The German heavy metal legends Grave Digger have made an intriguing statement with their new album Bone Collector, claiming they are “back to the roots.” Considering the band’s 45-year history and over 20 albums, it’s a bold assertion, especially after a string of releases that seemed to follow a more formulaic approach. One noticeable shift in Bone Collector is the absence of keyboards, with Marcus Kniep focusing solely on drumming. Additionally, the album steers clear of the bold, experimental tracks like “Zombie Dance.” While such experiments were fun in their time, they’re better left as one-offs, and Chris Boltendahl, the band’s sole original member, likely understands this better than anyone. What’s abundant on Bone Collector is pure metal: heavy metal, speed metal, and even some thrash-inspired moments. Compared to recent works, this album is undeniably heavier.

The album starts with the title track, “Bone Collector,” which delivers an immediate punch with its pummeling drums, solid bass, and aggressive riffs. Chris Boltendahl’s voice, though aged, retains a commanding power that still fits the band’s raw sound. Following up, “The Reach, The Poor, The Dying” picks up the pace, evolving into a blistering speed metal anthem. The chorus is catchy, yet the driving intensity of the track makes it a standout. Meanwhile, “Killing Is My Pleasure” continues the momentum with another fast-paced banger, offering a melodic and infectious chorus that will have listeners singing along. “The Devil’s Serenade” evokes an 80s classic heavy metal vibe, with memorable hooks, melodic riffs, and a guitar solo that feels right at home in that era. The riffing here even draws parallels to the early works of Accept. On the track “Forever Evil & Buried Alive,” Grave Digger channels some Motörhead influences, particularly in Chris’s vocal delivery, which resembles Lemmy’s distinctive style—rough around the edges but effective. The song’s pacing, with its raw energy, is reminiscent of the gritty spirit of Motörhead’s Inferno album.

“Mirror Of Hate” provides a brief respite from the relentless heaviness, offering more melodic choruses balanced with ominous riffs. Here, Chris opts for a lower vocal register, fitting the song’s dark tone, though it’s evident that hitting those low notes is becoming more challenging for him. “Made Of Madness” begins deceptively slow, with an acoustic riff and a melodic bass line that gradually transforms into a whirlwind of speed metal riffs, propulsive drumming, and Jens Becker’s solid bass work that drives the track forward. Bone Collector may not fully deliver on the promised “back to the roots” approach, but it does lean closer to the band’s earlier sound while embracing a heavier, faster, and grittier edge. It’s a straightforward album that taps into classic 80s metal, arguably one of the band’s strongest outings in recent years. While it’s not a flawless masterpiece and includes some filler tracks, fans disappointed by the band’s previous albums will find much to appreciate here. For long-time followers, Bone Collector is a welcome return to form and will be released on January 17th.