Drakkar Run With The Wolf

2015, Italian epic power metal mainstay Drakkar has returned with "Run With the Wolf," the follow-up to the 2012 sci-fi themed "When Lightning Strikes." The theme here is back to basics and the band has opted to drop the concept in favor of a bare bones approach, a greater concentration on catchy songwriting, and reaching way back in time to borrow styles from Ireland, whether it come via traditional folk hymns or rock anthems like Thin Lizzy. Allowing songs to stand on their own is a welcome sight and the variety of material only serves to enhance an already stellar discography. "Run with the Wolf" has a simple, but winning formula - fetching riffs, sing-a-long choruses, and great songwriting. Typically great power metal with the welcome diversion of tracks directly influenced by Thin Lizzy and traditional Irish folk.