GODS OF WAR is MANOWAR's first entry in a cycle of concept albums; each a tribute to a different war god. This album honors Odin — almighty father of the Norse gods — and details the history and exploits of this storied character. His power and wisdom were unmatched among the gods and he is paid tribute with human sacrifice on the battlefield.

GODS OF WAR brings out the greatest of MANOWAR’s musical attributes by utilizing both epic song structures and dramatic narratives.

The album opens with full 6 minutes grand title song "Overture ton the Hymn OF the immortal Warriors" packed with full symphonic metal volume. With outstanding orchestral arrangement, the song nicely sets the tone for the rest of the album. "The Ascension” continues to set the mood of the album with well composed choirs. In my opinion, this song can definitely be seen as an intro of the album. After all introductory tracks, the album heats up with blasting double basstrack "King of Kings" filled with a powerful and tasty high-speed Manowar-banger. Unfortunately, the track presents too brief of guitar solo. Manowar keeps up the pace with the following track “Army OF the DEAD, part I" featuring over four minutes energy-loaded True Metal. The album continues the journey with storyteller track “Sleipnir” opening with wind noise and mid-tempo tunes. “Loki God OF Fire” is one of the highlights in this album. The song captures audience with mid speed headbang Manowar style. Then the album tunes down with the glorious true metal ballad titled "Blood Brother", which is about friendship. Within the right mood, this song can bring a tear or too to your eyes. The next two songs "Overture To Odin" "The Blood Of Odin", which should not be confused with the same titled song on the EP!, feature calm orchestra sounds reminding me of Richard Wagner. Then Manowar showcase their music with another true metal song "The Sons Of Odin" taking audience up and down between the mountain of frenzy and quiet tunes. "Glory Majesty Unity" takes us on the fate of a dying army, but Odin was not ready yet for Valhalla. The song can easily be called "The Warriors Prayer – Part 2"! Simply fantastic that after twenty years this classic song gets a continuance after all! The band then takes us through the full seven minutes true metal featuring hammer, blood, dead, fight, and glory story of the epic song "Gods Of War". Then the album calms down with the organ and choir singing break (didn't we have that already?) with the song "Army Of The Dead, Part II". “Odin” is absolutely another showcase of the album. Manowar still one of the metal bands who can deliver true power ballad. The band finishes their album with grand finale "Hymn Of The Immortal Warriors" giving audience the victorious sensation from the Odin Saga. The bonus track "Die For Metal" is another great track with solid guitar riffs and sounds. Hearing to this track is like listen to the soundtrack when the Closing credits coming up at the end of the movie.

Besides the normal Jewel Case version, GODS OF WAR will also be released as this limited edition in an embossed metal slipcase containing a high grade mediabook bound in leather. Furthermore, this limited edition will feature a bonus DVD with unreleased material about the making of this album and some special behind-the-scenes footage.

Track of "Gods of War"

Overall

Positive: This is one of the Manowar masterpiece. Totally recommended for not only all Manowar fans, but for every other dedicated heavy metal fans as well. The album packs with high quality musical expertise and a playing time of 73 minutes. "Gods Of War" is truly worth its price. Tip: Listen to this album at least once with headphones; you will be amazed!

Negative: There is nothing much to say negatively about this Manowar album.