Running Wild - Resilient (2013) (Japan IUCP-16181)

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Running Wild - Resilient (2013) (Japan IUCP-16181)

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Rolf has offered us yet another example of his extremely reliable, consistent ability to write catchy traditional metal/rock songs complete with his own brand of unmistakable and catcy riffs, hooks, and choruses. Resilient offers nothing "new" to the seasoned fan per se, and yet we are able to once again restore our confidence in the man who's delivered decades of worthy and classic albums throughout his long career. Running Wild's earnest sound has always provided a unique inspiration to metal fans, and "Resilient" reinforces my belief that Rolf is among the most sincere and consistent metal songwriters in the history of the genre. A possible complaint with this album could be that the tempo hasn't picked up much since The Rivalry. Speed metal isn't what you'll find here, but neither will you find the lack of energy and "hard rock" flavor of Rolf's post-2000 catalog. Instead, the listener will immediately take notice of the true metal vibes throughout the record. And while there is certainly an arena-rock element to Rolf's songwriting, "Resilient" seemlessly incorporates the catchiness and bombastic qualities of that aesthetic without compromising the hard edge that Running Wild's fans expect. Given the "studio project" status that Running Wild has maintained for the past decade or so, it's somewhat disappointing to note that these songs can't possibly be backed by a highly-anticipated tour since the two core members mostly rely on hired hands for festival gigs and other large venues. On the other hand, this record seems to suggest a revitalized band, a renewal of Rolf's natural role in the metal community, and a strong feeling that the "Final Jolly Roger" came too soon to be taken seriously. Retirement should not be considered at this point, because this record's strength clearly indicates that Rolf and company are still able to deliver the goods with style and confidence. "Shadowmaker" 's shortcomings as an album will seem less significant now that "Resilient" has emerged - a stronger, truer reflection of Rolf's metal vision that even casual fans will recognize immediately.

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