It had been some time since Civil War had given any news. Blocked by the pandemic, it had released a single before hibernating. Since then, the band has evolved. Nils Patrick Johansson has been replaced at the microphone by Kelly Sundow Carpenter and Rikard Sunden by Thobbe Englund. The latter, like his predecessor, has been with Sabaton. The four original members of the Swedish band have now left its ranks.
"Invaders" deals with war and its consequences. It evokes the resistance of the Indians, as its cover shows, but also other conflicts and the horrors suffered by the soldiers. The record offers some singles with a strong potential like 'Invaders', 'Carry On', 'Soldiers And King' and 'Battle Of Life'. These tracks offer an irresistible melodic speed, direct and effective with immediate choruses. Carpenter has a powerful and catchy voice and we enjoy the fast and melodic guitar and keyboard soli.
Civil War also features some emotionally charged and researched tracks. 'Andersonville' is chilling with a dramatic feel that reflects the horror of war, full of airy riffs and soli and melancholic vocals. 'Oblivion', 'Dead Man's Glory' and 'Warrior Soul' mix power metal and epic flights with choruses carried by warlike choirs. The Celtic melody of 'Dead Man's Glory' is splendid while 'Warrior Soul' shows a very catchy 70's hard rock side.
Carried by an amazing singer, "Invaders" is a nice record. Civil War takes a step forward and shows a great facility to sign varied melodic speed tracks. It is tempting to think that Sabaton has now a competitor to its measure....