The one and only Acid, formed in Bruges in 1980 (and initially called Precious Page), is widely considered to be one of the very first speed metal bands on the European continent. Lead vocalist Kate de Lombaert, guitarists Dirk Simoens (Dizzy Lizzy) and Donald Devers (Demon), bassist Peter (T-Bone) and drummer Geert (Anvill) recorded three highly regarded albums for Giant Records – Acid (1983), Maniac (also 1983) and Engine Beast (1985) – before breaking up sometime in the mid-80s.
Resurrecting Kate’s Acid
In 2019, Kate decided to resurrect the band and fast-forward to the current day, and Hellbender is the name of the first studio album by the new formation Kate’s Acid. The record features nine compositions, together with a new band line-up, and offers up a mix of 80s speed and traditional heavy metal, combining old-school sensibilities with a modern clear production.
This album takes me back to 80s style metal and I like this very much. Some bangers here and I must say it’s hard to single out any faves as they are all good. However, The Lightning Conductor, Do Not Burn The Witch and the closing ballad (yes we have a ballad) Air Raid do edge it for me at the moment.
Kate’s Acid: “An album full of consistently great tunes”
For an album full of consistently great tunes, Kate de Lombaert’s awesome vocals remain a focal point. I can’t speak for myself, but I have been informed that she sounds as powerful as she did 40 years ago. If 80s style metal is your cuppa tea, then this record is worth checking out.
Tracklist
- Hellbender
- Taking Back My Wings
- The Lightning Conductor
- Riding Out
- Do Not Burn the Witch
- Valkyrie
- Buccaneers
- Stormchaser
- Air Raid
Line Up
- Kate De Lombaert – Vocals
- Geert Annys – Guitars
- Camilo “Thunder Screamer” Ortega – Bass
- Ashley “Ash” Ysewyn – Drums