Wotan
Carmina Barbarica

Mannilla road, Warlord, Cirith Ungol, Manowar... this is what our own Wotan are, a niche band (too much so) in Italy but one that has found fortune abroad (Greece above all). The first true album for our Wotan who, after numerous singles and demos, manage to delight us with this stunning and mature CD: Carmina Barbarica.

It starts with the beautiful "Lord of the wind" where the overwhelming chorus seems tailor-made for live performances... After this, we have "Under the Sign of Odin's Raven," perhaps the most epic and dark song, with references to Cirith Ungol for the dark melody. (excellent performance by the singer). Here we arrive at the fast-paced and epic "Hussard de la Mort," a decisive track that culminates in a splendid chorus. The next "Ride of Templars" is a great song followed closely by the wonderful "Innoxia," a track that would have been a good fit for the Manowar of "Into Glory Ride"... and I've said it all. "Wrath of North" and "King of Crows" flow pleasantly and cohesively, and we then arrive at "Stone Giants," where we once again savor Cirith Ungol and their dark phrasing. Here is the splendid "Black Conqueror," perhaps the most beautiful track on the album, epic and powerful as ever... stunning. After the powerful and fitting "The cave," we come to another hit... "Thermopilis," where Greek history is honored, and there's even a piece narrated in Greek dating back to the chronicles of Herodotus... epic as always and truly admirable... The album closes with "Iron Shadows," where a magnificent chorus dominates.

Well... so dear defenders if you feel like going into battle with Odin or riding with the Templars, there is no better album for you!