“Armageddon Skies” is the lone release form the US metal
outfit, Black Onyx. This single is rather obscure, which is a shame, because
like many bands that never made it past the demo or single stage, “Armageddon
Skies” is a nice little offering from a band that could have been, but never was.
The fist track, “Armageddon Skies” is a mid-paced rocker
that is carried with a simple, yet catchy riff. The drums have a consistent
pounding sound that may not be earth shattering, they are more than capable of
creating a nice beat that carries on throughout the song. Gerry Witlin’s vocals
have a nice clean sound to them, but he adds just a little rasp into his sound
at the end of his verses that give it a little more edge. The vocals as a whole
(two backing vocalists) at times, almost remind me of a classic 60’s rock and
roll ala Beach Boys sound when they harmonize their voices. It’s a nice touch.
There’s even a nice solo near the beginning and end of the track.
“Miss fire” is another solid rocker of a song, with the same
elements as the titular track. Simple riffs, pounding drums and a nice solo
near the midway point. The vocals are not as raspy as they were on “Armageddon
Skies” nor do the backing vocals make any impact. Still a very nice song.
All in all, this is an excellent hidden gem of late 80’s US
metal. I’m not sure as to why they didn’t release anything further than this
lone single, as they weren’t trying to jump on the thrash train, nor enter the
glam scene. Perhaps, that was the reason for them being overlook; their sound
simply wasn’t what was making money at the time. It’s a shame really. It’s
songs like these that need to be collected and released on a compilation of “Forgotten
Metal Singles”. Head to Youtube and give these songs a listen. If you’re a fan
of classic metal with a little rock to the core, you’ll dig this.
Highlights: Both songs are great.
Rating: 4
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