The legendary NWOBHM band, Cloven Hoof, is set to release their tenth studio album, 'Never A Prophet In Your Own Land', on September 25, 2026, via High Roller Records. This highly anticipated release marks a significant milestone for the band, as it showcases their evolution and musical versatility. The album features a diverse range of songs, from mid-tempo tracks to fast-paced anthems, epic compositions, and straight-up heavy metal rockers. The vocal prowess of Harry "The Tyrant" Conklin, who has been with the band for the past three and a half years, is once again on full display. Conklin, known for his work with JAG PANZER, brings his world-class vocal performance to Cloven Hoof, adding a new dimension to the band's sound.
In an interview, Cloven Hoof bassist Lee Payne expressed his admiration for Conklin, stating, "The praise is all Harry's. We are indeed fortunate to have such a brilliant vocalist and frontman in the band." Payne further elaborated on the album's creation, noting that it is not a direct continuation of their previous release, 'Heathen Cross,' but rather a reflection of the band's musical growth and versatility. He described the album as a "rich and varied" collection of songs, showcasing the band's ability to push musical boundaries.
The album's track listing reveals a diverse range of songs, including 'Terror From The Sky', 'Conquistador', 'Never A Prophet', 'Gypsy Roller', 'The Bigger They Are', 'Iron Mask', 'Phantom Chaser', 'Flying Dutchman', 'Prodigal Son', and 'Seven Sacred Wonders'. Each song offers a unique listening experience, highlighting the band's ability to blend different musical styles seamlessly. The album's production quality and Conklin's vocal prowess ensure that it will appeal to a wide range of metal fans.
Cloven Hoof's history dates back to 1979, when they formed under the name NIGHTSTALKER. The band adopted the stage characters of 'Earth', 'Fire', 'Water', and 'Air', which became an integral part of their identity. After releasing several demos and their debut EP, 'The Opening Ritual', in 1982, Cloven Hoof released their self-titled album in 1984, followed by 'Fighting Back' (1986), 'Dominator' (1988), and 'A Sultan's Ransom' (1989). The band split up in the 1990s but reunited with a new lineup in 2006, releasing 'Eye Of The Sun'. They continued to release albums on High Roller Records, including 'Resist Or Serve' (2014) and 'Who Mourns For The Morning Star?' (2017), which marked a significant turning point for the band, allowing them to tour North America for the first time.
The addition of Harry Conklin to the band has been a game-changer, as he brings his exceptional vocal skills and professionalism to the table. Payne praised Conklin's versatility and ability to interpret lyrics, stating, "No one interprets my lyrics like Mr. Conklin. I can't praise him enough." The band's current lineup includes Lee Payne on bass, Harry Conklin on lead vocals, Luke Hatton on lead guitar, Chris Coss on lead guitar, Chris Dando on keyboards and backing vocals, and Ash Baker on drums and backing vocals. With their rich history and evolving sound, Cloven Hoof continues to be a force to be reckoned with in the world of heavy metal, and 'Never A Prophet In Your Own Land' is sure to be a standout release in their illustrious career.
In my opinion, Cloven Hoof's ability to blend different musical styles and push boundaries is what sets them apart from other bands in the NWOBHM scene. Their willingness to experiment and evolve, while staying true to their roots, is a testament to their dedication to the craft. The addition of Harry Conklin has undoubtedly elevated the band's sound, and 'Never A Prophet In Your Own Land' is a prime example of their continued growth and success. As a fan of heavy metal, I am excited to hear what Cloven Hoof has in store for us next, and I am confident that they will continue to deliver exceptional music for years to come.
