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Stronger than Evil (1983)
Heavy Load, a Swedish band formed in 1976, reached their peak with their third L.P., Stronger than Evil, released in October 1983. This album delivers an organic early ’80s heavy metal sound that feels natural rather than overproduced like much of what came later. It brings to mind the atmosphere of Mercyful Fate’s first album, with instruments that have room to breathe. The riffs have a definite NWOBHM vibe, and the vocals stay melodic without crossing into the over-the-top screams the '80s are known for.
The songs that got me into the band, "The King" and "Roar of the North", possess a rather epic and almost sombre feeling. This is more pronounced on "Dreaming", a much slower track that contrasts the more energetic and upbeat material throughout the record. There are a lot of memorable riffs and vocal melodies on Stronger than Evil and it's clear that Heavy Load really found themselves here, so it’s a shame they split up after this album. Fans of classic heavy metal should definitely check it out.
The songs that got me into the band, "The King" and "Roar of the North", possess a rather epic and almost sombre feeling. This is more pronounced on "Dreaming", a much slower track that contrasts the more energetic and upbeat material throughout the record. There are a lot of memorable riffs and vocal melodies on Stronger than Evil and it's clear that Heavy Load really found themselves here, so it’s a shame they split up after this album. Fans of classic heavy metal should definitely check it out.
(21 May 2025)
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