Conquering Metalcore Posted October 12, 2023 By RyanAdams_NRT, Staff Reviewer
What You Need To Know Dominion is War of Ages' 10th studio record and was released in partnership with Facedown Records like most of their music to date. They are a long-time staple in the Christian metal scene and continue to craft excellent Christ-centered metal. Dominion is a concept album, one of the firsts for the band to create - focusing on themes found in Revelation.
What It Sounds Like
War of Ages continues to center their music on a perfect balance of hardcore influenced metal music, leaning more into the hardcore style than metal, usually. From crushing breakdowns, energizing guitar solos, and soaring vocals, this record has all the foundations of a great metalcore record and hits all the right notes. Every fan of modern metalcore will find a song to love here.
Spiritual Highlights
One of my favorite aspects about War of Ages is their relentless passion for the Gospel. All their records are filled to the brim with mature and unabashed influence from the Bible. Some songs are more focused on relational struggles or mental battles, but you will never leave a record with hearing praise to God. Dominion is no different even focusing on judgement and damnation from the book of Revelation - which makes for a much more adamant songwriting perspective.
Best Song Dominion is easily one of the best records in the War of Ages discography. From the soaring, gang vocals in the songs' choruses, to the blistering screams and growls, and all the filthy instrumentation. I think one of the best songs to exemplify the album's themes, showcase the band's incredible musicianship, and hit hard with the vocal style is "War."
As expected, it highlights the war that comes with Jesus' return, but with a somber proclamation that "there is nowhere to hide/no place to hide from truth" and praising His power with "war is His banner of conquest/destroying all who stand in His way!"
Bottom Line Dominion is proof that bands can continually grow and evolve over time while they still create music that is fresh and invigorating. There are few bands that are as bold in their faith as War of Ages and can still make the songs sound mature and relatable. The praise found in the songs' lyrics easily encourage Christians and hopefully can turn the hearts of unbelievers with the unmatched talent found in the band members. In memory of their late drummer Kaleb Luebchow, this record will be a testament to his legacy and musicianship. After 10 albums and 20 years, War of Ages is still one of the best metalcore bands on the scene today.
