Album Review: Wanton Attack - Wanton Attack
Reviewed by Neil Bolton
The duo of Niklas Holm and Micael Zetterberg are the skin and bones of Wanton Attack.
This Swedish pair formed Wanton Attack in 2019 and this is their self titled debut album. They both have roots and love for the traditional heavy metal sound and the first track from this album displays that fact flawlessly; 'Demonic Forces Attack' begins with atmospheric rain fall, acoustic guitars and a whispering voice before a bass guitar rasps and the metal begins. Clean vocals sit in with a trad metal sound, bouncing and banging along with tempo and pace. Holm carries out bass and guitar duties while Zetterberg accomplishes the task of drums and vocals. Both gentleman carry out their respective roles with style and obvious enjoyment of the music they create.
The familiar entertaining metal sound continues into the title track. With a scream of “Attack” the two carry on creating music forcing me to carry this review out in my denim cut off! A head banging solo brings this track to completion.
The vibe does not diminish with 'The Beast Will Be Tamed' with the warm familiar sound that manages to be recognisable but never old or stale. Riffs a-plenty spring along with power and a song shaping ability akin to early Mercyful Fate. In fact an obvious influence and passion for this band is evident on this album, and in turn should appeal to any other fans of this heavy metal staple.
The mix by Magnus Johnson manages to sound both raw and professional in its design, not too perfect but far, far from sounding like it was a practice session in a garage. To say that this band consists of only two members is never evident in this recording; the talent and song writing craft is evident though. This album drips in heavy metal throughout its twenty-eight minute length.
I expect any live performances of this music will entail recruitment of fellow metal lovers, who will no doubt perform in front of similar lovers of the riff laden music we love and follow.
