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The subject matter on the new album follows Hammerfall protocol with tales of demons, weapons of mass destruction, and souls trapped between worlds. From the first track called "Any means necessary" on, you will notice that every song has an action-packed feel. Songs like "Punish and enslave," "Legion," "Hallowed be my name," and "One of a kind" sound as if they should be in a kickass superhero movie soundtrack. In contrast, what I find most interesting is the way they chose to end the album with a cover of The Knack's "My Sherona." Their cover is done exactly like the original while still remaining true to the patented Hammerfall sound. It's not my favorite song of classic rock fame nor my favorite of Hammerfall's covers, but I am impressed by the diversity in sound they are apable of.
The guitars on this album can be best described as brutal. The leads are absolutely impressive and the rhythm riffs are what you would expect. Long-standing fans will notice that the Hammerfall sound has changed over the years and that the last two albums remain questionable among some fans. However, "No Sacrifice, No Victory" is full of similarities to some of their classic works while propelling the band into an even more dynamic direction than previously thought possible.
Hammerfall's "No Sacrifice, No Victory" is metal at its core. I highly recommend this album to long-standing and new fans alike. This album will prove to be an inspiration to the next generation of heavy metal.
It's only a 99 because Hammerfall never ceases to impress me!
Rating: 99
Reviewed By: Brian Grefrath