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Featuring exclusive Side B artwork by bassist Doug Smith, this 1988 debut album is a must-have for collectors and classic metal enthusiasts. As a special bonus, it includes the track "Into the Darkness," originally featured on Metal Massacre VIII. With only 300 copies pressed, this limited-edition release is a true gem for fans of underground heavy metal history!
Gargoyle's Nothing Is Sacred stands as a fascinating relic of late-'80s US power metal, showcasing both moments of brilliance and the challenges faced by a band striving for a unique identity in a crowded scene. Emerging from Oregon, the band exudes a raw ambition that hints at their desire to join the ranks of genre titans like Fates Warning and Helstar. While they didn’t quite ascend to such heights, their sole full-length album offers plenty to appreciate for fans of traditional heavy metal.
At its core, Nothing Is Sacred thrives on its guitar work. Kevin Sanders and Pat Lachman deliver a strong combination of driving riffs and intricate melodies, crafting a sound that’s equal parts muscular and melodic. Tracks like "Final Victory" and "Out from the Shadows" display the band’s penchant for ambitious, layered compositions, with soaring leads and tight rhythms that evoke the spirit of early Helstar or Omen. These songs are clear standouts, brimming with the kind of energy that demands repeat listens.
Tim Lachman’s vocal performance, while competent, might not fully captivate listeners who expect the theatrics of a Bruce Dickinson or James Rivera. That said, Lachman’s earnest delivery has a charm of its own, particularly when he stays in his mid-range comfort zone. His voice pairs well with the album’s more introspective moments, such as the atmospheric “Blind Faith.”
The production, courtesy of Triad Studios, captures the band’s sound with clarity and punch, giving the guitars room to shine while keeping the rhythm section tight. While the songwriting occasionally dips into predictability, Gargoyle compensates with a palpable enthusiasm that carries even the less inspired moments.
Though they never reached their full potential, Gargoyle left behind an album that reflects their dedication to the craft. Nothing Is Sacred is a snapshot of a band with the talent and vision to make waves, even if their journey was cut short. For fans of classic US power metal, this album is a rewarding listen that deserves to be rediscovered.
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