1. "Death Tone"
Let's face it, if the first thing you hear on an album is the sound of Harleys firing up, you should know that the music that follows is probably high-caliber. This album is no exception. This is a great (although vastly underrated) highway cruising song, if you ask me. It's also a perfect way to start off a classic Manowar album like this one. "Sittin' in leather, riding on steel..."

2. "Metal Daze"
This is the first of what would become a tradition: the Manowar Metal Anthem. As such, it sets the standard for all the other anthems that the band has put on their albums. While Joey, Ross, and Donnie are playing their hearts out, Eric's screaming vocals let the world know what this band is all about: high-octane, loud N proud True Metal. It's a message that the band has been true to for over 20 years, and I applaud them for that.

3. "Fast Taker"
This one sounds pretty similar to the previous track, which is a good thing in my opinion. True to it's title, it's a fast-paced tune about being your own individual and going against the Establishment. But then again, isn't that what heavy metal is all about? Needless to say, this is another classic.

4. "Shell Shock"
Right from Ross' killer riff at the beginning, it's plain that the song is going to be as serious as its title suggests. This track is a definite product of it's time, with the story of the Vietnam vet and everything. However, that's part of why I like it so much, the whole Rambo concept. On top of that, it just plain ROCKS!

5. "Manowar"
For those of you who don't read the liner notes that come with this CD before listening to the music, this track does a reasonably good job of informing the listener how this band came to be, as well as it's future aspirations. I'd say they hit the nail on the head in regards to fulfilling those aspirations. A solid song worthy of the band's name and reputation.

6. "Dark Avenger"
Here is where the band starts to show its dark side. From Joey's sinister opening bass intro to Orson Welles' haunting narration, this is one of the first examples of what would become a Manowar staple: songs about "burning, death, destruction," directed toward all those that might question their authority or message. This early masterpiece will give you chills, believe me!

7. "William's Tale"
For those of you who want to know just how expertly a bass guitar can be played, you need only to listen to Joey DeMaio's version of the William Tell Overture. It will blow your mind, whether you've heard any other examples of his solo basswork or not. In addition, I find it very fun to listen to.

8. "Battle Hymn"
I always imagine this song being played right before an epic war is to be fought on some mythical battleground. Needless to say, this is the band's first example of just how majestic they can be. Eric Adams' vocal goes from being hard-edged and purposeful to soft and melodic and back, and Joey, Ross, and Donnie follow suit beautifully. Everything is incredibly tight here, making for an excellent closer for this album.