The White Wizzard are not the new kids on the block. A year ago, they released a very good mini titled “High Speed GTO” and put their name on the map of the classic Metal revival comprising of several bands of late. Passing the visually funny video, the Americans presented a solid, melodic metal album with references to the English style of the pioneering Iron Maiden, Judas Priest and Saxon, while there certainly was an American hard and heavy bit out of bands like W.A.S.P. Motley Crue and Armored Saint, through floating melodies and traditional intros.

The “Over The Top” (again via Earache Records) has no room for change. The White Wizzard style does not evolve, stating its love for the 80s classic Metal. The most important factor is that they do not use a primitive way to do it but line up a set of songs that nowhere short of many similar bands, except from the gigantic pioneers.

To make a long story short. Lots of technique and a good production which is not crystal clear but purposely retro, White Wizzard are not original, however they do not connive either. They love the retro style and they are not ashamed of it. And even if, for me, the “Over The Top” sounds a bit inferior to their debut EP, with a close and repetitive listen, the new album of the Americans cannot be doubted.