The first time I heard the song “Balls to the Wall” by Accept was on one of those compilation Metal albums that were put out by K-Tel in the 80s.  I still have the record, it’s called Slave to the Metal and I bought it in 1986. It’s one of those songs and albums that has stood the test of time.

Anyway, I’ve been trying to figure out how to go about composing this review. If you know the story of, Accept then you know the story of their venerable ex-lead vocalist Udo Dirkschneider. He formed UDO after leaving Accept, and its taken 40 years for the anniversary of Balls to the Wall to see the light in a fresh, new way; re-mastered versions aside this is the best version of this classic hands down.

Balls to the Wall RELOADED features a veritable laundry list of guests from Heavy Metal royalty including Biff Byford of the mighty Saxon and the always amazing Doro Pesch (ex-Warlock) to name just two. New life has been breathed into a landmark release and it all starts with the title track. If you thought that opening riff was big before, hold on to your shoes because you’re going to be blown out of them. Featuring Joakim Brodén of Sabaton it’s a fucking massive upgrade to an already classic song.

“London Leatherboys” features the aforementioned Mr. Byford and this is where I experienced a complex revelation. Hearing this in a new light after loving it for so long makes me enjoy it even more. Their part Iron Maiden, part Judas Priest delivery is brought out mightily.

The history of Heavy Metal is built on a pantheon of great riffs. Balls to the Wall RELOADED features powerhouse renditions of “Take it Back” featuring Mille Petrozza from the mighty Kreator and “Head Over Heels” featuring Nils Molin (Amaranthe, Dynazty).

Michael Kiske has always been a favorite vocalist and his delivery on “Losing More Than You’ve Ever Had” lends to the heartbreaking emotions in the song. Then there’s “Love Child” featuring Ylva Eriksson (Brothers of Metal) doing a killer vocal interplay with UDO.

This album makes me wonder if other RELOADED versions will be released, namely Metal Heart and Restless and Wild. Time will tell but for now Balls to the Wall RELOADED is delivering the 80s goods with 2000s style punch.

Rounding out the rest of the album we find “Turn Me On” with guest work of Danko Jones adding monstrous power and it’s followed by Dee Snider of Twisted Sister fame helping out on “Losers and Winners.” “Guardian Of The Night” features powerhouse vocals from Tim “Ripper” Owens and the closing track “Winter Dreams” hits a haunting vibe with Doro Pesch on guest vocals, she sounds phenomenal and finishes off Balls to the Wall RELOADED in epic fashion.

Balls to the Wall RELOADED is a great re-imagining of the original. Dirkschneider’s core band is on fire here and they make this classic album sound bigger, better and heavier than before. Pick it up and be rocked all over again!

[Visit the band's website]

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