• 1
• 2
• 3
• 4
• 5

Satan, one of the better-known of the NWOBHM bands thanks to their Court in the Act debut, has been active again the last few years and Atom by Atom is fourth full-length and second since reforming a few years ago. Unlike some of their peers, Satan have stayed essentially true to their NWOBHM roots and plays with a lot of energy punctuated by eclectic guitar work and high-pitched screams. I must admit the album didn't appeal to me at first but after repeated listens it is really growing on me. I like the aforementioned guitar work and it is definitely different with some muted picking that is a welcome departure from the norm. Satan's lyrics are a bit deeper than the average NWOBHM or retro-80s fare with the decline of mankind ("Farewell Evolution"), interpersonal struggles ("Bound in Enmity") and planetary destruction ("The Fall of Persephone") represented. I'm not normally one to get hung up on lyrics but Satan's storytelling definitely piqued my interest.

Atom by Atom is a fine album from one of the legendary NWOBHM bands that is doing justice to their early reputation rather than tarnishing it with tired, recycled material. It's modern but retains the enthusiastic vibe and garage feel of the early 80s. Recommended for all fans of 80s Heavy Metal.