DISCIPLE: The Lost Disciple
One of the “disciples” of the late 80’s Christian metal/rock revolution, Disciple (Australia) was originally a secular cover band dating back to 1982 which later evolved into a Christian metal band in 1987. Sacred Knights was a cassette demo only recording which was remastered in 2012 along with the 7” single tracks by the band and distributed online.
This is the 2024 CD treatment by Bill Bafford and Roxx Records (with the help of Rob Colwell) featuring a 16-page booklet with liner notes, never seen photos and lyrics. Additionally, the final track on this edition has never previously been released.
Musically, this is a mix of hard rock with a melodic vibe and power metal. Vocalist Niels Johnson has a similar style and tone to Philadelphia’s Brian Clark. Not surprisingly, this Disciple’s sound resonates deeply with the mix/style of Philadelphia. The lyrics are consistent with much of the material that bands from this explosive era of Christian metal were espousing – a mix of praise and evangelical exhortation.
The songs from the original demo cassette sound very good to excellent and the musical execution is similarly great. There is a nice balance in the production mix with all instruments and the vocalist equally and easily heard in the soundscape. And this recording sounds good at both low and higher volumes.
“At the Foot of the Cross” – from the 7” single – with its dynamic, more progressive structure and impactful message – is the highlight track both lyrically and musically. The B-side “I Wanna See ‘Em There” showcases the other side of Disciple with an upbeat and positive musical vibe. The CD closes out with the deeply confessional/evangelical “No More Losin’.”
Overall, The Lost Disciple represents yet another wonderfully rescued and lovingly restored collection of songs from a band which, like so many others at the time, exited the scene prematurely.
Sacred Knights (Cassette Only)
1. Always on my Mind (3:36)
2. Don’t Give Up (3:07)
3. Sacred Knights (3:41)
4. Meant to Be (4:01)
5. Victory (4:13)
6. Power and Glory (3:55)
7. Never Too Far Gone (3:44)
8. The Only Love (3:47)
9. Kingdom of the Lord (4:09)
7” Single
10. The Foot of the Cross (6:20)
11. I Wanna See ‘Em There (4:18)
Bonus
12. No More Losin’ (4:36)
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