Heavy Load are back in business after a 40-year hiatus! Can you imagine?! I can’t recall a band returning to the music scene after such a long time! I believe their entire experience at the Up the Hammers festival in 2016, when they received “The Medal of Honour”, sparked their flame. The new album, “Riders of the Ancient Storm”, features three members of the original Heavy Load line-up: Ragne Wahlquist on vocals, lead guitars and keyboards, Styrbjörn Wahlquist on drums & vocals, and Torbjörn Ragnesjöon on bass, along with the new guitarist Nic Savage (ex-Jackal’s Wrath, ex-Pain Killer, ex-Steelwing).
The most challenging part of releasing a new album after all these years is trying to figure out how to please the fans while at the same time not replicating yourself. And I kinda think that Heavy Load have succeeded in both of them. Musically, the new album blends heavy metal with hard rock and NWOBHM elements, along with a few classical touches. Ragne told Grande Rock (read more here) that he’s a big fan of classical music; therefore, he also plays violin & trumpet and dabbled a bit in flute and clarinet on the new album. Both Ragne and Styrbjörn are responsible for the recordings, the mixing, and the mastering. The production is warm, full, and organic. This is the essence of analogue sound. Moreover, all the performances are passionate and energetic.
From the opening chords to the final notes, the album is a non-stop thrill ride of heavy riffs, powerful vocals, and thunderous drums. It’s true that after a four-decade break, the band has created an album that not only stays true to its roots but also pushes the boundaries of their sound further. The opener, “Ride the Night”, is the definition of a melodic metal anthem. “We Rock the World” is a high-octane rocker that celebrates the power of rock and roll music. “Walhalla Warriors” is a massive epic track about an adventure on a longship that travels over stormy seas. “Angel Dark” is a gloomy track with the band’s signature heavy riffs & leads about “light & dark”. “Slave No More” is a long atmospheric heavy/doom song with a sweet melancholic 80s vibe. “Raven is Calling” is a straightforward heavy/power metal piece that features a few (neo) classical elements. “Sail Away” is a lyrical mid-tempo song with atmospheric and classical parts as well as appealing melodies. “Butterfly Whisperings” is an unexpected and wonderful piece of acoustic music that offers a moment of tranquility. This is a bonus track that is not included on the vinyl.
“Riders of the Ancient Storm” is a superb album that captures the essence of Heavy Load’s sound while also showcasing their growth and evolution throughout the years. It requires several listens to get into the new album, though. This album will gratify the band’s followers, as well as fans of heavy metal, and is likely to win over new ones. In a few words, “Riders of the Ancient Storm” honors the band’s legacy and ongoing dedication to their distinctive heavy metal sound.
