Mass - 'Fighter'

Mass is a melodic metal band from Boston that's been around since 1981. They released a couple of albums in the '80s, then resurfaced a few years ago. Their debut album was released in 1985, but it wasn't really their debut album. A few years prior, they were signed to a different label, and due to creative and legal issues, the album was shelved. Finally, almost 30 years later, Fighter is seeing the light of day. (Not to be confused with Metal Fighter, released by the German metal band also called Mass in 1983.)

A few of the songs on Fighter would appear on New Birth, but even those songs sound different here. Mass plays classic '80s metal, with huge hooks and ample guitars. Vocalist Louis D'Augusta has a strong voice and a wide range. He generally sings in a middle range, but periodically will belt out a powerful high note.

Fighter mixes up more intense songs like “Too Far Gone” with accessible rock based tracks such as “Do You Love Me.” The power ballad “Can You See It Again” did not appear on what became their debut, but sounds like it could have been a hit. The album was produced by Tom Allom (Judas Priest), and the recording budget was pretty substantial for an unknown band in the early '80s, so the sound quality is good.

If you were into Christian metal or melodic metal in the '80s, you may remember Mass. Fighter is a worthy album that fans of the band will want to acquire. It will also appeal to those who appreciate the catchy, somewhat over the top, mainstream hard rock/metal from that era.

(released January 25, 2011 on Retroactive Records)

Disclosure: A review copy was provided by the publisher. For more information, please see our Ethics Policy.