Reviewed by Ian Bosworth

Described as "The definitive collection of Christian Heavy Metal... the loudest music in the kingdom", this pair of discs presents 31 tracks covering a huge spectrum of bands, from Resurrection Band's "Waves" of 1978 to the grindcore/death metal sound of Mortification. Although the most raucous styles miss the mark for me (I like to hear some of the words!) this collection has introduced new music to me that I would previously have avoided. This is a fine selection of cuts, encompassing groups like Saint, Bloodgood, Shout, X-Sinner, Tourniquet and Believer. Here you can find a wealth of class material to bang your head to, the only problem may be finding somewhere to play it loud enough. Also included in the boxed set is a helpful booklet featuring interviews with the bands taken from America's fine fanzine Heaven's Metal, plus photos and background info to clue you up. Doug Van Pelt, editor of Heaven's Metal, has compiled this collection to bring some of the finest rock music together for your delectation. If you'd thought all Christian metal was AC/DC retreads this superlative compilation is going to shock your socks off.

The opinions expressed in this article are not necessarily those held by Cross Rhythms. Any expressed views were accurate at the time of publishing but may or may not reflect the views of the individuals concerned at a later date.

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