WarpriestThe cover of this demo depicts a Final Fantasy-looking scene complete with a dragon, unicorn and wizard. With that said, I was partially expecting a death metal sound to this CD. Never judge according to appearance, however, because I was certainly wrong on this account.
Warpriest features a more modern hardcore sound made popular earlier this decade by bands such as American Nightmare, Bane and The Hope Conspiracy. You can easily use those three aforementioned bands to collect Warpriest’s sound. Take Bane’s metal-tinged hardcore guitar assault and add American Nightmare’s rapid fire rhythm section while letting The Hope Conspiracy’s vocalist growl into the microphone and I believe you would get something similar to this demo CD. I should also make a special point to add that I’m particularly impressed with the bass guitar on this CD. It really fills a lot of potential holes and at times really keeps the momentum moving forward. The production for this demo is also very good with no complaints as it seems to be mixed very competently.
The demo includes a small lyric sheet. Each of the 3 tracks feature a lyrical assault on the powers-that-be without being overtly political. Broad and biting attacks such as “ time for our masters to accept their fate” on ‘Vengeance’, however, the lyrics don’t berate the listener into their views as most political bands will do. That is why I would never deem War priest a political band. The lyrics are more of a socio-political dissatisfaction with the rich and empowered. Kind of a working man’s rant to his suppressors.
Make a point of tracking down this demo. I had a tough time finding any real information on this band, but that shouldn’t deter you from going to their myspace profile and keeping tabs on any future releases or possible shows in your area.
Rating: 4/5
Songs Worthy of Replay: ‘Mirror Image’ & ‘Vengeance’
Synopsis: Warpriest MySpace