Warmen, the Finnish melodic death metal project led by keyboardist Janne Warman (Children of Bodom), returns with their sixth studio album, “Here for None.” This offering finds the band revisiting their signature blend of melodic death metal, neoclassical influences, and a dash of progressive flair. Does “Here for None” recapture the magic of Warmen’s earlier works, or does it fall victim to a case of deja vu? Let’s embark on this journey through frosty Finnish soundscapes and see if the fire still burns.
A Familiar Formula Revisited, Executed with Precision:
Warmen doesn’t reinvent the wheel on “Here for None.” Fans of their previous albums will find a familiar sonic landscape characterized by soaring guitar leads, galloping drum beats, and Janne Warman’s distinctive keyboard flourishes. Tracks like “The Evil One” and “Shadow Maker” showcase this tried-and-true formula in all its glory, delivering a potent blend of aggression and melody that is sure to please longtime fans.
A Touch of Power and Progressiveness:
While the melodic death metal foundation remains strong, “Here for None” injects elements of power metal and progressive metal into the mix. Clean vocals add a layer of grandeur on tracks like “The End of the Line,” while occasional tempo changes and instrumental passages hint at progressive leanings. This willingness to experiment, without straying too far from their core sound, adds a touch of variety and keeps the listener engaged.
Petri Johansson (Nightwish) Delivers Soaring Vocals:
The addition of Nightwish vocalist Petri Johansson is a welcome change. Johansson’s clean vocals are powerful and soaring, adding a new dimension to Warmen’s sound. His presence complements the harsh vocals of bassist Sami Kuoppala effectively, creating a dynamic vocal interplay that enhances the album’s emotional impact.
Keeping it Fresh with Guest Musicians and a Cover Song:
Warmen keeps things interesting by incorporating guest musicians and a well-chosen cover song. Jens Johansson (Stratovarius) adds his signature neoclassical keyboard flourishes on “Shadow Maker,” while the inclusion of Ultravox’s “Dancing With Tears In My Eyes” (albeit with a heavier twist) adds a touch of nostalgia and demonstrates the band’s playful side.
A Potential Case of Deja Vu for Longtime Fans:
While enjoyable, “Here for None” might feel a bit too familiar for longtime Warmen fans. The album doesn’t break new ground sonically, and some might find the songwriting to be slightly derivative at times. Those seeking a significant evolution from the band’s previous work might be left wanting.
A Potent Melodic Death Metal Cocktail for Genre Enthusiasts:
Despite this minor criticism, “Here for None” is still a solid effort from Warmen. The album is a well-crafted blend of melodic death metal, power metal, and progressive elements, delivered with impressive musicianship and a clear understanding of the genre’s conventions. Newcomers to Warmen will find much to enjoy here, and “Here for None” serves as a potent introduction to the band’s unique sound.
A Reheating, Not a Revolution, But Still Satisfying:
“Here for None” might not be Warmen’s most groundbreaking album, but it’s a satisfying listen for fans of melodic death metal with a taste for the epic. With its soaring vocals, impressive musicianship, and well-executed blend of styles, “Here for None” is sure to find a place on the playlists of melodic death metal enthusiasts.
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