Blind Guardian are easily one of the most consistent metal bands of their age. As far as I'm concerned they haven't had a dud release since their debut in 1988. That's eight albums, one live album, a dvd, a best of and a handful of singles. Blind Guardian have hit their mark every single time. What's more, 'A Night At The Opera' was their most recent effort (in 2002) and was the best release of their careers. I'm not sure what the future holds for the band (who have, after 18 years, parted ways with drummer Thomen Stauch) but as I wait for the next studio release I thought I would take a look back in time to where it all began.

'Battalions Of Fear' is the album that started it all and having had the pleasure of hearing the entire 1986 'Battalions Of Fear' 5-track demo (under the old band name of Lucifer's Heritage) that resulted in the inking of their first album deal with No Remorse Records, I can safely say that Blind Guardian have been a great band their entire careers.

'Majesty' is the album opener, commencing with a quick redneck carnival music sample before getting into a thrashy drum beat and matching riffage. In essence, this is Speed Metal with touches of Power (most notably in vocals) at its best. The first track features absolutely excellent riffs and solos (care of Andre Olbrich and Marcus Siepen) and despite the murky album production, Hansi's underdeveloped-yet-powerful vocals (and bass) and Thomas's drumming combine for an impressive seven and a half minute introduction to Blind Guardian. 'Battalions Of Fear' could not have got off to a better start.

Next up is 'Guardian Of The Blind' (almost a self-titled track) and despite nice guitar work it remains solid but not overly memorable. Admittedly, following up to such a strong opening track is no easy task but personally the second track doesn't blow me away. 'Trail By The Archon' however, is another story. The instrumental track runs a little short of two minutes and makes for a good excuse for guitar wankery (which makes up the meat of the song I might add) and serves as a flowing and seamless introduction to the next song. The opening riffs of 'Trial By The Archon' are excellent and they're backed up by more guitar solidity before transitioning into 'Wizard's Crown'. The track starts off solidly but really comes into its own around the halfway mark where synchronised guitars provide some ear candy and are reinforced by an even stronger ending. The same can be said for 'Run For The Night' which is really elevated by the solo that comes towards the last quarter of the track and the ensuing chorus. As 'The Martyr' winds up you'll have noticed the distinct pattern Blind Guardian stick to. The mid-to-late-song solo really has the ability to add to each track and a great chorus and ending is merely the icing on the cake.

The 39-minute album winds up with more of the same (this is a good thing), highlighted by the instrumental tracks 'By The Gates Of Moria' and to a lesser extent, 'Gandalf's Rebirth'.

While this album isn't brilliant and does sound a little raw, amid the somewhat underdeveloped sound there are many moments of excellence which would later shine in subsequent releases. As far as debuts go, 'Battalions Of Fear' is more than Blind Guardian could possibly have hoped for.