Review by Rick Eaglestone for MPM
Germany’s purveyors of atmospheric gallops and heavenly choruses Powerwolf return with their latest album Wake Up The Wicked
If you want to know what to expect then opener Bless ‘em With the Blade all but confirms that if isn’t broke don’t fix it, as it’s flooded with atmosphere and huge epic soundscapes which continues into the cinematic gallop of the undeniably catchy Sinners of the Seven Seas which is laden with a great narrative.
One thing that I’ve always felt and this no way a criticism as I am fan of the contest but there are certain bands that I feel with their subject matter and aesthetic could capture the imagination of the Eurovision faithful and well, Kyrie Klitorem all but champions this before the medieval wave of Heretic Hunters stands strong choruses and all.
Moving onto more of a historical vein is 1589 which is delivered both smoothly and mighty which is -complimented with the easily the albums crowning glory – the incredibly catchy Viva Vulgata.
Forging on from strength to strength is the face paced title track Wake Up The Wicked and yes, it feels that there is a certain formula when it comes to Powerwolf albums, but it works, and the band only seem to build on this release after release – The solos on this track are particularly noteworthy.
Joan of Arc and Thuderpriest both contain some exquisite NWOBHM elements with We Don’t Wanna Be No Saints feels like in years to come is going to get covered a lot and has a great accompanying video worthy of your attention.
Finally, the album concludes with the captivating Vargamor which when all said and done ends another well balanced Powerwolf album.
Wake Up The Wicked Tracklisting
01 Bless ’em With the Blade
02 Sinners of the Seven Seas
03 Kyrie Klitorem
04 Heretic Hunters
05 1589
06 Viva Vulgata
07 Wake Up the Wicked
08 Joan of Arc
09 Thunderpriest
10 We Don’t Wanna Be No Saints
11 Vargamo
Line-up:
Attila Dorn – vocals
Falk Maria Schlegel – organ
Charles Greywolf – guitar
Matthew Greywolf – guitar
Roel van Helden – drums
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7/10
