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HELVETETS PORT “Warlords”
HELVETETS PORT “Warlords”
By Dr. Abner Mality
Everybody talks about the NWOBHM when it comes to retro metal. But what about the old metal scenes in other parts of Europe, like Sweden? The Swedes had plenty of their own classic metal like HEAVY LOAD, OVERDRIVE, AXEWITCH and more. And HELVETETS PORT are here to make sure we never forget.
This one is for SERIOUS retro metal fanatics...the type that make annual pilgrimages to the “Keep It True” festival and who think thrash is something new for high school kids. If you worship early 80’s bands, you’re the target audience for “Warlords”. Coming from the home of melodic death metal, Gothenburg, HELVETETS PORT have recreated the old Swedish sound, right down to the cover art and lyrics, which are obviously inspired by “The Road Warrior”. “Black Knight” kicks things off with a speedy and melody-filled bounce...the production is an amazing recreation of the 83/84 time frame. As for vocals, Witchfinder has a very clear, somewhat nasal voice with a quavery sound to it.
When these guys stay on the faster end, they crank out some great metal anthems that should appeal to NWOBHM fans as well. “Wasteland Warriors”, “Tyrants In Tokyo” and “Golden Axe” (a tribute to the classic video game?) are all bracing tuneful rockers that hit all the nostalgia sweet spots while remaining good songs in their own right. When things slow down, as on “Mutant March”, they hit a bump in the road, as this is a turgid, dull track. But that’s the low point.
Is it corny? Yes, and I’m sure HELVETETS PORT know that, but they keep a stiff upper lip and treat this brand of metal with some dignity. I wouldn’t say these guys are on the level of SATAN, but they are surely worthy of respect from retro-metal purists.
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