Year: 2022
Total Time: Vic Records
Label: 48:10

“Iron Tears” was the debut demo of the veteran metallers FLOTSAM & JETSAM since 1985. The 4 track “Metal Shock” demo (1985) contains the only recordings of the tracks “The Evil Sheikh'” and “The Beast Within”! Those two demos were released in 1985 and paved the way for a deal with Metal Blade Records, followed by the release of the legendary debut “Doomsday For the Deceiver”.

This special edition features a 16-page inlay with rare photos and an extensive interview with founding member Kelly Smith, three live bonus tracks from 1984 and 1985, including “Hammerhead” live on Jason Newsted’s apartment (1985) and “She Took An Axe” (live on Pony Express 1985). 9 pieces in total. These tracks have been re-released in the expanded special edition of their first album as bonus material. The sound although raw has a relatively good production for that era. In addition, the “hidden treasures” “The Evil Sheikh”” and “The Beast Within” are quite imaginative compositions.

For most of you, perhaps this move will appear as a “grab” because it contains the same tracks either in demo or a live form. But surely this album is definitely interesting for collectors and metalheads who want to dig deeper into the early days of a band that started with Jason Newsted, the former bassist of METALLICA/OZZY OSBOURNE and want to have old and raw material gathered and “neat” in an unaltered release.

Rating: N/Α
Editor: Nikos Mathiopoulos
Related Link: FLOTSAM & JETSAM – Official Page