GLORYHAMMER Space 1993: Wrath Of Kor-Virliaht

Space 1993: Wrath Of Kor-Virliath is the fifth studio album from British power metallers Gloryhammer, released through Napalm Records. Serving as a direct sequel to Space 1992: Rise Of Chaos And Wizards (2015), the album continues the band's sprawling sci-fi fantasy saga. I won't delve too deeply into the storyline here, but it revolves around an outrageously over-the-top intergalactic universe where cosmic battles, ancient magic and heroic quests collide with real Scottish locations such as Aberdeen, Leuchars and Auchtermuchty. Musically, Gloryhammer remain firmly rooted in traditional melodic power metal, enhanced by grandiose orchestral arrangements and larger-than-life choruses. The parallels to late-'90s Rhapsody are impossible to ignore, both in terms of atmosphere and ambition. To be honest, I haven't listened extensively to this genre in the past two decades, and when I do revisit power metal, I usually gravitate towards the genre's classic masterpieces from the 1990s. That said, Gloryhammer are one of the few modern power metal bands that consistently manage to hold my attention, and Space 1993: Wrath Of Kor-Virliath is an undeniably entertaining listen. Strong vocals, excellent musicianship and polished arrangements are matched by memorable songwriting throughout. The band also knows not to take itself too seriously, injecting just the right amount of humour into the mix without undermining the music itself. This may not reinvent the power metal formula, but it delivers exactly what it sets out to do: epic, bombastic and highly enjoyable escapism.

DISCOGRAPHY:

Space 1993: Wrath Of Kor-Virliath (2026)
Return To The Kingdom Of Fire (2023)
Legends From Beyond The Galactic Terrorvortex (2019)
Space 1992: Rise Of The Chaos Wizards (2015)
Tales From The Kingdom Of Fire (2013)