I could hardly believe that Gothic Knights hails from Brooklyn, NY, an area much better known for cranking out countless copycat hardcore bands and pointless rap performers.  What Gothic Knights displays on "Kingdom Of The Knights" is classy, top-notch epic power metal with Medieval and fantasy-inspired lyrics and a superb vocal assault.  While certainly original, their style clearly demonstrates influences ranging from Manowar to early Savatage, and hints of "Keeper"-era Helloween.  Album highlight "Keeper Of The Gate" is an epic battle cry against the forces of false metal with soaring melodic vocals, excellent harmony-drenched guitar soloing, and intense double-bass drumming.  Other standouts include "War In The Sky" (it's just so damn heavy) and "The Song Of Roland" (a historically-accurate song chronicling an important battle during the reign of Charlemagne).  Also, Gothic Knights' version of Judas Priest's "The Ripper" is spot-on (though I still prefer Agent Steel's version of the song from the "Mad Locust Rising" e.p.).  Topping it off is a nearly flawless production (more bass next time though, guys), a beautiful full-colour cover and great layout and design.  Hail true metal!
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