Description

Quite honestly, I do not know a lot about Wardom from Australia. I have read in the booklet that this EP was recorded during three days in October 2009. After so many years of silence, I fear that the band does no longer exist. It seems as if they disappeared as swift as they came. However “When Darkness Reigns” convinces with its compactness. You will not be confronted with insignificant tracks. On the contrary, the EP provides at least one highlight which does not need to fear the competition with comparable songs of better known groups. I am speaking of “I Am The Wolf”. It starts the EP in a conventional yet highly amazing manner. The verse-chorus-verse pattern seems to be immortal. Wardom presents a very coherent opener. It avoids repetition and shines not only with its catchy chorus. Neither too fast nor too slow, the up-tempo track shows its advantages by delivering a main riff that summons you to stand up and bang your head. Generally speaking, songs which come straight to the point are always a good thing. It seems as if Wardom shares this point of view. Apart from that, drummer / lead singer Joel is not focused on a very raw or even inhumane vocal performance. Nonetheless, his throaty voice provides the right amount of harshness. Fine solo parts round the picture off. The remaining songs also reach an attractive quality level. Their traditional composition formula equals that of the opener. While offering an exciting mixture of power, speed and thrash metal, the duo does not forget to create a comparatively dark aura. However, it must be noted that black metal elements only play a minor role. Now have a look at the front cover. It is kept as simple as possible. Irrespective of this, it serves its purpose. Exactly the same applies to the production. It fulfils its function without lacking of roughness and that’s it. While presenting a relatively dragging rhythm and malicious guitar lines, “United Thy Horde” finalises an EP which gives the impression that the guys of Wardom still have some aces up their sleeves. Unfortunately, we do not need to speculate about their potential as long as they do not announce the release of a further album. In any event, the here described output should not be forgotten.

Track list:
1. I Am The Wolf
2. (Ride The) Demon Whores Of Sodom
3. Pharisee
4. Crucifier
5. United Thy Horde