Iron Spell | From The Grave | Dying Victims Productions

 

    Iron Spell is a traditional heavy metal band from Santiago, Chile, formed in 2013 by drummer and composer Felipe Carvajal, also known as Steelhammer. The original idea behind the project was to create a classic heavy metal album that channeled the dark theatrical atmosphere of bands like King Diamond and Black Sabbath while embracing the flamboyant spirit of ‘70s and ‘80s hard rock, such as KISS, Alice Cooper, Twisted Sister, and W.A.S.P. However, the band faced early setbacks due to lineup issues, and their planned debut album was scaled back into the four-track EP “Heavy Metal Witchcraft.”

The EP’s online release attracted attention quickly and was reissued in Europe in multiple formats, with German label Dying Victims Productions leading the charge. Since then, Iron Spell has made a steady climb in the underground scene. Their first full-length, “Electric Conjuring” (2016), featured none other than Richie Faulkner of Judas Priest, further boosting their reputation. The band kept up momentum with the “Live Magic After Midnight” EP and a best-of compilation in 2021. Their second full-length, “From The Grave,” arrives after a long wait, presenting a clearer picture of the band’s musical identity and vision.

"From The Grave" is a direct and energetic heavy metal album that draws heavily from the spirit of the ‘80s. Every song feels like a tribute to that era, filled with theatrical vocals, galloping riffs, sing-along choruses, and horror-inspired themes. The album moves from slower, moodier pieces to faster, more urgent tracks with natural flow, offering a well-balanced variety throughout.

The production supports the music well, with an organic feel that suits their retro sound. The twin guitar work of Terry and Raiden is tight and melodic, shifting between driving rhythms and classic soloing. Ivlock keeps the low end steady, while Steelhammer, the founding drummer, brings lively fills and consistent pacing to the songs. But it’s Merciless who steals much of the attention with his dynamic, high-range vocals. He tells each story with flair and emotion, making the songs feel like mini horror tales with a theatrical twist.

Each track has a strong identity, whether it leans toward traditional heavy metal, speed metal, or something more rock-oriented. The band doesn’t rush—each composition is given space to develop, and the mood builds nicely as the album progresses. The final track, “Children Of The Night,” adds a dramatic ending that feels fitting, almost like the closing scene of a horror movie.

There’s a strong sense of unity in sound and image. The horror theme isn’t overdone, but it gives the album a clear concept that ties the songs together. Combined with the album artwork by Claudio Bergamin, it forms a solid aesthetic that fans of vintage metal and dark rock will appreciate. Zombies are ready to attack.

"From The Grave" doesn’t try to complicate things—it delivers classic heavy metal with passion and personality. The songs are enjoyable, easy to follow, and packed with the kind of energy that works both on album and on stage. It’s the kind of album that plays like a long-lost vinyl gem from the golden years of metal, dug up and revived with fresh intensity.

Score: 8.3