RAM / PORTRAIT · Under Command | BLACK/RED LP

Black/red vinyl in standard cover.

(Black Cross on Blood Red Vinyl)

Background information about 'Under Command'

What happens when two of Sweden's finest traditional heavy metal acts join forces for a split release? You get "Under Command" – a glorious, fist-pumping celebration of all things loud, fast, and leather-clad. RAM and PORTRAIT, both torchbearers of the classic NWOBHM and early 80s metal sound, deliver a masterclass in raw energy and melodic mayhem here.

The RAM side kicks off with the ferocious title track "Under Command", a galloping, riff-driven monster that sounds like it was ripped straight from 1984. Vocalist Oscar Carlquist snarls and wails with a charisma that channels the spirit of the era without ever sounding like a mere copycat. PORTRAIT counters with their own brand of occult-tinged heavy metal – think Mercyful Fate meeting Judas Priest in a dimly lit basement. Their contribution "In The Crypts" is a haunting, mid-tempo crusher with eerie melodies and a chorus that burrows deep into your skull.

What makes this split so special is the chemistry. Both bands share a love for the classic tropes – dual guitar harmonies, pounding basslines, and drums that hit like a sledgehammer – yet each brings a distinct personality to the table. It's a duel of equals, a friendly firefight of riffs and solos that leaves the listener craving more. If you worship at the altar of 80s heavy metal, this is essential listening.

For fans of:
Mercyful Fate, Judas Priest, Enforcer, Angel Witch, Iron Maiden

Track listing

RAM

1. Savage Machine (new song)
2. Welcome To My Funeral (PORTRAIT cover)
3. Creatures Of The Night (KISS cover)

PORTRAIT

1. Martial Lead (new Song)
2. Blessed To Be Cursed (RAM cover)
3. Aggressor (EXCITER cover)

Limited bone coloured / red splatter vinyl, ltd. 250

Manufacturer: Metal Blade Records GmbH, Friedrichstr. 38, 73033 Göppingen, Germany, Contact: www.metalblade.com