Armored Saint – La Raza (Metal Blade) ****1/2

It’s been nearly 10 years since the last Armored Saint record, and ten years for the one before that. It seems like we can count on some new Saint music every ten years. In all seriousness, each new Armored Saint album is truly a miracle, as the band is not an active project. Two of its key members being involved with other acts, the time for Armored Saint is limited or not available at all. Now, with John Bush not being in Anthrax anymore, the timing couldn’t be better.

La Raza is a very in your face record, but it’s an album showing certain growth and maturity. Yes, it is a heavy metal record, but it has moments stretching beyond the usual norm, and with good results. Filled with melodic riffs; John Bush’s vocals are like the icing on the cake. Much has to be said about the quality of his singing here. John Bush’s voice sounds here in its full glory. It’s something Anthrax’s music never fully allowed him to do. Proving once more, he is one of the more colorful vocalists of the genre.

Armored Saint hits you with all of its might. The band appears to be in great health despite its somewhat sad history. They are one of the survivors, and still full of passion and energy. Let’s hope few more record follow.

Mark Kadzielawa