on all digital platforms. The promotion will be taken care by Grand Sounds (Europe), Metal Devastation PR (USA), Mazzarella Press Office (Italy) and Wormholedeath (Japan).
Lineup:
CLAUDIO PISONI -Vocals
FABIO TENCA - Guitars
WALTER UNTERHAUSER - Guitars
TOMAS VALENTINI - Bass
CHRISTIAN KRANAUER - Drums
Follow the band at these links:
https://www.facebook.com/skannersitaly
https://www.instagram.com/skannersitaly/
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC5aZpDG_kp2_RcGUaEGfBng
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