Be all you can be as a person and never accept limitations."
And the lyrics on Gods Of War are metaphors about overcoming the obstacles in our lives breaking free of whatever is restraining us. Mythology is the exploration of basic human themes like life, death, jealousy, love and revenge: the things that motivate people.
"We're ‘The Warrior Souls of Heavy Metal,' says guitarist Karl Logan. MANOWAR's predominant message has always been "believe in yourself." This is why so many fans find these lyrics to be a constant source of inspiration. It's metal MANOWAR and only MANOWAR does." "When people listen to this record for the first time," he says, "They will think, ‘this is not metal.' But it's not the metal they're used to hearing. Singer Eric Adams believes it the birth of a new metal sound. "One must pass many of life's trials to achieve victory."Īlthough MANOWAR albums are known for their high quality productions-Fighting The World (The band's fifth release) was metal's first full-digital recording-Gods Of War is the band's most epic undertaking to date. "The Immortal Warrior's journey is a reflection of all of our lives," says bassist Joey DeMaio. Where the enigmatic Immortal Warrior, whose imposing figure is seen on the covers of MANOWAR's studio albums and DVDs, ultimately concludes his journey is up to the listener to discover. His journey from darkness into light takes listeners from the beginning to the end of this record, which is the way this record should be heard: non stop. The Warrior is aided by the four sons of Odin, his elite guards, who guide him on his way. The main character is known to us as The Immortal Warrior, who is on a quest to earn his rightful place in Valhalla alongside Odin, the God Of War. This tale, which unfolds throughout soon-to-be MANOWAR classics like "Loki, God Of Fire," "The Sons of Odin", "Glory, Majesty, Unity," and the awe-inspiring epic "Hymn Of The Immortal Warriors" revolves around a central character, who is supported by four other characters.
Fittingly, the first chapter in this album series details the history and exploits of the almighty father of the Norse Gods, Odin, whose power and wisdom were unmatched among the Gods and hailed on the battlefield with human sacrifice. Gods Of War is the first in a cycle of concept albums paying tribute to different war gods. The band's 10th studio album not only exceeded fan expectation, it just might be the cornerstone of a legacy of classics that includes Into Glory Ride, Kings Of Metal and Warriors Of The World.Īlthough MANOWAR did create the conceptual "Achilles, Agony and Ecstasy in Eight Parts" for their 1992 classic The Triumph Of Steel, the band have never created an entire concept album. It is this drive-making the band so oblivious to most ignorant critics it often seems as if our heroes exist in a musical vacuum-that has helped MANOWAR create Gods Of War. The band's members remain steadfast in their resolve: to deliver to their ever-growing international legions of die-hard fans the brand of metal they demand to hear. The inclusion of a 100 piece orchestra and a 100 piece choir as well as a legendary fireworks display timed to their final piece of music: what a way to keep the fans wanting more!įor MANOWAR's members, however, the mission remains far from accomplished.Īt a time when even bands with the word "metal" in their names dismiss the greatest rock genre ever, MANOWAR's music will never be tainted by trends or diluted by outside pressure. The Earthshaker Festival in Germany - July 23rd 2005-featured the largest heavy metal stage ever built. Having conquered the world time and again since the band's inception, what's left for these warriors, these kings, to prove? What is the possible impetus for the band to forge ahead? No one would have faulted MANOWAR's members had they laid down their musical weapons to savor the spoils of their conquests. This is the fate MANOWAR's members could have accepted in 2007. His enemies vanquished, the challengers to his throne dispatched, it is time for the triumphant king to rest. Though his thick muscles bear the scars of his many hard-fought battles, his steel-eyed gaze over his vast kingdom shows how proud and mighty he remains.
Joey DeMaio, during a 2006 interview with Rock Hard Magazine.Īt the end of the film classic Conan The Destroyer, the title character sits on his throne. I believe in metal more than anybody you've ever met.Īnd another thing, I'm prepared to die for metal.