#24 - Top of 2019

Sabaton - The Great War (Nuclear Blast)

Sabaton triumphantly returned once more last year, with their latest studio release being a concept album for World War One. The band has, at times, been vilified by many in the metal community for the poppy and cliche way of songwriting, as well as the upbeat euro-power sound around sensitive real-world subjects. And yet they continue to be an extremely successful band, with their own distinct take on a much maligned genre, combining epic upbeat vocals with engaging historical subjects and, at times, acting as a getaway for many people to educate themselves on the pivotal moments of history. This album does not deviate from the formula, however its narrow focus on a specific time period, allows the band to weave narratives around key moments that left their mark in history, as well as comment on the nature of the great war in general. The album kicks off with "The Future of Warfare" which acts as an intro and a commentary on how the Great War changed perception around war. "Seven Pillars of Wisdom" details the adventures of T.E. Lawrence during the war, while the anthemic (and possibly winner of catchiest song of the year) "82nd All the Way" talks about the heroics of Alvin York. "The Attack of the Dead Men", another excellent track, details the desperate counterattack of Osowiec, under the horrifying effects of Mustard Gas, while "Devil Dogs" details the successful allied offensive at the Battle of Belleau Wood and "Red Baron" is about the infamous German pilot Manfred von Richthofen (Iced Earth have also written a track about him!). The rest of the tracks from the "Great War" to "In Flanders Fields" are more about the horror and effect the war had on the minds of men, as well as presenting a more sombre and downbeat side of the horrors of history compared to the anthem filled first part of the album, with "Fields of Verdun", being the standout track on that part of the album. Overall a great effort from the band, that will be very popular among fans of power metal and historical reminiscence.


94.1/100

Below is the music video for the song "Great War" and the lyric videos for the songs "82nd All the Way" and "Attack of the Dead Men".