Golden Absolution by Sergeant Steel (Metalapolis Records)

Golden Absolution by Sergeant Steel (Metalapolis Records)

Hailing from the Austrian rock scene, Sergeant Steel has proudly been carrying the torch for high-energy hard rock and roll since their formation in 2007. Their latest opus, Golden Absolution, is packed to the brim with arena-sized anthems, soaring melodies, and enough fist-pumping hooks to satisfy even the most devoted rock fan. It comes as no surprise that, as you read this, Sergeant Steel is crisscrossing Europe on the Rock & Roll Salvation Tour, sharing stages with the likes of CoreLeoni and Tyketto.

From the opening refrains of the roaring “1000 Lives” to the triumphant sense of perseverance coursing through “Back On The Track,” Golden Absolution immediately establishes itself as an album built for the live stage. Every riff, chorus, and rhythm seems tailor-made to ignite festival crowds and club audiences alike.

The momentum never lets up. Wickedly infectious cuts such as “Teeny Meany” and the towering “Hold Your Fire” leave a lasting impression, delivering the kind of memorable choruses that linger long after the music has stopped. “Lonely Street of Broken Hearts” finds Sergeant Steel embracing a bluesier side with equal parts style and swagger, while “Catch That Train” barrels forward with unstoppable energy and determination.

Elsewhere, “Stay With Me” evokes comparisons to classic acts such as The Black Crowes and The Rolling Stones, yet Sergeant Steel never loses sight of its own vibrant identity. The album closes on a particularly strong note, with the heartfelt emotion of “Wireless” paving the way for the rip-roaring grand finale, “Dying Love,” a fitting conclusion to this hard-hitting collection of songs.

Every member of the Sergeant Steel brigade delivers the goods with passion, precision, and a thunderous sense of conviction. Vocalist Phil Vanderkill leads the charge with confidence and charisma, while guitarists Jack Power and Chuck Boom unleash a barrage of riffs and solos throughout. Ben Bateman’s keyboards add depth and atmosphere, MJ Star’s bass work provides a rock-solid foundation, and drummer Cøsy Cøxx drives the entire affair forward with relentless power.

Here’s hoping Sergeant Steel makes its way to the United States in the near future. Until then, Golden Absolution serves as the perfect introduction to a band firing on all cylinders. Turn it up loud, buckle in, and let Sergeant Steel’s hard-rocking force shake your world.

(Review by Ken Morton)

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