German speed metal warriors Cruel Force return with Haneda, an album that pushes their sound deeper into the realm of classic ‘80s speed and thrash metal while retaining the razor-sharp aggression that defined their earlier work. Where previous releases flirted with blackened influences and occult imagery, this record feels more expansive and adventurous. Mysticism, mythology and cinematic landscapes replace much of the earlier blasphemous themes, giving the album a broader scope while maintaining the ferocity fans expect.
The record wastes little time establishing its identity. From the opening moments, the band locks into that unmistakable high-energy speed metal formula: galloping riffs, melodic leads and tight, driving rhythm work. Songs like “Whips A Swinging” and “Savage Gods” showcase the band’s ability to combine relentless pacing with memorable hooks, while “Sword Of Iron” and “Crystal Skull” push forward with an aggressive thrash backbone that keeps the adrenaline pumping.
The middle portion of the album expands the dynamic range. “Warlords” stretches past six minutes and feels almost cinematic in its construction, shifting between stomping riffs and soaring lead sections. The guitar work throughout the album deserves special attention; Cruel Force clearly embraces the twin-guitar traditions of classic metal, layering harmonies and solos that echo the influence of bands like Iron Maiden and early European speed metal pioneers.
By the time “Black Talon” arrives, there’s no let up. Another hook-laden intro riff launches the track before the band unleashes a soaring guitar solo that cuts through the mix. The momentum continues into “Titan’s Awakening,” which opens with high-gain squealing guitar work and quickly shifts through multiple rhythm changes. At least three distinct riff variations appear before the song settles into a well-defined solo section, demonstrating the band’s knack for writing thrash that remains technical without losing its punch.
The title track “Haneda” closes the album and stands as its most ambitious moment. Running over nine minutes, it begins with a neoclassical intro before transitioning into a familiar thrash-fuelled riff that feels rooted in the genre’s golden era. Midway through the song the pace slows, giving room for a deliberate, tension-building solo that acts as a breather before the band drives the track toward an explosive finale. The structure gives the song a real sense of journey, making it a fitting climax to the album.
Overall, Haneda leans heavily into old-school speed metal traditions while expanding the band’s thematic and musical scope. The production has a massive yet natural ‘80s character, allowing the riffs and melodies to breathe without losing any of their bite. The combination of Kreator-style thrash intensity with the melodic grandeur of bands like Rainbow and Iron Maiden gives the record a distinctive identity.
It also marks a noticeable evolution for Cruel Force. The shift away from strictly Satanic or cult-themed material opens the door for a more epic atmosphere, with imagery of ancient temples, deserts, jungles and mountain peaks appearing throughout the album’s narrative tone.
Cruel Force have recently toured across mainland Greece and already have several dates lined up in Germany for 2026. If Haneda is any indication, these songs are going to translate into absolute chaos in a live setting. Fans of classic European speed metal should keep an eye out for the band when they hit the road.
Band Line-Up
- Carnivore – Vocals
- Slaughter – Guitar
- Spider – Bass
- GG Alex – Drums
Track Listing
- The Cross – 1:20
- Whips A Swinging – 4:01
- Savage Gods – 4:28
- Sword Of Iron – 4:03
- Crystal Skull – 4:52
- Warlords – 6:23
- Black Talon – 4:04
- Titan’s Awakening – 4:15
- Haneda – 9:11