Maximum Metal Rating Legend

Primal Fear has held the flag high for German traditional metal for 20-years. The band saw a bulk of its success in the 90s and 00s while signed to powerhouse label Nuclear Blast. After seven records and ten years, the band departed for Italy’s Frontiers Music. It is that period of time that is showcased by this new, greatest hits compilation aptly entitled 'Best of Fear'. Four albums over the course of ten years is historically recapped with a 26-track, 2-disc affair. Along with the culling of the Frontiers catalog are four new tracks including a cover of Heart's "If Looks Could Kill". I’d be amiss if I didn’t say I was deeply disappointed that new song "Area 16" is just a 1:47 orchestra piece. However, "Predator" and "Thrill of Speed" are solid new tracks with the trademark, heavy-handed rhythm behind Ralf's commanding charge. "If Looks Could Kill" simply kills, with some harmonized vocals to elevate Ralf to the stratosphere on "You'll be begging me please please" vocal melody. Kudos for choosing phenomenal French artist Stan Decker to create the album cover. Nothing says "Best Of" better than one of his covers.