On May 13th, 2021, we heard the sad news of the passing of Bill Tsamis. Sadly, one of the most creative, original, and underrated guitarists and songwriters left us at the age of 60 to join the Big Heavens Band. Everyone assumed that this was it and that Warlord wouldn’t be able to release any new stuff anymore. Fortunately, Mark Zonder (the other founding member) decided to resurrect Warlord, following Tsamis’ last wishes that he and vocalist Giles Lavery continue the Warlord legacy and play live shows.
As Zonder told me (read more here), he and Bill had been working on a bunch of stuff, and when the right musicians were found, they started recording the new album, “Free Spirit Soar”, which includes music & lyrics by Tsamis, some lyrics by Giles, and even some original guitar parts by Bill himself. Thus, apart from Mark Zonder on drums and Giles Lavery on vocals, the other members are Philip Bynoe on bass, Jimmy Waldo on keyboards, Eric Juris on guitar, and Diego Pires on guitar (live). So, the material was there, the guys were ready, and they started working on the new Warlord tracks along with some “old” ones, like the two Lordian Guard songs “Behold a Pale Horse” and “Revelation XIX”, which were re-arranged and re-recorded and finally released under the Warlord moniker. “The Rider” is reminiscent of the band’s most lyrical moments, while “Conquers”, already a fan favorite, has a Euro-power metal chorus that’s catchy. “Worms of the Earth” has that classic Warlord feel to it and will become a new favorite as well. The same goes for “The Watchman”, which has those characteristic Tsamis melodies and harmonies throughout. “Free Spirit Soar” is a melodic power metal song, while “The Bell Tolls” is a heavy mid-tempo with atmospheric touches. “Alarm” has some nice harmonies, and “Twin” has that distinct Tsamis music trademark all over it. An amazingly lyrical and atmospheric heavy song!
The final result is enhanced by the warm and dynamic sound. The album was mixed by Riccardo Demarosi (David Reece) and mastered by Patrick W. Engel (Amon Amarth, Armored Saint, Cloven Hoof, Destruction). The production was done by Giles Lavery and Jimmy Waldo.
After listening to the album many times, I can definitely say that “Free Spirit Soar” is an original Warlord album, no matter what! It’s also a touching tribute to the late Tsamis, who is here with his amazing music. I think Bill Tsamis (from the heavens) would be proud that his music is still alive and can be heard. That’s the main reason why Mark and Giles did what they did. If you consider yourself a true Warlord fan, then there’s no excuse not to get this album… if you think otherwise, better make peace with your inner self and go from there…
