Having thoroughly enjoyed their debut album, I was ecstatic to see Swedish Heavy Metal cult Wanton Attack are back with their second offering. Out now via No Remorse Records and Golden Core Records.
Majestic guitars leap into life with lively bass lines and punching drums. The instantaneous feeling of true Heavy Metal fills the air and the soul with its mighty spirit. The bass guitar has so much of its own personality while the leads soar atop the rhythmic excellence. The powerful and emotive vocals sit gorgeously atop the instruments without overshadowing anything, displaying a very pleasant sound while the drums hold the performance together with their energetic execution. Sweden has a rich history in the genre which Wanton Attack invokes to give them the ultimate abilities in writing mesmerising hooks with that mystical flair to it. While the core of the songs is simplistic, they embellish everything with clever nuances to make for an exciting listen that keeps you on your toes. Much like the debut album, I find it immensely charming and full of its own vibrant personality. Sweeping over you like the cloak of night, Wanton Attack may sound very joyful but there is also a sinister side to their rocking anthems that feels like eyes in the night you can never quite meet. With bands like Century, Lethal Steel, Tyrann and Helvetets Port showing that Sweden has retained its harmonious relationship with true Heavy Metal, I think this duo deserve to be mentioned in the same breath.
It is a real treat when a band puts out a new release that feels “cult” in its own way from the get-go. I have found that to be true of both Wanton Attack albums. There is something mysteriously inviting and dangerous in their melodic and ever-charging blend of metallic triumphs. They are not afraid to dance with melancholy or dynamics, ensuring we never tire of embarking on their journey with them. A rewarding quest indeed. Mixing their native Swedish and English in their lyrics works superbly to add another layer of variety and interest to the album which the instruments always match in their shapeless, transcendental might. The progressions and flow within each song and the album as a whole is always impeccable, feeling tasteful and allowing us to truly appreciate everything that is happening without spoon-feeding us the obvious, cliched or trite. Running for a little over half an hour; within that time we are treated to a veritable feast of secretive, potent and bewildering Heavy Metal that is engaging throughout and on repeat listens. I knew this would be a superb sophomore and alas I was not remotely disappointed.
A truly wonderful and exhilarating long-player of real Heavy Metal. Wanton Attack have their own sound and character while keeping the traditions of the past burning brightly. Their flame shall not be extinguished as their second record proves just as excellent as the debut. Definitely a band to watch out for if you enjoy your traditional Heavy Metal with a darker, ghoulish edge.
Discover more from NATTSKOG
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.