Year: 2022
Total Time: 45:50
Label: Napalm Records
HAMMERFALL, chapter twelve. The Swedes return with a new album after the good “Dominion” and first of all I have to mention that every album of the band is for me a mostly good news, being connected with them since their monumental debut, 25 years ago. Since then, HAMMERFALL have had a remarkable run, and with steady steps have solidified themselves as one of the most iconic bands in the power/heavy scene. However, they also presented releases that I would describe as mediocre, with the element of repetition preventing the band from approaching the quality of their first period.
“Hammer Of The Dawn” still moves in safe paths, with zero risk, which is not a problem in itself, after all, the Swedes have gotten used to compositions that repeat from album to album. The issue is that HAMMERFALL very often choose to base their songs on riffs so stereotypical and so “iconic” that they can be called “hit or miss”, in other words they are so predictable, that if they don’t draw your attention from the first listen, the interest is lost at once without a second chance…
That’s how I feel with “Hammer Of The Dawn”. HAMMERFALL’s problem is that they remain stagnant, repetitive and cling to predictable approaches. The structures are too specific, the basic riffs and vocal lines lack inspiration, the whole thing consists of good performers, it is definitely catchy, but suffers in creativity. Let me make it clear, Joacim Cans is an excellent performer, talented and top class singer. But he no longer excites you to listen to him. “Reveries”, “Hammer Of The Dawn”, “Venerate Me” are stark proof that HAMMERFALL have a hard time keeping you with them anymore, and what’s worse is that they push forcefully to do so with chatty pompous melodies. Their approach reminds me dangerously of that of SABBATON, which pushes me further and further away.
Therefore, from the mediocre “Hammer Of The Dawn” four tracks survive in my opinion. The wonderful ballad “Not Today”, the catchy – taken from “Glory To The Brave” era “Too Old To Die Young”, the dynamic opener “Brotherhood” and my favourite “No Son Of Odin”.
My review seems quite a bit harsher than the final score. HAMMERFALL’s new album is not a bad album. It has energy, nerve and dynamics, however it is one of the most flat and indifferemt albums of the band. We won’t memorize “Hammer Of The Dawn” for a long time. So, I will be still in search of the greatness of “Glory To The Brave”, “Legacy Of Kings”, and “Renegade”, points of reference that we will probably never experience again…
Rating: 6/10
Editor: Kostas Kafritsas
Related Link: HAMMERFALL – Facebook Page
