SHINING FORCE - Spiritual Warfare (CD) 2024 FFO: Stryper, Iced Earth, Judas Priest
- RELEASE DATE: August 30, 2024
- JEWEL CASE EDITION W/8 PAGE LYRIC BOOKLET
- Progressive Metal
- For Fans of Sacred Warrior
Shining Force's fourth full-length album, Spiritual Warfare, released in August 2024, is a standout work of US power metal and traditional metal, delivering a potent mix of stellar song selection, polished production, and commendable performances. A marked improvement over its predecessors, By The Blood (2019) and Shining Force (2003), this Pasadena, Texas-based band stays true to its mission of outreach and ministry, rooted in founding member Billy Vaughn’s mid-90s vision to serve the impoverished wards of Houston. With a revamped lineup featuring guitarist and lead vocalist Abel Molano alongside Vaughn and newcomers Chris Tooke, Arnold Cantu, and Ernie Lopez, the album embodies Shining Force’s spiritual and musical ethos. Tracks like the power metal-charged “Spiritual Warfare,” the melodic mid-paced “Savior of the World,” and a re-recorded version of their signature song “Shining Force” showcase dynamic range and thoughtful lyrics. The metal ballad “All For The One” highlights the group’s ability to balance elegance with heaviness, supported by silky-smooth production that enhances every element. Fans of Sacred Warrior, Recon, and Barren Cross will find much to enjoy in this compelling release.
Track Listing:
- Spiritual Warfare
- Savior of the World
- Shining Force
- All For The One
- Angel of Light (featuring Tim 'Ripper' Owens)
- Alive
- Seven
- Battle Hymn
- One Way In No Way Out
- King of Kings
- The Holy One