WARMEN returns with their second album, Band of Brothers (out now via Reaper Entertainment). For those not up to speed: out of the ashes rises the phoenix, and this band carries that torch mightily.
Comprised of Janne “Warman” Wirman (keyboards), Petri Lindroos (vocals), Antti “Warman” Wirman (guitar), Jyri Helko (bass), and Seppo Tarvainen (drums), this is a band that will f**k you up — down, sideways…PERIOD.
From the outset, the album delivers the one-two-three punch of “Band of Brothers,” “Nine Lives,” and “Kingdom of Rust”, guaranteed to jack you up — like Josh Hartnett’s character in The Faculty (personal favorite). And yeah…Zeke’s right, fo’ sho’.
“When Doves Cry Blood” and “Out For Blood” are solid, but not game-changers. Then hits like “Kingdom of Rust” and “March or Die” slam hard — the latter is an instant favorite. “Untouched” brings all the subtlety of a chainsaw, and I loved every second of it.
Coup de Grâce and “Dethroned” bring the ruckus, and the album closes with “The Kiss of Judas” (STRATOVARIUS cover). Could’ve done without it, but kudos for the effort.
All told, Band of Brothers is a strong sophomore effort from WARMEN, and I’m ready for whatever these guys bring next.
STANDOUT TRACKS: “Dethroned,” “March or Die,” “Nine Lives”
RATING: 8/10
—THE MAESTRO
