By: AvNatten

Posted: Oct 11, 2005

Udo Dirkschneider is a metal legend who rose to glory as the vocalist for Accept. He has not grown mellow with age on this, his tenth album under the U.D.O. moniker entitled "Mission No. X". This is pure unadulterated heavy metal with the catchy, classic sounds we have come to expect from Udo and he delivers.

Udo sounds as angry and savage as ever, especially on '24/7' which is a straight up heavy metal anthem with lots of energy. The guitar work done by Igor Gianola and Stefan Kaufman, the latter whom you may also remember from his time with Accept, is full of power and to the point which suits the songs perfectly. Their playing and tone helps to lend this recording its classic feeling, though there are variations which keep things from being stale. They have also contributed some great solos and lead work to the release which adds to the punch these tracks deliver. This Album also marks the introduction of new drummer Francesco Jovino, his drum work is very fluid and hard hitting, it sounds as if he has always been a member. The bass notes played by Fitty Wienhold sound warm and full, most notably on 'Eye Of The Eagle'.

Two ballads are also included. The one that stands out the most is the aforementioned 'Eye Of The Eagle' which is an ode to mother nature and her majestic beauty. Its sing-along chorus instantly catches on and stays in your head. 'Primecrime On Primetime' offers yet another song with great hooks that will stay with you as well as some nice guitar leads and great tempo shifts. 'Mad For Crazy' is in your face and full of energy as the instruments charge forth from your speakers and Dirkschneider spits forth the lyrics viciously like only he can, singing that he is "made to rock" and that is definitely true.

The band as a whole sound solid and are in top form, running like a well oiled machine. The songs are well written and are easy to get into even upon the first listen. This would be a great album to listen to while driving with the wind in your hair and the volume cranked up. U.D.O. has done it again by giving the fans the energetic pure heavy metal that they crave.

Rating: 8/10

U.D.O. website

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