With War Machine, Impellitteri, led by legendary shred guitarist Chris Impellitteri, revisits their signature style of heavy metal infused with neoclassical shredding and power metal grandeur. Known for over 35 years for relentless technical mastery, Chris, alongside longtime vocalist Rob Rock, presents an 11-track album that is pure adrenaline, featuring fast-paced guitar riffs, thunderous drumming, and soaring vocals.

The lineup on War Machine includes some seasoned metal talent. Alongside Chris Impellitteri and Rob Rock, bassist James Pulli continues his decades-long tenure, and this time, drummer Paul Bostaph (formerly of Slayer, Testament, and Forbidden) joins to add a heavier, thrash-inspired edge. Together, they create a rhythmically tight and driving force, giving each track a powerful, cohesive punch.

Thematically, War Machine delves into classic heavy metal territory—tales of A.I. threats, apocalyptic visions, and pure metal anthems. Tracks like “Superkingdom” explore AI takeover with darkly humorous overtones, while “Hell on Earth” and “Light It Up” lean into classic 80s influences, bringing out Van Halen-like party vibes mixed with the post-Painkillerenergy of Judas Priest. Rock’s vocals, though not as youthful as they once were, are fierce and committed, perfectly matching the album’s campy, energetic style.

Musically, War Machine is an exercise in high-velocity guitar work, with Impellitteri pulling out his best neoclassical licks and blistering solos. “What Lies Beneath” and “Out of Mind (Heavy Metal)” showcase his prowess, with complex fingerwork that balances both melody and sheer speed, while Bostaph’s double-kick drumming adds heft and intensity, especially on the title track and the epic closer, “Just Another Day.” This balance of virtuosic solos with tightly structured songwriting keeps the album dynamic without overindulging in technical showmanship.

As with previous albums, War Machine doesn’t reinvent the genre but stays true to Impellitteri’s roots, delivering a solid heavy metal experience with an 80s spirit. Whether you’re a long-time fan of Chris’s neoclassical style or just looking for a technically proficient, power-driven metal album, War Machine will satisfy your cravings for high-energy riffs and powerful melodies.

In short, Impellitteri has crafted an album that is unapologetically heavy, loaded with technical skill, and steeped in classic metal influences—a must-listen for fans of shred and heavy metal alike.

8,5/10

Album: War Machine

Band: Impellitteri

Label: Frontiers Music

Distribution: Frontiers Music

Release date: November 2024

TRACKLIST:


1 War Machine
2 Out Of My Mind (Heavy Metal)
3 Superkingdom
4 Wrathchild
5 What Lies Beneath
6 Hell On Earth

7 Power Grab
8 Beware The Hunter
9 Light It Up
10 Gone Insane
11 Just Another Day

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