A Grove of Ashes and Aspens

Now Playing: Kyrie Klitorem by Powerwolf

This past Friday (July 26) marked the release of a new Powerwolf album, following the release of 1589 and Sinners of the Seven Seas as singles. The Spotify release of this album includes the release of a live set from New York City, as well as orchestral versions of the main album itself.

A bit of background on the band, for those who may not be familiar: Powerwolf is a German power metal band formed in Saarbrücken in 2003. Their lyrical themes can best be described as Satanic/Christian werewolf metal, which is not often a combination people tend to think of going together, but one that works nonetheless. Wake Up The Wicked is their tenth studio album.

After having given this album a listen, it’s solid. It has the standard Powerwolf sound, while still feeling fresh and unique. Some will say that it’s too formulaic, but I don’t necessarily think that’s a bad thing, since it means you know what you’re getting. It may be new material, but at the core, it’s still a Powerwolf album, and having that come through means that people who like that sound will like this album.

Considering each track individually, I personally really like 1589 and We Don’t Wanna Be No Saints. Both songs are very interesting, and while the latter doesn’t have the same level of intricate story as 1589, it’s still very cool, and I like the inclusion of a children’s choir in the mix.

Thunderpriest was the weakest song on the album for me. It’s not a bad song by any means, it just wasn’t that interesting and didn’t do it for me. I generally prefer the rest of the album over this one.

Overall, I like Wake of the Wicked. It’s a solid album with that standard Powerwolf sound that fans have come to know and love. It also shows the same virtuosity that fans have come to expect out of singer Atilla Dorn. This album has songs that will definitely be a solid addition to any setlist.