REVIEW: WARKINGS – Revolution

 

WARKINGS – Revolution

Napalm Records

Among all the thematic bands in the heavy/power metal scene, such as SABATON and POWERWOLF, the one that resonates with me the most is WARKINGS, both for their music and their subject matter. I have a deep love for ancient and medieval European history, and these guys delve into exactly those themes. I believe what they do is incredibly positive, as they can inspire some of their listeners to engage with the most important science of humanity: history.

The band consists of experienced musicians within the heavy/power metal genre, with each member portraying a historical warrior persona. On vocals, we have Georg Neuhauser, who embodies a Roman Tribune and is known from bands like FALLEN SANCTUARY and SERENITY. On guitar is Markus Pohl, who plays a crusader and is recognized from MYSTIC PROPHECY. On drums, we have Steffen Theurer, portraying a Spartan, known for his work with SOULDRINKER and WATCH ME BLEED. Finally, on bass is Chris Rodens, who plays a Viking and is also known from SOULDRINKER and WATCH ME BLEED. In short, we are talking about a quartet of seasoned musicians.

Among all their releases so far, I want to highlight their album titled “Revolution,” which was released in August 2021, because I believe it represents the evolution of the band’s music in the best possible way and gives the clearest picture of what they aim to achieve musically. They essentially play European power metal, predominantly influenced by the German sound, while also infusing it with good doses of Viking metal akin to the style of AMON AMARTH. There’s also an American touch in their sound, primarily stemming from Georg Neuhauser’s fantastic voice, which personally reminds me of KAMELOT during the Roy Khan era, alongside some musical references to MANOWAR.

Beyond that, what makes their music even more appealing is the incorporation of various Mediterranean, Greek, and Oriental melodies, as well as the folk elements of Western Europe. In the song “Sparta, Pt. II,” they impressively manage to blend bouzouki with heavy metal sounds. Furthermore, in addition to this outstanding composition, the album offers many memorable moments to the listener, such as in the tracks "Fight" (the melody in the vocal lines of the chorus reminds me of "Bella Ciao"), "Spartacus," "Ave Roma," "Ragnar," and "By the Blade."

Moreover, each song lyrically refers to a specific historical period, adding an educational dimension to their work, which I consider a positive aspect of this entire endeavor.

Overall, if you love European power metal with strong doses of Mediterranean melodies, WARKINGS are sure to satisfy you. Personally, I enjoy this album a lot, and I find it difficult to understand the many negative reviews it has received on various websites and publications focused on metal music.

Nick Parastatidis