(AFM Records) Total Time: 58:11
"Mastercutor” substantially belongs to this category of albums that are unfortunately released in our days. In other words, I strongly believe that if this album had been recorded ten or fifteen years ago, then it would deservedly claim a space between the all-time classic records of our favorite music. No, I’m not exaggerating. Listen to this album and you’ll soon realize that U.D.O accomplished what Judas Priest didn’t, after the “Painkiller” period.
Those who, throughout these years, have followed each U.D.O’s step might understand what I mean. The pattern, regarding the three previous releases remains the same, but this time things are different. U.D.O finally managed to overtake the mediocrity that characterized the past and created a result that even the most optimistic of their fans couldn’t expect.
The album starts with the homonymous song that starts out with a TV show type of music before the heavy metal holocaust begins. Guitars like razors, pounding drums, and a choir chorus don’t let you take a breath. “The Wrong Side Of Midnight” comes next. A classic heavy metal song influenced by eastern tunes. “Master Of Disaster” follows and the metal invasion never seems to stop. The combinational use of special sound effects, beautiful choir refrains and the devilish vocals of Udo creates maybe the most powerful moment of the album. “The Instigator” is substantially the point where “The Knights Of The Cross” of Grave Digger meets “Painkiller”. “One Lone Voice” and “Tears Of A Clown” are the two beautiful ballads of the album. Clear vocals, beautiful solos and use of piano and cello. “We Do For You”, “The Devil Walks Alone”, Dead Man’s Eyes”, “Crash Bahn Crash” continue at the same heavy motive. “Vendetta” is a slow heavy song that brings to mind the legendary days of Accept and finally “Walker In The Dark” is maybe the weirdest and darkest moment of the whole album. I should not forget to mention the perfect production that accent the songs’ power and quality.
In the age of 55, Udo Dirckschneider seems to be in a very good shape. He and his band give lessons of pure heavy metal and, at the same time, prove that nowadays there are still people who know how to do it right. This might be the favorite moment of the year, especially for nostalgic fans.
