Armor of Light

Armor of Light is the sixteenth album, on which the post-Reale Riot V made Riot's traditions of speed metal, twin guitars and melodic sense even surer. It was made with Todd Michael Hall (vocals), Mike Flyntz and Nick Lee (guitar), Don Van Stavern (bass) and Frank Gilchriest (drums). Hall's high, soaring voice and the aggressive harmonies of the guitars give the songs a valiant brilliance. Songs like "Victory" and "Heart of a Lion" are played with modern precision while keeping the momentum of 1980s US metal. Respect for the past is strong, but it does not stay mere nostalgia, showing the vitality of a band playing now. The album earned high regard mainly in Europe, reaching number 27 on the German charts. A high-energy power metal work that carries the spirit in the band's name to the next generation.