Truth is, I was tired of the trend that had started in Greece with Grave Digger back in ’96, when they had released “Tunes Of War” (which had –not so accidentally- just followed the successful epic movie’s “Braveheart” release), and was followed by the also-but not equally-successful “Knights Of The Cross”. I wouldn’t say I had high expectations when I learned about their new release “The Clans Will Rise Again”, and my first thought was that, like so many others, it is an effort to make a comeback to their fans by composing a sequel of their most successful album, with actually the title and the album’s cover being the only true similarity with the prequel.

I was finally really pleased to say that the bored expression on my face was instantly turned into a pleasant surprise when the first notes hit the cd player. My skepticism had totally failed. Right after the intro “Days of Revenge” with the bagpipe and the atmospheric drums putting us right away into the Scottish spirit, a storm of powerful compositions break off, combined with catchy heavy tunes and memorable riffs you just can’t get out of your mind. The epic choruses, like the one of “Hammer Of The Scots”, the self titled “The Clans Will Rise Again”, “Rebels”, bring back the power of the good old German power metal. As the press release informs us, the album is not a historical concept like “Tunes Of War”, but it refers to the people, the mysticism and the atmosphere of Scotland in general. It was produced by Chris Boltendahl (who is the only member left from the original line up) and mixed by Jorg Umbreit at their new guitarist’s studio. The outcome is totally satisfying, with the sound being fresh and clear, while the compositions remind us of old good times. Very big advantage is the contribution of their new guitarist Axel Ritt (Domain), who has given the band something they have been missing for years, like solid, big guitars and memorable and melodic solos. Even the vocals of Chris Boltendahl, who has never been among my favorites, sounds much more mature and fitting than ever. Besides the powerful sound of the tracks, we also have more atmospheric and slower moments, like the monumental “Whom The Gods Love” and “Valley Of Tears”. “Coming Home”, a song full of Scottish spirit, much created by the leading sound of the bagpipe, makes you walk around in highlands with your imagination, while the sentimental, epic ballad “When Rain Turns to Blood” closes he album.

It is finally really comforting to see the amount of good albums already released in the present year. “The Clans Will Rise Again” is definitely among them, not only as a satisfactory release, but as one that has already a high place among this year’s favorite albums. It is by far Grave Digger’s best release for more than the last 10 years.