Anybody who knows me knows European power metal is not my cup of tea. Matter of fact, there are very few bands in the genre that I enjoy. Rage is one of those few. What sets Rage apart from their peers is a sense of speeding ferocity which they’ve maintained their entire career. While some albums are stronger than others, Rage has been consistent for the better part of their 34 year existence (37 if you include their output as Avenger).
Upon listening to their latest album, Wings of Rage, I was concerned at first. The album opens with “True” and “Let Them Rest In Peace”. Both were released as singles and are the weakest tracks on this album. Nuggets of a potentially good song succumb to modern metal trappings similar to the likes of fellow countrymen Kreator and Destruction. “Let Them Rest In Peace” even features a *gasp* breakdown! How could this be?
Thankfully, any doubts I had were cast aside with my favorite track, “Chasing the Twilight Zone”. From this song onward, Rage gives us an album of anthems tailor made for the Wacken masses. They prove their rightful place upon the European power metal throne with not just uplifting headbangers, but equally uplifting ballads. There are a few on this album, but it’s “Shine a Light” which steals the show. I can imagine tens of thousands of maniacs, lighters in the air, singing along to the chorus.
Interestingly, Wings of Rage also features a reworking of the Rage classic, “Higher than the Sky”. This version is heavier and thrashier than the original 1996 version. I must admit, I prefer this recent version. Job well done boys!
If you’ve enjoyed Rage at any point in their career, there’s no question you’re going to enjoy Wings of Rage too. To quote a lyric from their debut, Reign of Fear, “Bang! It’s raw energy!”. This mantra still applies in 2020. Turn it up and feel the power.
7/10
Label: Steamhammer
Genre: Power Metal
For fans of: Grave Digger, Running Wild, Gamma Ray