ALBUM REVIEW: Feeding The Machine – Wolf

Despite never quite reaching worldwide stardom Swedish speed metallers WOLF have built a solid foundation over the course of their 25 year career. Six years have passed since their highly regarded Devil Seed release so it is finally time for us to gratefully receive the follow up and 8th studio album in the form of Feeding The Machine which is due for release on 13th March via Century Media Records. During the span between releases WOLF have said farewell to two long term members, bassist Anders Modd and drummer Richard Holmgreen. Will this transition signal a new chapter for the band?

Shoot To Kill lets the sirens blare as the riffs begin to get warmed up. The signature vocal stylings of Niklas Stålvind instantly make their presence felt. The upbeat tempo and distinctive guitar tone settles any doubts of WOLF veering off in an unanticipated direction. Guillotine displays addictive melodies and crunchy guitar work which have an instantly accessible quality. Impressive leadwork assists in enhancing the track. Dead Man’s Hand keeps the momentum flowing with a tense atmosphere and a purposeful stride.

Midnight Hour provides powerful vocal lines and sturdy riffing which show exactly why it was an ideal single choice. Mass Confusion emits dark tones and an ominous procession-like pacing combined with intertwining solo segments and following track The Cold Emptiness further builds the tension with pulsing drum beats. The melodies are enticing and show a more theatrical narrative reminiscent of KING DIAMOND, side of WOLF which doesn’t rear its head all too often in their back catalogue.

Title track Feeding The Machine picks up the pace as the galloping riffs lead the way alongside potent bass lines. Devil In The Flesh raises its predecessor with further speed injected instrumentation. Stålvind’s devilish vocal prowess suits the brooding mood perfectly, providing one of the highlights thus far. Spoon Bender takes a more straight forward heavy metal approach whilst still packing a significant punch.

The Raven ups the intensity with pounding drums joining forces with ebbing and flowing guitar work to keep you on your toes. Black Widow expresses further excellently executed solo work to compliment the dramatic prose teeing up A Thief Inside. Mesmerising swathes of riffing assist in allowing WOLF to tie this release up in emphatic fashion.

Feeding The Machine is littered with great standout moments which perfectly depict why WOLF have garnered such an adoring following throughout their career. However, there are a handful of tracks which become victim to the high calibre of their counterparts and kind of become an afterthought in the grand scheme of things. Whether this release has the same impact as Devil Seed and Legions of Bastards is up for debate but there is still a lot to appreciate and encourage you to return.

Rating: 8/10

Feeding The Machine is out now via Century Media Records.

Like WOLF on Facebook.