From the depths of a glorious, rich past, underground and quite unknown for the mainstream metal audience, a new wave of Hellenic Epic Heavy Metal has surged forth, carrying with it the echoes of ancient battles and the grandeur of mythic heroes. The Greek Epic Metal scene, once a hidden treasure, has blossomed in recent years, with bands drawing inspiration from their homeland’s legendary history and other forgotten realms, in order to craft powerful and evocative soundscapes forged in fire and steel.
This resurgence has not only revitalized the genre but has also placed a worldwide spotlight on the unique artistic vision that Greek musicians bring to Epic Heavy Metal. It is within this context of loyal dedication and renewed energy that REFLECTION, a cornerstone of this scene, unleash their latest opus, ‘’The Battles I Have Won’’. It is reasonable that after an eight-year period of time from their latest masterpiece ‘’Bleed Babylon Bleed’’, the anticipation surrounding this release has been immense and this album’s arrival, marks not just a return but a reassertion of dominance in the genre.
The album’s fantastic and epic artwork, is the first impression that someone will have, prior to listening to the album. Created by Alexandros ‘’Crom’’ Vasilopoulos (guitarist and artist that has crafted covers for BATTLEROAR, AIRGED L’AMH etc.), the artwork is a striking depiction of a ferocious warrior on horseback wielding an axe and storming in battle that perfectly encapsulates the epic and battle-hardened themes explored within the music of the album. The artwork is so wonderful and old school, that it really looks like that has emerged from the realm that Frank Frazetta or John Buscema used to create for ‘’Conan The Barbarian’’ comic.
‘’Only the Swords Survive’’ is an immediate statement of intent. The song is unleashed with a furious barrage of blazing guitar riffs, a whirlwind of sharpened steel that immediately commands attention. Stathis Pavlantis‘ technical prowess is immediately evident, his fingers dancing across the fretboard with precision and speed in this sonic assault that establishes a warlike atmosphere. It couldn’t be differently when the first lyrics of the first song are: ‘’The fever of war, will drive us berserk, the longing is over, the passions of blood, Temptation to kill, Commit to slaughter’’.
The title track, ‘’The Battles I Have Won’’ unfolds with a majestic, deliberate pace. This is Epic Metal in its purest form, a grand tapestry woven from intricate guitar harmonies and imposing melodies. The power and the emotion that is fully infused in the song, deliver a sense of triumph that is totally reminiscent of MANOWAR’s epic anthems.
With ‘’Lord of the Wind’’ that follows, REFLECTION revisits the soundscape that has defined their legacy. This track, that was the first single of the album, is simply another confirmation to the band’s enduring ability to craft fascinating melodies and atmospheres, drawing inspiration from the Greek musical tradition and various Greek musical styles and composers. Kostas Tokas once again shines, with his vocals, soaring effortlessly over this marvelous musical arrangement and orchestration.
A change of pace arrives with ‘’Siren’s Song’’, with REFLECTION exploring the realm of Epic Doom Metal in an ethereal yet grandiose approach, bringing in mind the first albums of the mighty CANDLEMASS that makes the song both seductive and ominous as were the mythical Sirens.
The next song ‘’Once Again (Crime in the Valley of Death)’’ is stimulated by one the most tragic accidents in the history of Greece in the Tempi valley. This haunted valley, that from ancient times up to modern ones, it has been be extremely bloodthirsty, ‘’being fed’’ with many lives especially of young people. This track ventures into the realm of US Metal and the guitars adopt a sharper, more aggressive edge channeling the emotions of the band that have stirred from this disastrous and heartbreaking tragedy.
Returning to their signature blend of epic metal and melodic grandeur, ‘’Celestial War’’ finds REFLECTION masterfully combining influences from bands like WARLORD with distinct Hellenic musical elements. Subtle traditional Greek melody adds a unique and captivating flavor especially in the chorus that brings memories of the beloved Hellenic Epic Metal band SARISSA.
The already beloved anthem ‘’March of the Argonauts’’ needs little introduction. This track, that was released as a single back in 2022, is instantly recognizable through the guitar melody and perfectly encapsulates the band’s storytelling skills. Tokas delivers the iconic chorus with both power and grace and undoubtfully that fist pumping song will be a live concert’s highlight.
With ‘’Lady in the Water’’, the band once again demonstrate their versatility, exploring the melodic territory of US Metal, delivering a combination of powerful riffing and soaring emotive solo, reminiscent of CRIMSON GLORY.
Last but not least, in the monumental track ‘’City Walls of Malta – The Great Siege’’, the band reaches its zenith with an epic, in the truest sense and sprawling, pompous composition that unfolds like a historical saga. The song is painting vivid pictures of clashing armies and unwavering defenses, with a dramatic flair, that is crafting a truly cinematic soundscape.
In conclusion, I definitely believe, that the enthusiastic outcome of the ‘’The Battles I Have Won’’ is a triumphant reaffirmation of REFLECTION’s place at the forefront of Hellenic Epic Heavy Metal. The band has not merely returned. They have ascended to a new level of artistry. The seamless integration of new blood with the established core of the band has resulted in a revitalized and invigorated sound that is both familiar and fresh.
Kostas Tokas proves to be a phenomenal addition as his vocal talent is breathing new life into the band’s epic tales and adding a layer of dramatic intensity that perfectly complements the music. The guitar work, as always, is nothing short of stellar. Stathis Pavlantis has crafted a collection of riffs, harmonies and solos that are both technically dazzling and emotionally resonant, showcasing a mastery of his dexterity that few can rival.
The rhythm section, with John Litinakis’ powerful and nuanced bass playing and George Pavlantis‘ dynamic and inventive thunderous drumming, provide a foundation that is both solid and inspiring, allowing the guitars and vocals to soar to epic heights. A special mention needs to be made also for the excellent lyrics that Giannis Tsakonas (Public Relations and Web Administration for the band) has provided to the songs and the mesmerizing strings and choir arrangements by Kostas Rekleitis.
To be honest, I didn’t believe that REFLECTION would be able to surpass their previous magnus opus ‘’Bleed Babylon Bleed’’, but now I feel that they did it.
‘’The Battles I Have Won’’ doesn’t simply meet the expectations set by REFLECTIONS’s illustrious past. It shatters them, forging a new standard for the band and for the genre itself. A glorious addition in the vanguard iron lines and the enduring power of Hellenic Epic Heavy Metal. This album is not just a return. It is a triumphant victory.
‘’The Battles I Have Won’’ will be released on the 20th of June 2025 by Pitch Black Records and will be available on CD and Digital format, while Vinylstore.gr will present a vinyl edition – with special vinyl mastering, under exclusive license from Pitch Black Records.
Check the discussion about the album in our forum pages.
