Crimson Thunder

Hammerfall's grandiose {heavy metal} posturing only narrowly avoids the type of self-parody exhibited by Manowar (for that matter, the bandmembers' outfits are only slightly less ridiculous than Manowar's swords-and-loincloths look). But fans of the genre probably won't care -- the band performs its soaring {power metal} anthems with spirit, dedication, and heroic execution on Crimson Thunder. This is pure classicism here; Hammerfall devotedly adheres to the genre guidelines of '80s {power metal}, without any attempts toward innovation. Includes an inspired cover version of Chastain's obscure Angel of Mercy and a rather pointless take on Kiss' already overdone Detroit Rock City.'~ Andy Hinds, All Music Guide