The Italian dwarven power metal army Wind Rose has returned, and they’ve brought with them an album that’s as massive and unyielding as the mountains their mythical personas inhabit. “Trollslayer”, their latest release, is set to drop on October 4, 2024, via Napalm Records, and it’s a joy from start to finish. Full of energy, uplifting hits, and a good anthem or two, this album is everything fans of Wind Rose have come to love and more.
Wind Rose exploded onto the scene with their viral hit “Diggy Diggy Hole,” and since then, they’ve solidified their reputation as a powerhouse in the modern power metal scene. With nearly half a million followers on TikTok and almost a million monthly listeners, their influence continues to grow. “Trollslayer” arrives just in time for their biggest European tour ever, alongside Powerwolf and Hammerfall, and it promises to deliver exactly what fans are craving.
The album kicks off with the epic instrumental “Of Ice and Blood,” setting the stage as a perfect opener, building anticipation with its sweeping melodies and grandiose atmosphere. It’s not long before the energy ramps up with “Dance of the Axes,” a fun mix with catchy refrains and guttural growls that really draws you in for more.
But it’s the party anthems that truly define “Trollslayer”. “The Great Feast Underground” overtakes the listener with its dwarven themed drinking rhythms, a track that’s practically designed for live sing-alongs. Then there’s “Rock and Stone,” inspired by the space dwarf video game Deep Rock Galactic, which throws down the gauntlet as an undeniable anthem to compete with “Diggy Diggy Hole” but I’m not sure it’s quite that catchy. The infectious energy of these tracks is nonetheless sure to make them fan favourites, both on and off the stage.
The album however doesn’t just rely on party tracks. Wind Rose has woven deeper, more serious themes into the heart of “Trollslayer”. The fast-paced “Home of the Twilight” and the upbeat “To Be a Dwarf” showcase the band’s ability to blend catchy melodies with meaningful lyrics. The title track, “Trollslayer,” inspired by Warhammer, brings a powerful, anthemic quality that captures the epic spirit of the album.
As the album draws to a close, Wind Rose shows their ability to evoke emotion with the gripping “No More Sorrow.” This track adds a layer of depth to the album that balances its otherwise high-energy tone but I am personally not sure if this is the right direction for a band full of such joy and fun.
Overall, “Trollslayer” is an unforgettable journey with the medieval spirit of dwarves, in a way that only Wind Rose can get away with. It’s a triumphant return for the band, full of the power, energy, and fun that fans have come to expect. Whether you’re a long-time follower or new to the dwarven army, this album is sure to be one of the highlights of the year.
Rating: 8.5/10
Release Date: 4th October 2024
Label: Napalm Records
Writer: Andy Baqone
Track list:
- Of Ice and Blood
2. Dance of the Axes
3. The Great Feast Underground
4. Rock and Stone
5. To Be a Dwarf
6. Home of the Twilight
7. Trollslayer
8. Legacy of the Forge
9. No More Sorrow
