The Rise of Old-School Metal: A Journey Back in Time
In the realm of heavy metal, a fascinating movement has emerged, harkening back to the glory days of the 80s. Young bands, with a passion for the old-school sound, are creating a buzz, and Sweden seems to be a hotbed for this retro revival. Templar, with their debut album 'Conquering Swords', is a perfect example of this trend, and their sound will take you on a nostalgic journey.
A Metal Time Capsule: Templar's Sound
Templar's music is an ode to the early days of metal, drawing inspiration from cult favorites like Manilla Road and Cirith Ungol, as well as the iconic NWoBHM (New Wave of British Heavy Metal) bands such as Satan and Witchfinder General. But here's where it gets intriguing - they've also infused their sound with a hefty dose of Mercyful Fate influence, which adds a unique twist to their retro style. Imagine a 50-pound sack of wet concrete, and you'll get a sense of the impact Templar aims to make.
Track by Track: A Nostalgic Adventure
'Witchking' kicks things off with a bang, featuring classic 80s guitar riffs that will get your blood pumping. Isak Neffling's vocals on this track are a standout, reminiscent of the early King Diamond, before he embraced his cartoonish evil persona. 'Excalibur' is a powerhouse of a song, with a galloping rhythm and a chorus that's pure epic metal. It's a testament to the band's ability to capture the essence of the 80s sound.
'Exiled in Fire' is a fast-paced, classic metal track with a raw edge, taking us back to the unpolished glory days of NWoBHM. 'Shipwreck' continues the riff-driven fun, with a hint of In Solitude's influence, while 'White Wolf' is an 80s metal masterpiece, avoiding any parody-like tendencies.
The Production: A Vintage Treat
The album's production is a labor of love, meticulously crafted to sound rough and vintage. It captures the warmth and texture of those early 80s recordings, a quality often missing in modern productions. Gustav Harrysson and Teddy Edoff's guitar work is a highlight, paying homage to the proto and epic 80s metal sound, while also adding their own unique twist.
Isak Neffling: The Nostalgic Voice
Isak's vocals are a key element of Templar's sound, and his performance on 'White Wolf' is a standout. It's like listening to the earliest days of Mercyful Fate, a true treat for any metalhead. However, his vocals don't always hit the mark, particularly on 'The Sorceress', where things get a bit awkward. Nonetheless, Isak's presence adds an X-factor to the band, and his nostalgic appeal is undeniable.
Final Thoughts: A Promising Debut
'Conquering Swords' is an engaging debut, showcasing Templar's potential to become a force in the retro metal scene. While the album doesn't reach the heights of greatness consistently, there are moments of brilliance that hint at a bright future. Templar stands at a crossroads, one foot firmly in the past, and the other ready to explore new territories. Their journey ahead promises to be an exciting one.
Rating: 3.0/5.0
Release Date: February 27th, 2026
Label: Jawbreaker
Websites: facebook.com/templarsweden, instagram.com/templar.band
And this is the part most people miss... Templar's sound is a journey, and it's up to you to decide if it's a journey worth taking. What do you think? Is the retro metal movement here to stay, or is it just a fleeting trend? Let's discuss in the comments!
