Stormwarrior

10 years and I've haven't come across these guys once...Where have I been?

Stormwarrior are everything that is good about German Power Metal. Take Gamma Ray, add hint of Manowar style comradeship and throw in a Viking/War theme and you get a pretty good idea of what to expect with "Heading Northe".

Fair enough, they do sound a lot like Gamma Ray, and vocalist Lars Ramcke does have that whole Kai Hansen thing going on, but I don't care...I love Gamma Ray. A little cheesy for sure, but these guys just churn out riffs like it's second nature and, combined with the fantastic melodies and ultra catchy choruses, there are songs on here that will be in your head for days.

OK, it may not be the most original album you're likely to hear…but it's simply one of those albums that you will have nothing bad to say about. There is plenty of variety on here, and there is not one weak track that comes to mind, all stand out in their own individual way. Again, it's a case of why mess with a winning formula, when Stormwarrior can do it so well.

If you're into bands such as Gamma Ray, Helloween, Blind Guardian and love Vikings, be sure to check out Stormwarrior!!