Sword were formed in Canada, by brothers Mick Hughes (vocals) and Dan Hughes (drums), guitarist Mike Plant, and bassist Mike Larock, in early 1985. Signing with local Aquarius Records, the band cut its solid, though hardly groundbreaking, debut 'Metalized' in 1986. The band's sound were a muscular brand of classic metal with tasteful riffs and Mick's rasping voice. Files alongside bands such as Warrior, Anvil and Raven.

METALIZED (1987) COMBAT/AQUARIUS

  1. F.T.W.
  2. Children Of Heaven
  3. Stoned Again
  4. Dare To Spit
  5. Outta Control
  6. The End Of The Night
  7. Runaway
  8. Where To Hide
  9. Stuck In Rock
  10. Evil Spell

Line-up:

Rick Hughes - Vocals

Mike Plant - Guitars

Mike Larock - Bass

Dan Hughes - Drums

Sword are one of those bands that are considered a classic band, but still have not become a household name in the metal scene. 'Metalized' was their first outing, and it considers nothing but Heavy Metal (notice the capitalized letter). Rick's voice reminds me at times of Nazareth's Dan McCafferty, in other words he's got this cool, raspy voice. So with its great hooks, and easy to remember songs, this album is very likeable from beginning to end. I wish more bands would continue to play this type of music.

Killer tracks: Chrildren Of Heaven, Outta Control, The End Of The Night, Where To Hide