Prog/power metallers from Thessaloniki, Wardrum, returns with their sophomore effort called “Desolation” after last year’s really good debut (“Spadework”). Having recruited a new singer Yannis Papadopoulos (whose name was also found in Crosswind), Wardrum displays a clearer and more mature musical direction compared to “Spadework” thus the overall sonic result is definitely qualitative and absolutely enjoyable.
In regards with the compositions themselves, the band doesn’t offer much differentiation to the debut record and I am sure that all the fans of prog/power sound with an emphasis on lyricism and melody will definitely find lots of interesting elements on “Desolation”. Apart from the excellent voice of Yannis Papadopoulos, special notice should be made to Kostas Vretto’s guitar parts that uplifts the overall level of the 12 songs that are found on the album. However, I would have loved to listen to a better production in the vocal department as Papadopoulos sounds “isolated” and “weak” in the final mix.
Wardrum deserves the attention of the traditional European metal fans.
Highlight: The brilliant cover sleeve was crafted by Piotr Szafraniec.
