Gods and Generals

I'm sorry, Civil War, but you will never be able to escape the Sabaton comparisons. It doesn't matter how many albums you write, you will always be regarded as a side-effect to the Swedish power metal masters. It's not just because you contain four ex-members of Sabaton, but also because your lyrics and music bear so much resemblance, it may as well be Joakim behind it all! That being accepted, it's much easier to approach Civil War's original material with a focused attitude. Similar as it may be to Broden & co. - the Swedes' newest effort, "Gods & Generals", is of impressive quality.

Not straying too far from the formula they had established on 2013's "The Killer Angels", Civil War have managed to craft a dozen power metal hymns which are both memorable and anthemic. "Gods & Generals" expands on the sound using a more varied keyboard performance provided by the excellent Daniel Myrh. In addition to the usual synths which carry the melody, there is a well-defined orchestra sound which punctuates and enhances songs like "Bay of Pigs" and "War of the World" (the latter especially - that intro is stunning!).

Everything else in the Civil War camp is pretty much rolling along as usual though. Nils Patrick Johansson's distinctive crooning is as familiar as ever; he may hit some duff notes occasionally ("Schindler's Ark"), but he is nothing if not powerful and emotive. However, I question the requirement of 3 guitarists. I know bands like Skalmold and even the mighty Iron Maiden also have this surplus of musicians - but Civil War's sound is already massively layered by the choirs and keyboards, that I think losing one guitarist might be a benefit.

The production does a great job of bringing the melodies to the forefront of the mix for the majority of the time, as it is the melodic hooks and leads that really drive the pace on this album. But sometimes the chunky rhythms of the bass become beautifully prominent, such as in the menacing march of "The Colours on my Shield". And what a pleasant variety it conveys! That's one of the beauties of this album - the variety. The up-tempo double-kick gallops like "War of the World" and "USS Monitor" contrast wonderfully with the emotion-packed hymns like "Tears from the North" and "Schindler's Ark". Those who dismiss power metal as being repetitive and indistinguishable from itself would learn a lesson from this record.

The structure of the album isn't perfect. The more mid-tempo tracks like "Back to Iwo Jima" and "Knights of Dalecarlia" are unwelcome towards the end of the album, portraying a sense of sluggishness. But the previously mentioned "The Colours on my Shield" saves the day by giving the listener a powerful, yet pompous, anthemic stomp right at the climax of the record. Perfection does lie, however, in the choruses. Just like Sabaton (sorry!) each song has a superbly catchy and interesting chorus which never tires!

On "Gods & Generals" there is both quality and quantity. Sprawled out over its 12 tracks are memorable hooks, history lessons, riffs ("Bay of Pigs" especially!), soaring choral vocals and a touch of theatricality. Sabaton mark II they may be - but let that not quash their spirit. They are more than capable of entertaining the most die-hard power metal fans. And who knows? Maybe a tour with both bands in the future?

"We are the sons of the power brigade,
Walking the endless mile!
Riding the storm and we'll never back down,
Legends never die!
So kneel before the colours on my shield!"