I confess I had difficulties to start this review unbiased. Why? Because the really embarrassing cover (badly drawn too) with its ingratiation to long forgotten (thank God) action figures, the dim-witted pseudonyms plus the ultra daft photos and the band info did everything else than invite to something enjoyable.
Epic death metal says the info… Let’s face it: on death metal only the singing reminds a bit and this one is – although the guy growls – way too good. Besides, the guitars (not low-tuned) are characteristically of old metal classics, especially of the German school of the 80’s and old Iron Maiden. Unfortunately GRAILKNIGHTS are light-years away from originality and spirit of these old acts. Instead it sounds like Rolf Zuckowski wanted to do a metal album. That in fact means to get heavy guitars but the result, regarding the songwriting, would have been only acceptable within the pre-school age. And even there one can get better stuff.
For the rest of the mankind only one possibility is left: don’t take it serious (so the band does not too) and use Return To Castle Grailskull as party album at an alcohol level of 2 per mill and above. No epic feeling comes up; this album lacks of good melodies, a certain quantum of dignity and the power metal riffing is floppy. And for a stirring party feeling the announced mighty battle-choir as in Fight Until You Die and the title track is too weak and bromidic. At least the production can be called well-done. Anyway…
…They twit Manowar with a hidden bonus track (I could not resist to tell you that ;)) in presenting the semi ballad Home At Last in a German sung version. That brings GRAILKNIGHTS points of sympathy, but more is not to find on the credit-site. Sums up to 4 points. With 4 per mill I’d give 6…