Wolfpakk - Nature Strikes Back

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Metal is a never ending source of recycled inspiration. What these words mean: Metal evolves and goes on, no matter how many tears complainers can shed (because they want to live in the past), always trying to fit on new times. Obviously that there are many musical works based on old musical formulas, but it doesn’t mean that an album or band is bad for that. “Nature Strikes Back”, the latest release from WOLFPAKK is a fine example of how things are different, even playing something old.

This album is filled with many guests, to give the songs different and personal touches, but it mainly presents the same old and good German Heavy/Power Metal that arose after HELLOWEEN, RAGE and BLIND GUARDIAN started to sharp even more the melodic side of the genre. In few words: the same old and good equilibrium between weight, melody and technique is what is shown here, so it’s nothing really new at all. But in the hands of Mark and Michael (the masterminds behind the band), all the elements shine as new and fresh, with energy and really charming melodies. Yes, it’s a very good release.

“Nature Strikes Back” was produced and mixed by Mark and Michael (the last one did the mastering as well), all to keep the sound quality amazingly clean and defined, but with a very good dose of musical aggressiveness and weight. It’s a great work, done in the most classical way possible. All the songs are fine pieces of German Heavy Metal, but the charming melodies and choruses of “The Legend” (great backing vocals and keyboards as well), the traditional German Heavy Metal insight used on “Beyond this Side”, the introspective ambiance created by the keyboards on “Land of Wolves” (very good chorus and Opera backing vocals), the abrasive 80’s essence of “Restore Your Soul” (that becomes a bit accessible during the chorus) and “One Day”, and that old (and excellent) ambiance of German Heavy/Power Metal presented on “Revolution” are the best tracks.

To make something old shine as new is not an easy work, but WOLFPAKK knows how to make it. Hear “Nature Strikes Back” and hear for yourselves.

Musicianship: 9
Songwriting: 8
Memorability: 8
Production: 8