Avenger-Prayers of Steel/Depraved to Black (Noise) 1985 Prayers of Steel Avenger is Peavy's (Peter Wagner) earlier band which built the foundation for Rage. 'Prayers of Steel' was their first and only full length record. 'Depraved to Black' EP was their second and last release before being signed by Noise Records and changing the band's name. In 1995 Rage's label GUN / BMG re-released in very limited quantities "Prayers Of Steel" together with the EP "Depraved To Black" on one CD as part of a two cd set along with their new album "Black in Mind." Subsequent pressings of "Black in Mind" are a single disc without the Avenger material. As with Rage, Peavy sang for Avenger. They played speedy power metal that was not unlike other German bands like Running Wild in the mid 80's. Avenger have a strong NWOBHM influence. Hints of Motorhead's influence are also apparent. The production is a bit weak, although not terrible either, but in the early to mid 80's the production was not what was important. Back then bands were focusing more on the song writing and especially the attitude. Unfortunately part of that was writing the typical and generic 'evil' lyrics. Thankfully this would change once the band's name changed to Rage. |