Fighter

In 1982 the band Axes entered the Criteria Studios in Miami, Florida, together with renowned producer Tom Allom (Judas Priest, Def Leppard), to record their debut album for A&M Records. The boys were merely 19 years old, and thought they had the world at their feet. Unfortunately they were under the mercy of a manager that A&M Records didn't want anything to do with. They shelved the album until the time they showed up with a different manager. The band spent almost 3 years trying to get out of their contract with him, and ended up having to file for bankruptcy. Also the name Axes had to be scrapped. When the band reappeared as Mass, A&M Records were no longer interested, and their debut album remained shelved for almost 30 years!

During the early '80's two distinct metal movements emerged. In England you had the NWOBHM scene, and in the US you had the Sunset Strip and the hair metal movement. When Mass recorded 'Fighter' in 1982 the latter scene was about to burst! Mötley Crüe had just released their debut, 'Too Fast For Love', and every major label were looking for similar bands. Soon Ratt, Dokken and Great White ruled the airwaves with songs about long legged blondes and partying all night long! There is no doubt in my mind that Mass would have been one of these pioneering bands if 'Fighter' had been released back in 1982, when it was recorded. Not only would it have been one of the first albums in the genre released via a major label, it is also, in my book anyway, one of the best albums of it's time!

Yes, this heavy metal album is nothing short of a masterpiece, filled to the brim with hooks, melodies, shredding guitars and distinct vocals. The production is raw and alive, letting the band shine instead of the producer. Many of these songs are really heavy when compare to contemporary, similar artists. As usual with Mass, the title track sticks out as a favorite with it's infectious chorus and massive melody. Louie's passionate vocals is what sets this band apart from the masses (pun not intended). The 2010 reissue was remastered my J. Powell of Steinhaus Mastering. It brings vital life to the old songs, without loosing the raw energy of the original recording. At least 4 of the songs were later re-recorded for the bands official debut, aptly entitled 'New Birth'. Here they appear in their original form, written by these teenagers from Boston! 'Fighter' is the best melodic metal album you've never heard!

Killer tracks: Watch Her Walk, Too Far Gone, Voyager (Look For The Edge), Fighter