Sabaton - Legends

Buckle up kids, it’s time for another history lesson from Sweden’s power metal virtuosos, Sabaton. Departing from the 20th-century war themes that dominated their last two albums, 'Legends' broadens the scope, delving into a wider span of history. This time, the band turns its focus to remarkable individuals and their legacies, from fearless warriors and mighty emperors to notorious figures who left their mark on the world.

Bassist Pär Sundström says “Eleven tracks that cover eleven iconic legendary stories. This time we look further back in history than we have the past few years, going to times that I think are very exciting. As someone who's always been into the history of the Middle Ages, knights and the legends of old, it felt incredible to finally bring those stories into the Sabaton universe.”

Intriguingly, each figure also has a dedicated vinyl edition, turning the physical release into part of the storytelling itself.

Musically, this is unmistakably Sabaton. The thunderous drumming, triumphant riffs, and Joakim Brodén’s commanding vocals ready to march you into battle remain the core of the sound, but there’s a renewed sense of colour and adventure in the song writing, especially with some of the nostalgic synth sounds on tracks such as 'Templar' or the phaser on 'The Cycle of Songs'. Choosing to dedicate each song to a different individual in time gives the album a lot more variety than perhaps previously.

Standouts include 'Crossing the Rubicon', an infectious anthem that makes it clear why it was chosen as a single. 'Lightning at the Gates' and 'Impaler' were also personal favourites. 'Maid of Steel' deserves special mention for its stirring portrayal of Joan of Arc, a brilliant inclusion in a genre that too often overlooks the stories of historical women.

'Till Seger' (Swedish for “To Victory”) was initially speculated by fans to reference the Swedish Youth Workers’ song of the same name. However, rather than being a direct cover, it appears to serve more as an embodiment of its spirit, a powerful anthem delivered proudly in the band’s native tongue.

The band's UK tour, scheduled to kick off in December this year, will feature an orchestra dubbed "The Legendary Orchestra", and after listening to the album, I feel fans will truly be able to experience the full depth of the songs from 'Legends' live without any compromise.

Overall 'Legends' feels like a bold and necessary evolution. Expanding their universe but remaining true to what fans know them for best.

Legends will be released on Friday 17th October