When I start listening to WARFARER it is no surprise that they are from Finland. Tampere to be precise. The reason it is not a surprise is because the first band that comes to mind when “A Tale Beyond The Pale” starts blowing through my headphones is early CHILDREN OF BODOM. This has the same kind of feel. What is unexpected though that although WARFARER have been around for more than 11 years (the band was founded in 2013), this is actually their full-length debut album. Up and until now they had only one EP to their name, which is “Under The Frozen Star” from 2017. I would have thought that with the loss of COB there would be a demand for a proper replacement, and in my eyes and ears WARFARER could possibly qualify for that moniker.

Of course you hear other influences as well, one of them being “Whoracle” era IN FLAMES. But, more apparent than that one, there are the Symphonic Power Metal parts that pop up willy nilly. Do they work? I really don’t know, but I do know that they add to the versatility and diversity in the music that is being played. And yes, sometimes it is fitting, while at other times it is just a bit too much for my liking. But the whole feel of “A Tale Beyond The Pale” is one of great Melodic Death Metal with Thrash and Power Metal parts, that will have you raising your head and taking extra notice from time to time. I have to say that I prefer it when WARFARER going at full speed, like in “Brotherslayer”, as I feel that is when they sound the most convincing, or if you will, the strongest.

Is the rest just on “A Tale Beyond The Pale” as impressive as that one? Some are, others aren’t, but as usual that is a personal opinion, and can vary from day to day or even every time you listen. One time the heaviest parts will be most impressive, other times the quality of the songs themselves will have that advantage. And yes, on any given day the more Melodic parts might be what brings you joy. With all that brought to you by WARFARER, I feel it is safe to say that in order to accomplish the fact whether “A Tale Beyond The Pale” is an album for you, you really should take time to listen to it. I know what I like about this album. Now it’s time for you to decide.