MYSTIC PROPHECY 'In Metal'

MYSTIC PROPHECY
In Metal
2026 Perception/Reigning Phoenix Music

Germany’s MYSTIC PROPHECY is set to release their 13th studio album on November 27th. Titled ‘In Metal’, (a prepositional phrase indicating their unquestionable metal-ness), the album promises more of the same crowd-pleasing brand of heavy power metal the band is known for. Surprisingly, it’s been three and a half years since the band’s last album, ‘Hellriot’. But that’s to be understood, as band leader and vocalist Rd Liapakis has been busy with his numerous other musical projects, including his successful and ongoing stint as Michael Schenker’s touring vocalist. 

MYSTIC PROPHECY’S lineup has changed somewhat since ‘Hellriot’, with only Rd and guitarist Markus Pohl remaining from the previous lineup. New to the band is (Rd’s) fellow Devil’s Train member Dan Baune (guitar), along with former CobraKill guitarist Tommy Gun (now on bass) and FireForce member Christophe De Combe (drums). Rd’s trademark breathy melodic voice is once again the center of the songs on ‘In Metal’, with all songs 100% focusing on the refrain.

The album opens with the mechanical, technology-themed track “Robots”, a futuristic vision that warns us that “the hell is not far.” You can view the concept video HERE. The anthemic title track “In Metal” will have fists pumping from Dublin to Düsseldorf. This is the kind of hymn the band is famous for, and easily a favorite on this album. Rd’s vocals are in full command on the brothers-in-arms-themed “March or Die”, another pounding, overwhelming track that dominates the senses. Markus and Dan’s guitars are churning all over the place on “Don’t Run Away”. “Warhead” is a solid track in the MP style, and there are some interesting orchestrations mixed in with the power chords here. “Angels Are Falling” is the longest and possibly the heaviest track on the album, featuring one of Markus Pohl’s most blistering solos. “When The Hammer Will Fall” and “Warrior of Asgard” both feature a Norse mythology theme and mid-tempo stomp. “My Inner Innocence” is probably the most mellow the band gets on this album, slowing down to a more melancholy style. “Devil’s Son” is a classic example of Mystic Prophecy’s tendency to dabble in a little evil on occasion.

Bottom line: I’ve followed MYSTIC PROPHECY since the first album, and consistency is one thing they are known for. The cohesion within their entire catalog for the past 25 years is impressive. They have no bad albums, and ‘In Metal’ is no exception, this album is a success in every sense of the word. The band’s heaviness, catchiness and overall appeal are all still here, and the band’s motto of “no compromises, no holding back, just pure power” remains intact. All 10 songs are enjoyable, listenable and operate in the three to four minute range in length. If there’s any complaint to be registered, it’s that the album isn’t quite long enough, but sometimes leaving the listener wanting more is quite effective. ‘In Metal’ will please current fans and gain the band new ones as well.

4.5 Out Of 5.0