Sweden’s lycanthro-punk legends return after five years with the release of their 9th album (6th under the name Wolfbrigade), ‘Run with the Hunted’. Wolfbrigade have had a colourful history; starting out as Wolfpack, the band eventually changed monikers to avoid association with a neo-nazi prison gang that were also using the same name. They split back in 2004, due to Micke requiring surgery for his vocal chords and the remaining four members went on to form Today’s Overdose. Three years later, the band reunited then went on a yearlong hiatus from playing live in 2011. A year later they released ‘Damned’.

This newest record promises bigger and better things for Wolfbrigade, alongside some much needed stability. Well known for their abrasive mix of Swedish d-beat and death metal, ‘Run with the Hunted’ uses this as its framework, but it’s clear that there are a wider array of influences at play. Songs such as ‘Kallocain’ take on an almost folk metal vibe in the anthemic opening riffs, while ‘Lucid Monomania’ is packed with two-step inducing grooves. Despite playing with their sound a little, the five-piece are as ferocious as ever and this 27-minute opus packs a hell of a sucker punch with every listen.

Hopefully, a new album will reenergise Wolfbrigade into becoming more active, both on stage and off. It’s obvious that this new material is going to cause a storm when played live, so the more often it’s given an outing, the better. This is a triumphant return to form for the Swedes – here’s hoping they’re here to stay!

(8/10 Angela Davey)

https://www.facebook.com/lycanthropunks

https://wolfbrigadesl.bandcamp.com/album/run-with-the-hunted