Virgin Steele - The Marriage Of Heaven And Hell Part 1

After the uncharacteristic (and ordinary) LIFE AMONG THE RUINS, Virgin Steele kicked back into gear with this album, the first part of two, said to be about the relationship between humanity and the divine. Or something like that.
This record (and its sequel) is seen by some as something as a landmark in metal, but I confess I don't quite understand that. I don't hear much that's particularly revolutionary or new, and I do find that a bit disappointing.
However, having said all that, I still think this is a really top album! With some terrific guitar riffs, and David DeFeis' powerful vocals, even at 70 minutes it holds the attention throughout.  "Last Supper" is the song with, to me, the clearest lyrics, concentrating on Jesus eating with His disciples soon before His arrest and death while, musically speaking, such songs as "Weeping Of The Spirits" and, towards the end, "Blood Of The Saints" and "Life Among The Ruins", are well worth the entry fee.
Overall, it is a consistent, powerful listen, even if it's hard to work out how Heaven and Hell are getting married.

****