War of Ages – Wages of Sin

From what I recall, I used liked War of Ages. I haven’t given them a listen in about a year or so but as soon as the first track started up I immediately recalled what I liked and disliked about this band.

When it comes down to it, War of Ages is a metal band. Think early Sepultura or Obituary and feel free to apply whatever preconceived notions you have of metal. Thus, they generally follow the metal formula. That formula including rough, screamed/shouted vocals, guitar solos, and heavy double-bass beats, etc. Unlike the aforementioned bands, War of Ages seems to be riding the new metal-core wave. So, in addition to the old thrash metal formula, one can add break downs to the list of gimmicks… err, techniques. In recent times I’ve grown to, how one might say, “despise breakdowns.” There’s something about repeatedly playing an open e chord to the rhythm of a bass drum that irritates the piss out of me. Unfortunately for me, War of Ages probably has a breakdown per song. It feels so unnecessary to have such a talented band playing these basic breakdowns; especially to just allow some dipshits to spin kick air and throw punches at nothing in particular. On the positive side, at least there are no lame melodic vocals (that probably would have ruined the whole album for me).

I realize that the previous paragraph generally fails to point out the positive aspects of this band. If I may, let me direct you, the reader to a previous review I did on this band right here.

I don’t really feel like reiterating anything I may have formerly said (therefore I won’t). This previous review was of the last album they put out and War of Ages has barely changed since (evidently, I’m the only one to have changed). I seemed to have been all about this “heavy music” at the time, hence my lavish praise of the band.

Moving on then. Arise and Conquer, to me, sounds more or less like Pride of the Wicked. They still have the neat-o riffs, the arduous breakdowns, decent drumming, and shamelessly Christian lyrics. If you were a fan of the band before, chances are you’ll still enjoy them. Also, if you’re a fan of their peers, this band might just be for you. War of Ages seems to have some pretty heavy Myspace coverage, so check them out if you think they might just tickle your fancy.

P.S. Kudos to the band/artist for the cover art; it’s of a gnarly dude shoving a flag/pole down the throat of a dragon (thought that would be worth mentioning).