Armed For Battle

Emerald is a Christian Heavy / Power Metal band from California USA and was formed in the late '70s. However, their debut EP "Armed For Battle" wasn't released until 1987 on Metal Gem Records. It was the band's only release and was recorded on a budget of 13k which left little if no money for promotion. The album, nevertheless, sold well in Europe's underground metal scene, particularly in Germany, Switzerland and Denmark. After having gone out of print and turning into a highly sought after (and expensive!) collector's item, "Armed For Battle" was re-issued on CD in 2001 by Magdalene Records as a '2-for-1', with the second album being Oracle's power metal romping EP "Selah".
The album was re-released again in 2018 by No Remorse Records and included 4 bonus tracks and booklet with lyrics, photos and liner notes. Highly recommended for fans of Queensrÿche, Sacred Warrior and '80s US Heavy Power Metal.
Not all of the Emerald members were Christians at the time of recording the 'Armed For Battle' album, but all would convert after its release.

Lineup

Larry Philips - Lead Vocals
Dave Enos (Seventh Sign) - Guitars/Keyboards/Vocals
Joe Palma - Bass
Roger Dale Martin (Vengeance Rising, Die Happy) - Bass
Kyle Morrett - Drums