Kerrigan, a German heavy metal band from Freiburg im Breisgau, Baden-Württemberg, emerged in 2020, quickly establishing themselves within the traditional heavy metal scene. The band was founded by Jonas Weber and Bruno Schotten, both of whom are also members of the funeral doom band Lone Wanderer. Their collaboration in Kerrigan marked a departure from their doom metal roots, embracing a classic heavy metal sound infused with modern energy.
Formation and Early Releases (2020–2022)
In 2020, Weber and Schotten began experimenting with traditional heavy metal during rehearsals, leading to the formation of Kerrigan. They promptly released a demo titled “Heavy Metal 2020,” featuring three original tracks and a cover of Wolf’s “Head Contact.” This demo showcased their ability to blend classic heavy metal influences with a contemporary flair, capturing the attention of both fans and industry professionals.
Debut Album: “Bloodmoon” (2023)
Kerrigan’s debut full-length album, “Bloodmoon,” was released on September 22, 2023, through High Roller Records. The album comprises eight tracks, including “Eternal Fire,” “Against the Westwind,” and the title track “Bloodmoon.” The music is characterized by catchy riffs, melodic harmonies, and a production style reminiscent of the 1980s heavy metal era. Critics praised the album for its authentic sound and dynamic compositions, noting its appeal to fans of traditional heavy metal.
Musical Style and Influences
Kerrigan’s music draws heavily from the New Wave of Traditional Heavy Metal (NWOTHM) movement, aiming to recreate the essence of early 1980s metal. Their sound has been compared to bands like Enforcer and Mindless Sinner, blending heaviness with melody and a raw edge. The production of “Bloodmoon” intentionally mirrors the analog recording techniques of the 1980s, contributing to its nostalgic yet fresh appeal.
Band Members
- Jonas Weber: Vocals, Guitars
- Bruno Schotten: Guitars, Bass
- Jonathan Döring: Session Drums on “Bloodmoon”
Critical Reception
“Bloodmoon” received acclaim from various metal publications. Metal-Rules.com awarded the album a perfect score, highlighting its infectious melodies and authentic traditional metal sound.
Metal Rules Defenders of the Faith praised the album for capturing the spirit of early ’80s metal, noting its raw edge and unique flourishes.
Defenders Of The Faith Metal Dead Rhetoric commended the band’s ability to deliver catchy hooks and engaging songwriting, considering “Bloodmoon” a strong debut that balances traditional and modern heavy metal elements.
Live Performances and Future Prospects
Following the release of “Bloodmoon,” Kerrigan planned live performances to promote the album. Their energetic stage presence and commitment to delivering authentic heavy metal experiences have garnered them a growing fan base. The band’s dedication to their craft and positive reception of their debut album suggest a promising future in the heavy metal scene.
In summary, Kerrigan’s formation and subsequent release of “Bloodmoon” have solidified their position within the traditional heavy metal revival movement. Their ability to blend classic influences with modern sensibilities has resonated with fans and critics alike, marking them as a notable act in contemporary metal.
Leave a Reply