Templar is a new band. The Stockholm-based quartet was founded in 2020 and released a first demo called “Black Knight” in 2023. This demo caught the attention of Jawbreaker Records. Templar’s first EP came via the label and now the debut album “Conquering Swords” is set to hit the shelves in February.
Templar is Isak, Gustav, Teddy and Mille. These four guys are passionate about traditional heavy metal, and their first album is blistering old school stuff. The music that hits your ears is unquestionably 70s and 80s-inspired metal: it’s raw, it’s wild and it’s undeniably brilliant. Headbangers will love this band’s rough edges and furious riff power.
The album opens with the dramatic chiming bell intro “Gates of Angmar”, setting the stage for an exhilarating auditory journey. It kicks off with “Witchking”, a thunderous metal track that sets the standard high. “Witchking” is a well-forged start to an album that spreads a lot of the denim & leather spirit. Its galloping rhythm and twin guitar power make it stand out.
Templar shifts gears effortlessly, and it is “Excalibur” that shows the band’s ability to also enter the realms of faster heavy metal. “Exiled in Fire” is fast and furious, and I’m thinking of bands like the earlier Running Wild, Pretty Maids and even Stormwitch.
The band’s ability to vary their sound while sticking to the basic musical direction is clear, as demonstrated by the calmer start of “The Sorceress”. This power ballad is a strategically placed song, showcasing Templar’s musical prowess and seamlessly integrating into the album’s flow.
“Shipwreck” is clearly influenced by the Maiden-spirit, especially when it comes to the guitars. The driving force of “White Wolf” is a strong bassline, followed by the title track. “Conquering Swords” is the final track on this album and a great way to end the album. “White Wolf” is powerful and has a great groove. It is evident that the song has been inspired by Maiden too, which is a rather positive reference.
“Conquering Swords” is a stunning debut album that praises traditional heavy metal. Templar launch a raw musical gem and we can be excited to follow what we will hear from the quartet in the future. Horns up.
Tracklist:
- Gates of Angmar (Intro)
- Witchking
- Excalibur
- Rainbow’s End
- Exiled in Fire
- The Sorceress
- Trident
- Shipwreck
- White Wolf
- Conquering Swords
Label: Jawbreaker Records
Genre: Heavy Metal
Release Date EU: February 27th, 2026
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