Manowar is a band that definitely needs no reference, since it is one of the bands with the most dedicated fans, but also with the most sworn enemies in history of heavy metal. There are also some people who acknowledge Manowar’s contribution to world’s heavy metal discography with classic albums, but now they see them as a shadow of their glorious past that have nothing more to offer. No matter what you think, you should still agree with the fact that, beyond their latest releases and your opinion about them, their contribution to the heavy metal scene has been huge and they have been and still are a major source of inspiration for many bands. 

In my opinion, “Into Glory Ride” is their most representative album (followed by “Hail To England” and “Sign Of The Hammer”) and the most epic, inspired and atmospheric work they have ever presented. It was originally released through Megaforce in 1983, but there is also the remastered version of Metalblade which was released in 2001. The remastered CD does not present any radical changes in the sound of the album, beyond the fact that the songs are a bit clearer, but very close to the original. It also includes rare photos of the band and notes from the music journalist Vinny Cecolini.

The albums starts with “Warlord”, a track which sounds a lot like coming from their debut album “Battle Hymns”, since it has this rock n’ roll feeling, and gives no clue for the epic storm that is about to follow. “Secret of Steel” is one of the most epic songs ever written, slow, with the vocals of Eric Adams better than ever, nice solos and riffs from Ross The Boss and a majestic atmosphere. “Gloves Of Metal” is a heavy metal anthem, while “Gates Of Valhalla” that follows is another epic, slow composition with the leading bass lines of Joey De Maio giving their turn to the outbursts of Ross The Bosse’s riffs.“Hatred”, a very slow tempo and dark song that touches the genre of doom, gives you the creeps with its totally avenging feeling, with its too long duration being its only drawback. The last two album tracks “Revelations (Death’s Angel)”, with the galloping drums of Scot Colombus and pounding rhythm, leading you to paths only they can, as well as one of the best solos Ross The Boss has ever played, and “March For Revenge”(By The Soldiers Of Death”, are two heavy metals hymns, trademarks in epic/power metal history.

No matter what your problems are, take the time to listen to this album once more, it will make you believe that nothing is inevitable, that you hold the key to secret powers and that you can overcome any difficulties if you really fight for it.

This is the grandeur of Manowar and the reason we love them so much and we always will! 

Track list

1. "Warlord"
2. "Secret of Steel"
3. "Gloves of Metal"
4. "Gates of Valhalla"
5. "Hatred"
6. "Revelation (Death's Angel)"
7. "March for Revenge (By the Soldiers of Death)"