When a heavy metal band releases their debut album and it receives rave reviews, as in the case of ROZARIO and "To The Gods We Swear" it definitely adds pressure on the band to keep the momentum going. So the game plan is simple, enter the studio with the same amazing producer Trond Holter (JORN, WIG WAM), add a slight tweak with new young guitarist Taran Lister and bring forward the same intensity, conviction and unabated energy that's become the band's trademark. Make a statement by packing the new album with 12 hard rocking, powerful tracks, give it a cool title "Northern Crusaders" (set for release on February 20, 2026 on Pride & Joy Music) and finally tease with two single/video releases. I reviewed the first single "Fire & Ice" for METAL TEMPLE (December 10) and now we delve into the latest single "We Are One".  

 The song opens with a moody, shadowy hush, built on a brooding melodic melody that feels almost cinematic in its toned down ambience as the tenson rises with the early bone chilling riffs, the kind that pulls you in slowly, letting the darkness engulf the listener. As the track unfolds, that tension bursts into submission as the infectious and fist pumping chorus of "We Are One" lock in and what began as a dark, melodic journey erupts into a full-blown metal proclamation. The tightness of the band are on full display with the thunderous backbeat and strong rhythm section delivering with clarity and intensity. The guitar work is precise, never feeling forced and the solo is pure fire and brimstone electrifying like a storm finally breaking after a long, heavy sky.

"We Are One" delivers a vastly different vibe than the debut single "Fire & Ice," signaling that the upcoming album won't be a one-dimensional release. Instead, it hints at a record packed with surprises, shifting moods, and enough unpredictability to keep metal fans fully locked in from start to finish.