In case for some unknown reason you've been living in a cave for the last quarter of a century, or perhaps your simply not as old as some of us, U.D.O. were formed in 1987 by two former members of the mighty Accept, Udo Dirkschneider (vocals) and Stefan Kaufmann (guitar for U.D.O. and formerly drummer with Accept). 'Rev Raptor' will be album number 13 for U.D.O. since their excellent debut 'Animal House' back in 1987 and albums such as 'Mean Machine', 'Faceless World' and 'Time Bomb' helped Dirkschneider to immediately gain respect with his new band post Accept. In 1992 Dirkschneider did return to Accept but in 1997 Udo continued his solo career and released the 'Solid' album. Extensive touring was the result of the continuously growing popularity of U.D.O. with the last two albums 'Mastercutor' (2007) and "Dominator" (2009) impressing with their freshness, creativity, enthusiasm and liveliness.

'Rev-Raptor' was recorded in Kauffmann's own studio and the artwork in its comic book graphic style fits perfectly with the album title, not having a clue what 'Rev-Raptor' meant I have did some research and it turns out to be something to do with the world of Zoids. The relevance becomes clear on discovering that a 'Rev-Raptor' in the Zoid world is universally recognised for its long and proud history of being the underdog, having never quite retired from service in commercial or military usage and with redeeming qualities to match its flaws it is apparently also easy to modify. In fact the career of one Herr Dirkschneider could be seen in that very same way, a universally known name in the metal world even if you aren't aware of his output, he has spent a career largely as the underdog and people's champion if you will, retirement never a consideration despite some career lows that may have come close to forcing that very situation, with plenty of redeeming qualities as a person and a frontman whilst also providing some all time metal classic songs especially during the earlier years of Accept.

Two tracks from the E.P. 'Leatherhead' which I reviewed recently are on this release, the tracks being 'Leatherhead' and 'Rock 'n' Roll Soldiers' and in my review for the E.P. I recall saying something like "if this is the quality to expect from the full album then I will already have a definite contender for my Album Of The Year", or something like that anyway.  So does 'Rev-Raptor' deliver the goods as hinted at by the E.P?  How could I have ever doubted it?

'Rev- Raptor' is nothing short of a modern day metal monster-piece.

After pushing play opening track 'Rev-Raptor' comes out of the corner fighting and spitting, building with a thunderous riff, drums snapping away, a huge memorable chorus and the unique vocals of one Udo Dirkschneider growling at you like a man possessed.   You are immediately reassured that along with his long term partner Kaufmann these guys still know how to deliver the goods and most importantly still know how to write memorable metal tracks that sound relevant, exciting and go straight for the jugular. 'Rev-Raptor' is definitely one of the finer releases from the U.D.O. catalogue as the songs are instantly memorable and catchy as hell, the production and performances from all of the band are absolutely top drawer, and Dirkschneider vocals are top notch, granted the high end screams of the past may have gone, maybe its an age thing (look at Rob Halford), but the songs perfectly fit his new vocal range, perfect example being the semi ballads 'I Give As Good as I Get' and ''Underworld'.

There is no single stand out track on 'Rev-Raptor' and there are also no fillers, such is the high standard reached throughout the thirteen tracks that make up the album, each song is top drawer and very rarely for me these days there aren't any obvious tracks for the much overused skip button. What you get for your hard earned is wall to wall metal, full of melody, monumental riffing and huge choruses, all produced by a band ready to take on the world, and when they have finished taking on this world they will of course be moving onto Zoid!!!!!!!!!!!

So a full UK tour is what we demand next, what say you Herr Dirkschneider?

http://www.myspace.com/udoonline