Rozario: Northern Crusaders

Here in our hive mind, we are fortunate enough to only have to review stuff that at least one of us likes. If we all think it sucks, we are unlikely to write about it.

Fortunately, that wasn't a problem with Rozario's second album, "Northern Crusaders," due for release February 20th. There was a little something for all of us in there.

Overall, we'd describe it as a fusion of the best of 80's pre-sleaze heavy metal. There are clear influences from and respectful nods to especially the American, German, British and Swedish greats of the era...but of course with Rozario's own unique style.

Our biggest issue was with the mixing. Especially on the opening track the drums drown out the guitars and vocals, and it's not the type of song where that would be intentional. But, since the version we heard was pre-release, they might have fixed that.

From heavy riffs, through sweet guitar solos, to surprisingly versatile vocals and chorus, this album has it all. For the nostalgic, and our cerebral asylum is heavy on nostalgia, the vinyl seems to have a lyrics leaflet as well (which many new releases have inexplicably dropped). The lyrics don't always match 100%, but that's pretty authentic 80's too.

We give it eight flaming skulls.

Rattus Petrificus,
February 10th, 2026