What makes Frontal Assault by Angel Witch notable?

Frontal Assault is significant for its attempt to blend traditional heavy metal with emerging styles, reflecting the transitional phase of the genre in the mid-80s. While not achieving major commercial success, it has been recognized by metal enthusiasts and critics for its solid musicianship and has influenced later bands within the new wave of British heavy metal movement. Released in January 1986, Frontal Assault marked Angel Witch's third studio album during a time when they were navigating the changing landscape of heavy metal. Following their self-titled debut in 1980 and the sophomore effort Screaming and Bleeding in 1985, this album aimed to reestablish their presence amidst the rise of thrash and more commercial metal sounds.

Who is Frontal Assault for?

Frontal Assault works well if you're into steady mid-tempo headbanging, raw energy for road trips and melodic hooks for sing-alongs.

How many songs are on Frontal Assault?

Frontal Assault has 9 tracks, running approximately 41 minutes.

Released 40 years ago

Frontal Assault

Angel Witch · 1986

41 min · 9 tracks · heavy metal

A fierce blend of melodic riffs and powerful vocals delivering a raw energy that defines the spirit of 80s heavy metal.

Spotify Apple Music

YouTube Music YouTube Deezer Bandcamp SoundCloud

Own it: Amazon eBay

Top tracks — play these first

→
Frontal Assault — The title track showcases the band's signature sound with its driving rhythm and memorable hooks, setting the tone for the album's overall intensity.
→
Rendezvous With the Blade — This track stands out for its intricate guitar work and dynamic shifts, encapsulating the technical prowess that characterizes much of Angel Witch's music.
→
Religion (Born Again) — This song presents a darker theme complemented by powerful vocals, highlighting the lyrical depth and emotional range that Angel Witch explores in their work.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

44 /100

Lowland

Higher than 4% of albums we've rated

The album blends traditional heavy metal with emerging styles but lacks standout tracks for lasting impact.

What we noticed

The album opens with a title track that features rapid tempo changes, moving from aggressive riffs to melodic interludes.
Vocals are layered with harmonies in several tracks, particularly in 'Dream World' and 'Religion (Born Again)', enhancing the melodic aspect.
The last three tracks feature a noticeable drop in tempo, creating a contrasting atmosphere compared to the earlier high-energy songs.

Composition 25% of the score: 6/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 5/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

steady mid-tempo headbanging
raw energy for road trips
melodic hooks for sing-alongs
dark themes with engaging melodies

Maybe skip if you

prefer slow, atmospheric pieces
seek instant gratification tracks

Where this album fits

Career context: Released in January 1986, Frontal Assault marked Angel Witch's third studio album during a time when they were navigating the changing landscape of heavy metal. Following their self-titled debut in 1980 and the sophomore effort Screaming and Bleeding in 1985, this album aimed to reestablish their presence amidst the rise of thrash and more commercial metal sounds.
Stylistic neighbors: Iron Maiden· Judas Priest· Diamond Head