Search - Storm Warrior :: Northern Rage

Another review for the best power metal band in years!

Mattowarrior | Madison, WI United States | 11/26/2007

(4 out of 5 stars)

"As previously stated in a review I wrote, Stormwarrior play a type of metal associated with the mid-eighties German Speed Metal bands like Helloween, Running Wild, Grave Digger, etc.



Now what happens when they follow up their classic debut with an album that sounds like it was recorded two years later (1988 instead of 86? Haha, this album was recorded in 2004 and the debut 2002!) Well they did actually record this one two years later, literally and figuratively, but it does not sound like Keepers 1 if that's what you're thinking.



Reverb has been added on drums a bit more, but its pretty much the same production style as the first one otherwise, but something makes it not as retro.



If I had to say this, and this is my current favorite band keep in mind, I would say that this is a let down from the debut. But only a little bit. Because it has some progression with regards to their "Walls of Jericho" tribute (i.e the self-titled album). There's a bit more of Running Wild on this, and even a bit more Blind Guardian at times. "Valhalla" is probably the standout track on this, I think its the catchiest and most ferocious track on the album. "Odinn's Warrior's" actually features some mid-paced work, and the guitar tone and style reminds me of (early) Gamma Ray in a way. "Lindsfarne" (the epic track) features acoustic guitars and reminds me of mid-period Gravedigger in a way, and its almost like the Band Enslaved in that its a track that has the historical Viking perspective in play with epic music.



Then we have the usual tracks like "Welcome Thy Rite" which is more in line with the first album (as well as the previously mentioned Valhalla).



So did they succeed? Well after the first album's successful aping of the classic German Melodic Speed Metal (well I wouldn't say aping is the right word anymore, this band does it so well its almost like an unreleased album by an unknown band of that era), they have taken a few steps towards progression, but I also feel the first album's songwriting was far superior. However, its growing on me, and some of the progression (some more interesting melodies that don't sound typical at times, and yes, more Running Wild (Black Hand Inn era and back) thrown in the mix, as well as the acoustics and more atmosphere) make the band seem like they are going towards more of an "original" sound. However, I am still undecided as to whether or not that's a good thing, because that first album was so good! I never thought that a band that uses three or four classic albums by earlier bands as a template would be this good, but a good song is a good song, and this album is still full of them, but a little bit restrained compared to the debut. VERY minor dissapointment aside, it sure slaughters most other contemporary power metal bands to dust. Especially the song Valhalla!"

Every metal fan needs this album

James De Costa | del mar, ca United States | 07/31/2005

(5 out of 5 stars)

"This album from the get go hits hard from start to finish. If your into speed metal or prog metal or any type of rock hard core, than you need this album. These guys are from germany, and let me tell you germen metal is rad. Really good progression and jaw dropping speed on the guitars. Catchy riffs and a great drummer. Anyone that is a fan of metal trust me on this one you want to go and buy this album fast."