Powerwolf’s New Album: Wake Up The Wicked

Powerwolf has just unleashed their latest record, Wake Up The Wicked, promising a heavy metal experience that fans have eagerly awaited. In this exclusive conversation with Matthew Greywolf, the band’s guitarist, we explore the album’s evolution, themes, and what fans can expect during their upcoming North American tour with Unleash The Archers.

Evolution of Powerwolf’s Sound

Incorporating Diverse Heavy Metal Styles

Matthew reflects on how Wake Up The Wicked showcases the band’s evolution over two decades. “This album contains all trademarks of 20 years of Powerwolf,” he shares. “We managed to capture the spark of enthusiasm and raw energy from our early classics, while also incorporating the layered approach of our later works, creating 11 compact and dense songs.”

Creative Leaps in Songwriting

As for the creativity behind the album, Matthew notes the varied guitar tunings that enhance the music’s dynamics. “We adapted the songs to Attila‘s preferred vocal range, which brought nice variation in atmosphere and sound,” he explains. The band’s willingness to experiment with elements like children’s choirs and 80s synths adds a fresh layer to their signature style, enriching the listening experience.

Thematic Inspirations

Exploring Peter Stump’s Story

Powerwolf’s thematic focus remains rooted in werewolf lore, with “1589” highlighting the infamous werewolf trial of Peter Stump. Matthew stumbled upon this captivating story years ago and felt it was perfect for a Powerwolf song. “I wrote that song entirely on the piano, and Attila’s narration truly brought it to life,” he says, expressing pride in how it became the album’s first single.

Visual Storytelling in Music Videos

Creating Engaging Visuals

The band’s music videos are renowned for their grandeur and storytelling. Matthew emphasizes that these videos are about more than just performance. “We aim to immerse viewers in the world of the song,” he states, preferring real locations and actors over CGI. The intense dedication to authenticity is evident in their video for “1589,” which captures the raw emotion of the narrative.

Filming on Iconic Sets

Matthew shares anecdotes from the filming of “Sinners of the Seven Seas,” which took place on a replica of Columbus’ ship. He humorously recounts the seasickness experienced by the band, showcasing their commitment to capturing genuine experiences on camera.

North American Tour and Future Plans

Premiering Wake Up The Wicked

As Powerwolf embarks on their first-ever headline tour in North America, they are excited to present Wake Up The Wicked live. “It’s special to premiere the album here, pointing out that this time you were first,” Matthew notes. The tour will feature new visuals and songs, making it a thrilling experience for fans.

Festival Aspirations

While the focus is currently on the North American tour, Matthew hints at future plans for festival appearances. “In 2025, we will make our way across the pond for some open-air performances,” he teases, leaving fans eagerly anticipating their return.

Exploring North America

Iconic Locations and Experiences

Matthew acknowledges the vastness of North America and expresses excitement about seeing new cities and landscapes. “Touring is a special way of traveling, and I consider it one of the greatest benefits of being a touring musician,” he shares, looking forward to the journey ahead.

Conclusion

Powerwolf’s Wake Up The Wicked promises to deliver a blend of heavy metal styles, rich storytelling, and a dynamic live experience. As the band prepares for their North American tour, fans can look forward to a unique and thrilling performance that highlights the evolution of Powerwolf while staying true to their roots.

FAQs

When was Wake Up The Wicked released?

The album was released on the same day as this interview, making it available for fans to enjoy.

What themes does the album explore?

The album incorporates themes of werewolf lore, with a specific focus on the story of Peter Stump in the track “1589.”

Will Powerwolf tour in Europe after the North American tour?

Yes, following the North American tour, Powerwolf has plans for a European leg of the tour.

What can fans expect from the music videos?

Fans can expect intense visuals that tell a story, with real locations and actors, avoiding CGI and green screens for an authentic experience.