When reviewing earlier an EP by the Spanish Vhaldemar I wasn’t aware the band had plans for a full length release to come soon thereafter. To hear more from Vhaldemar, plus experience those fiery tracks from the EP again (Old King’s Visions, I Will Stand Forever, Howling at the Moon), reveling in solos and awash in infectious melodies, was something I couldn’t pass on.

There is something to be said for good old classic heavy metal. To hear Vhaldemar give homage to Judas Priest on Metalizer reminded me why when listening to Defenders of the Faith more than 30 years ago made me fall in love with this music genre. Simple riffing, clanging metallic sounding guitars, vocalist trying to take high votes (yet needing backing vocals help), but most importantly an unbelievable amount of spirit is what makes Against All Kings a total winning proposition for classic metal fans.

Against All Kings touches on some established field references. Even though Gorgar cover is missing here, Rebel Mind still sounds like an old Helloween. Walking in the Rain is a more rambling, sadder Iced Earth, but the closest I can think of, Against All Kings will give Grave Digger a run for its money. Harsh verses offset by melodic chorus (Eye for an Eye), gallop of I Will Stand Forever and it’s anthemic chorus with the “ready to fight “ line plus Carlos Escadero’s gruff vocals makes the impression of a younger, more energetic Grave Digger complete.

Piano and longing solo of Titans in D Minor calms the feelings down, but other than that Vhaldemar delivers the fire on Against All Kings.