Crown The New Kings
Diesel-fueled, high-octane, pedal to the metal, fist-pumping, neck-breaking heavy metal headbanging mania for fans of early RAVEN, ANVIL, WARFARE, ACCEPT, MOTORHEAD, and everything 80’s.
CD FEATURES:
• Sophomore album by the NWOTHM combo from Gävleborg, Sweden
• Multi-page booklet with lyrics, band photos, info, credits
• Produced, mixed, and mastered by Cederick Forsberg at Studio Tvåtakt
• Cover Art by Mina Walkure
• CD pressing limited to 500 copies worldwide
LINE-UP
Daniel Olsson- Guitars/Vocals
Marcus Winchester- Bass
Oskar Holmgren- Drums
Adam Blom- Guitars
REVIEW
LEADBREAKER’s debut record from 2020 was a sleeper hit for me that year, and definitely one that I hold a soft spot for. I’ve been awaiting a follow-up ever since release, and finally LEADBREAKER hath returned. Several tracks from it remain in my regular rotation, notably “Sacrifice” and “New World Order”.
I’m a huge fan of their simple but still sharp logo, legible and distinctive. Solid. The album cover is such a fun treat too. The Easter egg of the debut cover being present as well is such a great touch. Kudos to Mina Walkure of BRONZE (fka KRAMP) for her work!
“Overdrive” starts things off with a bang as the first song on the album. The opening chords rang out furiously, with the bass and drums like a driving force that recalled sound of a locomotive. Olsson’s incredible vocal range stands out here, accompanied by a powerful NWOBHM-tinged riff that follows the chorus. The track reached new heights when the tempo changed around the 2 minute mark. The mixing on the track is superb, transporting you back to the early 80s with its authentic sound. All told, this one was a heck of a way to open the album
“Bitchtit Highway” followed suit and proved to me that I am not the only human being who says ‘bitchtit’ (instant 5 star song). The mid-tempo melody flows smoothly, gently rocking my senses. The guitar solo towards the end electrifies the atmosphere, igniting the song and making it shine brilliantly.
“Hammer of Vengeance” unleashes powerful riffs that pierce through the air. The thundering drums add a sense of intensity, although the song itself didn’t immediately captivate me like the previous two. Nevertheless, I believe it will grow on me over time, as the mesmerizing riffing throughout the song is too exceptional to disregard.
“The Machine” features a standout solo towards the end, a moment that truly dazzles. There was a magical riff around the 4-minute mark that evoked pure fascination. The addictive chorus/title drop becomes a captivating band chant, adding to the fun of the track. I must also commend the bassline in this song, especially the spectacular bassline right before the fadeout, which left me in awe.
“Riot” begins the second half of the record with an absolute ripper, and is also its longest track at a bit over 7 minutes. LEADBREAKER wasted no time with this one either, each moment of its entire length has a purpose and a memorable moment. From the riffs to the harmonies, and the incredible extended solo, the guitar work is on another plane. Olsson’s vocals, and the backing vox of the other band members, were a treat to behold. With a monster of a tempo shift at 3:30, and more good riffs, plus the band chanting, there’s not enough good I can say about this track. It easily becomes my favorite on the album thus far.
“Meat Heart” is a slower affair than the rest of the record, but I think that helps it to stand out from its disc-mates. The bluesy vocal delivery after the initial opening riff, but before the first chorus was masterful. A great way to build up before the chorus to make it more impactful. Really love the way the guitar solo came together in this one. It has an entirely different feel from the other solos so far. Throw in a reprised blues-interlude after said solo and I was completely infatuated with this one. Found myself reciting ‘Meat Heart’ for hours to come.
“Omerta” is the second longest track on the record at 6:30 and in contrast to “Riot”, it felt like it. This just wasn’t hitting for me, despite the clear talent behind it and Olsson once again belting his ass off. Like “Hammer of Vengeance” I do think this one will grow on me the more that I listen to the album.
“Electro Raider” has an electric opening riff, with some gnarly basslines accompanying it like charging cavalry. This was a fast-paced blitz of a track that never once slowed down. Making it the final track on the album might seem a bit strange, but it worked for me a lot. This was a solid way to end the album.
Conclusion
LEADBREAKER is batting 2 for 2 for me thus far, and while I don’t think this is better than their debut record, I do think that it’s on par with it. Olsson’s vocals continue to be a treat to the ears, and hearing the rest of the band each getting an opportunity to shine through is a testament to the well-oiled machine that LEADBREAKER is becoming.
Standout track: “Riot”
TheNWOTHM Score: 8/10
LEADBREAKER’s “Overdrive” released on 31 May, 2024
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The Nwothm 
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