Victorius – Space Ninjas from Hell (Napalm)
Friday, 10th January 2020
Easily the most blatant case of ‘you know exactly what you are getting into’ so far in 2020, no one is going to walk into Victorius’ latest release and scratch their heads at the absurdity of it all. Instead, the band wears it like a badge of honor, and in doing so, further helps to transmit the sheer fun involved. Completely jumping into the ‘silly’ fold after the gateway EP that was Dinosaur Warfare – Legend of the Power Saurus, Victorius’ fifth release is nothing short of bombastic, over-the-top, and a humorously engaging good time.
Being of the belief that metal could use some chuckles and fun from time to time, Victorius really hits the mark here. Ninjas, dinosaurs, outer space, and more all play a part here and it’s so goofy and over the top that you can’t help but be sucked into the spectacle of it all. But the band is more than just some laughs, and the music really is what takes Victorius to the next level. Like the best bands that can convey humor with their music, they have the serious chops to match their amusing wits. The music sticks to the upbeat and bouncy, painting a wild picture for the lyrics to flourish in. It’s triumphant and full of those catchy Dragonforce-isms – totally bombastic but well-written so that you feel no guilt shaking a leg and raising your fist in the arm. “Super Sonic Samurai” is an excellent example of this, with charging and intricate riffs lead you into a thrilling chorus (with clear samurai flavors) that will stick in your head for days. Elsewhere, “Wasabi Warmachine” shows what they can do with some more explosive and epic riffs, as the thrashy tempos playfully draw you in with some relentless yet catchy guitarwork and “Cosmic Space Commando Base” oozes the triumphant spirit of the ‘80s in the most fun way imaginable.
For those who can handle a mixture of ‘80s flair, intricate yet catchy guitarwork, and a whole lotta fun, Space Ninjas from Hell is just what you’ve been looking for. Victorius embrace the sillier side of power metal with both hands and end up becoming winners by keeping it genuine and interesting. A release that you can have a ton of fun with if you are willing to dive down the rabbit hole with the band.
