HAMMERFALL (ABO #372)

HAMMERFALL
WARLORDS

Heading from Sweden, Power Metal band HammerFall may sound like something generic for many, something on which I disagree. I'd rather call it "traditional" as these lads don't bother hiding their influences and proudly wear them on their sleeves and in their hearts. Of course, without Judas Priest, Accept, Manowar, Iron Maiden or Helloween there probably wouldn't be a HammerFall today that doesn't change the fact that Joachim Cains & Co are good craftsmen whom built a solid fan base by transcending their influences and making them theirs.
As many other bands, they had their ups and downs but, nevertheless, their seven albums remain solid example of how Heavy Metal should sound like.
This compilation, or rather selection as some key anthems had to be left aside to fit the 80mn duration of a CD, is my view of an entertaining quality introduction to a band which has never really disappointed me. So, if you like Metal the traditional way, indulge yourself with "Warlords", you will not regret it.

RIYL:
Manowar, Helloween, Judas Priest