In 1983, the heavy metal scene was in its prime, delivering a slew of classic albums. It was a wild, unapologetic era where bands knew exactly what they wanted – total domination. The New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM) was still roaring, black metal was in its infancy, and thrash metal was emerging with the force of a sledgehammer through the door.
In this intense musical landscape, Exciter's "Heavy Metal Maniac" stood out as a relentless force. The album's sound is a raw, face-melting onslaught, reminiscent of Motörhead but even more frenetic. It's the kind of rawness that embodies the perfect blend of speed, melody, aggression, and unapologetic attitude. This album demands your obedience and will leave you reeling if you don't comply.
Dan Beehler, serving as both vocalist and drummer, delivers the ideal tone for early thrash and speed metal, making James Hetfield's sound on "Kill 'Em All" seem inadequate in comparison. John Ricci's guitar tone is flawless, exuding the kind of energy that can grow hair on your chest and make your heart race. Alan Johnson on bass provides the warm, fuzzy backbone to this trio of metal warriors.
"Heavy Metal Maniac" has it all. Instant classics like "Stand Up and Fight," the anthem-like title track, and "Rising The Dead" dominate the album. On the flip side, you encounter a touch of melodic, almost Black Sabbath-esque heaviness, as found in "Black Witch," which features an intro reminiscent of Metallica's "Fade To Black." In between, you have more mid-paced headbangers, such as "Iron Dogs," which bears a resemblance to Mercyful Fate's "Curse of the Pharaohs," along with "Cry of The Banshee," "The Holocaust," "Under Attack," and "Mistress Of Evil."
As a debut album, "Heavy Metal Maniac" packs a powerful punch. It's an album worth listening to and studying, particularly for its infectious guitar sound. This album defines where Exciter stood and what they contributed in the midst of the metal onslaught in 1983. It's a must-listen for any metal enthusiast.
1. The Holocaust 01:39
2. Stand Up And Fight 02:47
3. Heavy Metal Maniac 03:47
4. Iron Dogs 05:58
5. Mistress Of Evil 05:13
6. Under Attack 04:17
7. Rising Of The Dead 03:32
8. Blackwitch 06:59
9. Cry Of The Banshee 03:47
