Wanton Attack - Self Titled CD (Jewel Case, 2021, No Remorse Records)

The self-titled full-length debut album from the Swedish New Wave Of Traditional Heavy Metal (NWOTHM) band Wanton Attack.

Emerging from Norrköping, Sweden, Wanton Attack arrive with a dark and commanding debut that blends traditional heavy metal power with occult atmosphere and cinematic tension. Formed in 2019 by multi-instrumentalists Micael Zetterberg and Niklas Holm, the band’s self-titled album introduces a distinctive style they describe as “Arcane Metal” - a sound rooted in classic heavy metal while infused with eerie melody, obscure atmosphere, and haunting storytelling.

Drawing inspiration from early Mercyful Fate, Ostrogoth, and even the dark cinematic mood of filmmaker and composer John Carpenter, Wanton Attack craft an album that feels simultaneously nostalgic and unique. Rather than relying purely on retro aesthetics, the band focus on memorable songwriting, sinister atmosphere, and dynamic heavy metal composition that captures the spirit of the underground while maintaining strong replay value.

The album combines sharp riffing, occult-tinged melodies, powerful vocal performances, and shadowy ambience into a cohesive listening experience that recalls the darker side of early European heavy metal. There is a strong sense of mystique throughout the record, balanced by energetic performances and classic metal momentum that appeal equally to traditional metal purists and collectors of obscure underground heavy metal.

What makes Wanton Attack especially compelling is the band’s commitment to atmosphere and identity. The album channels the raw authenticity of early 1980s heavy metal while avoiding imitation, instead building a distinctive sound that merges arcane themes, cinematic tension, and memorable hooks with organic heavy metal aggression.

Recorded by Kim Ekvall Lattik, mixed by Magnus Johnson, and mastered by renowned engineer Patrick W. Engel at Temple Of Disharmony, the album benefits from a warm yet powerful production style that enhances both the vintage heavy metal spirit and the darker atmospheric elements embedded throughout the release.

Presented in CD jewel case format, Wanton Attack is an essential release for fans of occult heavy metal, underground traditional metal, and obscure European heavy metal with genuine atmosphere, authenticity, and classic metal spirit.

Recommended if you like: Mercyful Fate, King Diamond, Demon Bitch, Potrait, In Solitude, Heavy Load, Cirith Ungol, Ostrogoth

Artist: Wanton Attack
Title: Wanton Attack
Label: No Remorse Records
Catalogue Number: NRR74826
UPC: 0723803978108
Release Year: 2021
Duration: Album
Format: CD 
Packaging Type: Jewel Case
Condition: New & factory sealed

Tracklist:

1. Demonic Forces Prevail
2. Wanton Attack
3. The Beast Will Be Tamed
4. His Master's Voice
5. Fatal Technology
6. Crystal Ball
7. Arrogant Humanity