WARZAW – Werewolves On Wheels

Solid Old School Metal

Formed in Trondheim, Norway in 2020 Warzaw has self-produced and released their debut full-length album Werewolves on Wheels. The band promises a reminiscence to the glory days of 80s Heavy Metal, which for the most part they deliver with this album. The writers in the band are also the twin guitarists (and you can tell, in a good way) Håvard Alvarez and Trond Jullumstrø, with the latter also engineering the album and playing bass. The vocals though not ground breaking are solid by Daniel Rønning, with Mats Sødahl laying down the perfect drums for the music.

Full Moon Not Required

As technology improves and more veteran bands gain access, more and more bands are able to self-produce their music and really pull it off. Warzaw is one of those bands, putting together a very strong debut effort on their own. Recorded at Lair Shrediablo and Studio Nubdal in June-July 2020, the album was produced by the band and Mixed and mastered by Roar Nubdal. Warzaw gives us some excellent riff-based metal, with twin guitars echoing of early vintage Iron Maiden more than once. Daniel Rønning’s vocals are energetic well done, though the vocal parts at times feel a little underwhelming on the opening track. Fortunately as the album continues, the songs get better and better.

Top Picks

Normally the opening track is on this list, but for this reviewer track #3 “Adieu” stands tall with its straight ahead punch in the face of shout along vocals and chunking guitars. Top that off with excellent guitar solos trading back and forth, followed by harmonies that take you back to classics from Judas Priest or Accept. Other stand outs include “Dragging Knuckles” with its insanely addictive riffs and “Deathwave” with harmony guitar work that drives this kick ass tune all the way home.

Final Notes

The band’s stated purpose was to remind the audience of the great heavy Metal from the 80s and for this reviewer they have achieved that and more. Is the album perfect? No, but does it need to be? If you love total guitar driven 80s metal with straight ahead, driving energy then you already know the answer. Werewolves on Wheels has a lot to offer, and should definitely have a place in your music collection.

Lineup

Daniel Rønning – Lead Vocals
Håvard Alvarez – Lead & rhythm guitars, backing vocals
Trond Jullumstrø – Lead & rhytm guitars, bass, backing vocals
Mats Sødahl – Drums, backing vocals

Werewolves on Wheels Tracklist

1.    Werewolves on Wheels
2.     The Second Banana
3.     Adieu
4.     Dragging Knuckles
5.     Midas Touch
6.     Burner
7.     Spitfire
8.     Deathwaves
9.     Swamplands
10.     Mind Eraser
11.     Switchblade Renegade