'Knights of the Cross' is regarded as the second part of the 'Middle Ages Trilogy' and in its simplest form, sees 'Grave Digger' exploring events surrounding “The Crusades”. Musically this is not too dissimilar from 'Tunes of War', perhaps a little brisker and more melodic at times, but well within their classic sound. Backing vocals are more heavily used on this release which does give the listener a rest from 'Chris Boltendahl's' distinctive gravel, additional vocalists include 'Iron Savior's' 'Piet Sielck' who heads a strong cast. Following the break-up of 'X-Wild', former 'Running Wild' bassist 'Jens Becker' joins the ranks and makes the first of many appearances for 'Grave Digger'.

A short spoken narrative, going by the name of 'Deus Lo Vult' opens proceedings to a backdrop of mystical, and in turn atmospheric gothic music. This leads nicely on to the title track, a brisk uncompromising riff driven dose of classic 'Grave Digger', with a splendid gang chanted chorus that certainly hits the right spot. Swifter still is the blazing 'Monks of War' that despite it's pace still retains a good slice of melody, as with 'Knights of the Cross' the chorus is nothing short of top notch. The tempo falls for the decent if somewhat pedestrian mid-tempo rocker 'Heroes of this Time', while 'Fanatic Assassins' incorporates some Eastern influences but despite the strong instrumentation, comes across far too awkwardly with the disjointed vocal sections. Back on track is the brisk but melodic 'Lionheart' which incorporates an unexpectedly harmonious chorus and fine fret work from the ever reliable 'Uwe Lulis'. The momentum falls further for 'The Keeper of the Holy Grail' a more plodding piece and although it feels a little sluggish at times is braced by a strong chorus and an interesting gothic style instrumental break. 'Inquisition' is up next and brings with it a return to the riff driven Speed / Power Metal, ultimately a solid affair but after its splendid starts looses momentum towards the end. A more melodic approach is taken with 'Baphomet' which sees some fine soloing from 'Uwe Lulis', while the backing vocals give the song another dimension mixing the album up nicely. Much brisker and possibly knocking on the doors of 'Running Wild' is 'Over the Sea' and while far from their best, the chorus takes an unusual but effective approach giving the song an extra edge. The epic sounding 'The Curse of Jacques' ensues and as with quite a few tracks on the album 'Chris Boltendahl' leaves the chorus to the backing vocalists, which makes the sound less predictable and ultimate more enjoyable. 'Knights of the Cross' closes with 'The Battle Of Bannockburn'- yes that's right shouldn't this track be on 'Tunes of War'? anyway it's one of the best present, fast, uncompromising, well penned and graced with some of the best fret work on the album!

Quality wise there's not much difference between this and 'Tunes of War' but after dissecting each track, I think the previous release just has the edge thanks to a little more consistency.