Warrel Dane - Praises to the War Machine (Century Media Records) - Back
“When We Pray” is an amazing track from an absolutely killer album! There is no doubt that Nevermore fans will be more than impressed with Warrel's solo efforts which also features guest appearances by the likes of Jeff Loomis and James Murphy. The album overall is not as heavy as what many would expect from Nevermore but you will not be disappointed all the same! The album features some killer tracks such as “Brother,” “August,” “The Day The Rats Went To War” and “Messenger.” The new album also features to amazing covers tunes “Lucretia my Reflection” (The Sisters of Mercy) and “Patterns” (Paul Simon) which just enhances the magic that is “Praises to the War Machine.” Warrel's new album is out now via Century Media. You can grab a copy of this amazing album where all kick ass CD's are sold!

Rating: 90

Reviewed By: Cameron Edney - http://www.myspace.com/insideout666ints
Second Review:
Nevermore vocalist Warrel Dane forages out on his own with a solid solo effort in “Praises to the War Machine.” Admittedly, Warrel is a huge favorite of mine, and I was excited to hear this album, a collaboration with former Soilwork guitarist Peter Wichers, and current Soilwork drummer, Matt Wicklund. What we get is a simpler, perhaps more straightforward record than one from Nevermore, replacing the speed/thrash elements of that band with slower paced, more melodic tracks. What I really appreciate here is how Warrel really carries this record. Honestly, even the tracks with arrangements that might sound a little like leftover Soilwork riffs still work well due to his command as a vocalist.

Standout tracks include opener “When We Pray”, featuring some classic Warrel anti-religion sentiments (“…nothing ever changes when we pray”), the sweeping and melodic “Messenger” (featuring Nevermore pal Jeff Loomis), the dark and melancholy “August”, “The Day the Rats Went War” (featuring where-the-hell-has-he-been James Murphy), and the excellent closer “Equlibrium”. Also of note are the choice of cover tracks, Sisters of Mercy’s “Lucretia My Reflection” and Paul Simon’s “Patterns”, the second Paul Simon related song I’ve heard Warrel cover, after Nevermore’s “The Sound of Silence”. I actually went back and checked out the original version of “Patterns” – wow, what a haunting tune – well chosen Mr. Dane.

Upon repeats listens, this album seems to get better and better, which is really a tribute to Warrel and company’s achievement in crafting a quality record that stands on its own and should not be viewed as just another “side project”. This is a very competent and thoughtful album, and should please metal fans across the board.

Rating: 85

Reviewed By: Bova