Aphrodite is another one of Jo Capitalicide's (here using the moniker Jo Steel) bands. This is really cool, if basic, speedy heavy metal that's firmly rooted in the old school. It's not so obvious on a casual listen, but the band's upbeat approach is actually pretty heavy as well, something that would likely be more obvious with a better production but, hey, it makes repeat listens more interesting as we discover things we didn't hear before. Their style is a little bit chaotic and has that DIY charm that is not without reminding me of the more obscure NWOBHM bands. The female vocals are courtesy of Tanza Speed. I've heard her in Demona and Outline and I can't say I'm a fan of her style but, damn, I found myself humming along her vocal lines more often than not while listening to Lust and War.

If you're into the overpolished, highly technical brand of heavy or power metal, this is probably not for you, but if you like things basic, fast, furious, catchy and just plain rocking like it's the early '80s all over again, then this is some cool underground stuff to sink your teeth into.