CROSS
Cross - Metal From Above (Steel Legacy)
2006
1. "Sign of the Cross"
(4:44)
2. "Metal from Above" (8:00)
3. "Deliverance" (4:34)
4. "The Ascension" (6:14)
5. "Final Journey" (10:33)
BONUS TRACKS
6. "Prisoners of War" [live] (6:29)
7. "Exodus 20" [live] (5:11)
8. "Black Death" [live] (5:00)
Cross are an American, epic, traditional metal band from Albuquerque, NM. They were together long enough to create a local following and to record a demo that created some buzz in the metal underground. They signed to a label but broke up before releasing their first full length album. I had a chance to hear some material they played live over a local radio station some years ago and was quite impressed. Being from a metal band from New Mexico myself, I was always on the lookout for their demo. Well in 2006, Steel Legacy released the original five song demo, "Metal From Above" on CD and limited edition vinyl. Musically, Cross are incredible classic/traditional heavy metal. Galloping riffs, explosive bass and drums, shredding leads, and great vocals. Reminds me of bands like Armored Saint and early Helstar. The production isn't top notch, but isn't bad for being a demo recorded in the mid-80's. The first five tracks were recorded at the same studio as Angelic Force's full length album, Alta Vista Studios in Albuquerque NM. Albuquerque was home to a lot of great Christian bands in the 1980's, many of which were never given the opportunity to record for a proper label. Besides Cross, there was Rapture, Combat Faith, Angelic Force, among others. The last three tracks are live and the production drops down to bootleg quality. These tracks are a nice addition, but not something I will spend much time listening to. However, the five demo tracks are a must have for fans of traditional heavy metal, and especially those who enjoy classic Christian heavy metal.