Label: Rhino
Released: October 2, 2007
The trouble with this four CD box set is that it splits the difference between serious and cursory metal fans, probably only half-pleasing each camp. The serious metal fan is less likely to be interested, but may find a few gems over the course of the four discs. Certainly Tygers of Pan Tang or Angel Witch aren’t in everyone’s collection. For those who missed the 80s, there are also some interesting inclusions that are currently running a little pricey on Ebay. It also digs into the roots of metal with Iron Butterfly and Blue Cheer. Still, the vast majority of these tracks would show up in even a moderately complete collection.
For the cursory metal fan, there are far too many tracks that dig down under the surface. Someone with only a passing interest in metal or a bit of nostalgia for days gone by might be thrilled to hear “Metal Health” or “Round and Round” again, it is unlikely that Overkill or Manowar hold the same interest.
The Heavy Metal Box does do a good job of crossing sub-genres and the ocean, serving up songs by everyone from lightweights like Poison to the heaviest of the heavy like Sepultura and everything in between. It also bridges the Atlantic, drawing on bands that were popular here in the states as well as those who only made inroads in Europe. Depending on your interest, this could be a mixed blessing. After all, there isn’t a lot of crossover between Cinderella and Testament.
The package, styled after a Marshall head, does look cool, but that only masks the mixed bag inside. In trying to be all things to all people, The Heavy Metal Box is unlikely to really please anyone.
Rating: 5/10
Here’s a promo video: