Screamer – Kingmaker

Swedish traditional metal outfit Screamer returns with their fifth studio album, “Kingmaker.” This offering throws back to the glory days of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal (NWOBHM), delivering a potent blend of soaring vocals, galloping riffs, and fist-pumping anthems. Let’s crank the volume and delve into this sonic time capsule, track by track, and see if “Kingmaker” reignites the flame of classic metal or feels like a derivative echo of the past.

A Raucous Ride Through Classic Metal Tropes:

• The Traveler (4:22): The album explodes with a potent declaration of intent. A galloping riff reminiscent of Iron Maiden lays the foundation, while Leif Roar Eriksson’s vocals soar with a youthful urgency. The lyrics celebrate the thrill of the open road and the freedom of the rock and roll lifestyle, a classic theme delivered with infectious enthusiasm.
• Hellfire (3:58): A shift in mood emerges here. The tempo increases slightly, and the guitars take on a heavier edge. Eriksson’s vocals become more aggressive, perfectly capturing the song’s fiery spirit. The lyrics delve into themes of rebellion and defiance, a potent reminder of NWOBHM’s rebellious spirit.
• Fall of a Common Man (5:12): This track throws in a touch of epic grandeur. A soaring lead guitar melody intertwines with the driving rhythm section, creating a sense of triumphant momentum. Eriksson delivers a powerful vocal performance, leading the listener into a glorious metal gallop. The lyrics explore the struggles of the ordinary person, offering a relatable message of perseverance in the face of adversity.
• Ashes and Fire (4:17): The album’s heart and soul emerge here. This anthemic track features a soaring chorus that will get stuck in your head for days. Eriksson’s vocals are at their most passionate, perfectly capturing the song’s message of unity and resilience. The lyrics urge listeners to rise from the ashes and fight for a better tomorrow, a powerful message wrapped in a classic metal package.
• Blood Upon the Land (4:03): A return to a more aggressive approach. Fast tempos, pummeling drums, and a scorching guitar solo create a sense of urgency and chaos. Eriksson’s vocals take on a more snarling quality, reflecting the song’s dark subject matter. The lyrics explore the devastating consequences of war, a somber reminder amidst the album’s generally optimistic tone.
• The Unquenchable Flame (4:38): This track injects a shot of adrenaline. A galloping riff reminiscent of Judas Priest lays the foundation, while Eriksson delivers a soaring vocal performance. The lyrics celebrate the enduring power of heavy metal, a love letter to the genre that inspired Screamer. This track is pure, unadulterated fun, a perfect example of NWOBHM’s infectious energy.
• Screaming Eagles (4:52): The album closes with a triumphant declaration. Soaring guitars, pounding drums, and a powerful chorus create a sense of glorious closure. Eriksson delivers a fist-pumping vocal performance, leaving the listener wanting more. The lyrics celebrate the power of metal to unite and inspire, a fitting conclusion to the album’s nostalgic journey.

Verdict: 4 out of 5

“Kingmaker” is a celebration of everything that made NWOBHM great. Screamer delivers a potent blend of catchy riffs, soaring vocals, and energetic drumming, all delivered with a youthful exuberance that is infectious. The songwriting is tight, with each track contributing to the overall feeling of nostalgia and metallic revelry. Eriksson proves himself a capable vocalist, seamlessly channeling the spirit of classic metal frontmen. The production is clear and powerful, allowing each instrument to shine through the mix.

A minor point to consider: Listeners seeking a more modern or experimental sound might find “Kingmaker” a bit derivative. The album wears its influences proudly, occasionally bordering on pastiche. The lyrical themes, while relatable, occasionally fall into familiar territory.

However, for fans of classic metal and those yearning for a shot of pure, unadulterated heavy metal energy, “Kingmaker” is a must-listen. Screamer proves that sometimes the best way to move forward is to celebrate the glories of the past. This album is a sonic time capsule that will leave you nostalgic for leather jackets, ripped jeans, and the golden age of metal.