Whether you are a die-hard fan or a casual listener like me, it’s hard to miss heavy metal crew RUNNING WILD. They are due to release the account of their latest voyage Blood On Blood and judging from the solid sounds it displays, it shows they are still going strong.
No messing around here, it’s straight into the swing of things with the title track. You are immediately treated to the brilliant melodies that RUNNING WILD are well known for producing. It’s a worthy way to start this mighty voyage and you know instantly great times are to be had on this venture.
One of the things I have noticed about RUNNING WILD over the years is their highly skilled ability to create excellent ear worms. These are so brilliant that these stick in your head for seconds after reading or thinking about the song title. Blood On Blood is full of them and below are just some examples of what I mean.
The intro of Say Your Prayers hits you with a bang and takes you along for the ride whether you are ready or not. I noticed similarities between one of their previously released song Stick To Your Guns from album Rapid Foray. This is in terms of strong and empowering beats accompanying a mighty melody. They don’t sound so similar that you can’t tell them apart.
Diamonds And Pearls is one of the singles released from the album and the first one I heard. This is one of those powerful earworms I was telling you about, it’s one where you only have to think about the title and it’s in your head instantly for days. Not that I am complaining, it’s a great melody that makes you want to hijack the next ship in dock and go on a hunt for treasure (or diamonds and pearls in this case).
Crossing The Blades has a similar structure to Ballad Of William Kidd, slow intro that suddenly changes to an upbeat venture that will bring out your inner swashbuckling hero. Given this one is based around The Three Musketeers, these vibes shouldn’t come across as a surprise. Lyrics such as “Crossing the blades, Flashing the steel, we will ride and united we stand” and “all for one and one for all in the end” reinforce this.
Wild Wild Nights is the party track that every metal head needs to play as part of their DJ set in alternative clubs and at house parties. As well as the bold and exciting music, the lyrics are really touching and empowering. The COVID 19 pandemic has meant we haven’t been able to see each other in person for these sorts of nights; with cases easing and restrictions lifting slowly, we are starting to get these wild times back. The lyrical content brings this message fourth and it gives us hope for better times ahead.
It ends gallantly on The Iron Times 1618 – 1648. The opening riff reminded me of Lord Of The Rings, this is due to the majestic melody that emulates the beginning of an quest. It triumphantly marks the end of a successful voyage whilst leaving us in anticipation for the next one or give us the sudden urge to experience this one again and again.
The press release boldly states Blood On Blood represents RUNNING WILD at their best, this is upheld by the bold and exciting sounds off the record. Whether you’re a die-hard fan, a casual listener or looking for something new; one thing is certain, you will want to join their ever-growing crew after experiencing this voyage.
Rating: 9/10
Words: Lotty Whittingham
Blood On Blood will be released 29th October 2021 via Steamhammer/SPV Records.
Find RUNNING WILD on Facebook.
