The Kings of Metal are back! One year after the release of the “King of Kings” single, Manowar returns with a mini album entitled “The Sons of Odin”. This is but a prelude to the band’s forthcoming concept album “Gods of War” (scheduled to hit the streets in early 2007), giving us a taste of what will follow. The mini album (or EP if you prefer) contains the “King of Kings” single performed live at the Earthshaker Festival plus three brand new tracks, set to be included in the “Gods of War” album in different versions.

After the bombastic album “Warriors of the World” and the two magnificent singles “Dawn of Battle” and “King of Kings”, Manowar returns to claim its throne of the Heavy Metal Realm. With this EP the band continues delivering high standard Heavy Metal music in its own special way. Once again the new tracks have “Manowar” written all over them, continuing from where “Warriors of the World” left off. “Odin” is just a symphonic prelude, an epic introduction with not much to talk about. The real thing is behind the other two tracks, “Gods of War” and “The Sons of Odin”.

The first one kicks off with pompous pounding drums and bass, orchestra and choir. It’s more than obvious that Manowar has incorporated more symphonic elements than ever. The music ceases for Eric Adams to sing the first verse. His voice is clearly in excellent shape and literally brings you the goosebumps. He hits high notes as well as the characteristic “Warriors of the World” era growls. Then the rest of the band joins him for a chorus of epic proportions. The song can be categorized as mid tempo, an epic anthem with the classic Manowar lyrical content. Carl Logan delivers a fantastic solo that reminded me of Ross the Boss. The ending of the song is a classic Manowar frenzy with Scott pounding the place, Joey ripping some chords, Carl delivering some fretboard mayhem and Eric screaming his lungs out.

“The Sons of Odin” follows. It’s time for Manowar to raise some speed and bang some heads. This is not the “Dawn of Battle” mayhem but more of an older Manowar epic tune with characteristic riff and once again Ross-like soloing by Carl. The chorus is unbelievable, you sing along till your throat bleeds. Scott and Joey hammer like hell and Eric releases a sky high scream just before the end of the song and the final narration. This is true Manowar power. Judging by these two songs, I dare not imagine how the new album will sound like. Another classic is definitely on the way. In the meantime, you go grab this one and taste some true metal power courtesy of the KINGS OF METAL!!! The Immortal edition contains a bonus DVD disc!



http://www.manowar.com

Review by: Trampakoulas