About this album

Sound: "A cosmic journey through heavy riffs and mythic narratives wrapped in a psychedelic haze."

Where they were

Warp Riders is The Sword's third studio album, following their breakthrough record, Gods of the Earth, released in 2008. At this point in their career, the band was solidifying their reputation in the heavy metal scene with their unique blend of stoner rock and traditional metal influences.

Why it matters

The album was well-received by critics and marked a shift toward more conceptual songwriting, featuring a narrative-driven theme that resonated with fans of both metal and science fiction. It debuted at number 67 on the Billboard 200, showcasing the band's growing commercial appeal.

Essential tracks

  • "Tres Brujas" — This track merges heavy riffs with an infectious groove, encapsulating the album's energetic essence while highlighting The Sword's signature sound.
  • "The Chronomancer I: Hubris" — A sprawling epic that showcases the band's ability to weave intricate stories within their music while maintaining a powerful and dynamic sound.
  • "(The Night the Sky Cried) Tears of Fire" — With its atmospheric build-up and rich lyrical imagery, this track exemplifies the album's thematic depth and emotional weight.

Release Date

January 1, 2010

Artist Origin

United States

Tracklist

  1. 1 Acheron/Unearthing the Orb 3:43
  2. 2 Tres Brujas 4:09
  3. 3 Arrows in the Dark 4:30
  4. 4 The Chronomancer I: Hubris 7:35
  5. 5 Lawless Lands 5:09
  6. 6 Astraea's Dream 3:23
  7. 7 The Warp Riders 3:57
  8. 8 Night City 3:50
  9. 9 The Chronomancer II: Nemesis 5:49
  10. 10 (The Night the Sky Cried) Tears of Fire 6:11