Artist: Hammer
Country: Brazil
Label: Poserkiller Records
Format: Digital Demo
Year: 2025
Sprung out of the mind of ‘Kadu Necro Defunto’, Hammer is just one of the many projects of this ever-restless man from Brazil. And while with most of his bands it is already obvious from the band names what you are dealing with, in the case of Hammer it is even more obvious. Especially if you add to that the title of this debut demo: Hammer indeed brings you Ancient Metal like no other.
‘Ancient Metal’ is a treat for old headbangers. And from a reviewer’s point of view perhaps as well, unless you like to drill things down for very in-depth analyses, because quite frankly put: there is no depth. Without wishing to downplay anything, ‘Ancient Metal’ gives you nothing that has anything to do with things like “deeper meaning” or “musical sophistication”. Instead you are getting a near-perfect blend of the earliest recordings of Hellhammer, Venom, Bathory and Sodom. The fact that the musician in question makes little effort to hide his fondness for the vibrant realm of 80’s metal is perhaps most evident in the title track in which he spits out the words “Ancient Metal” in such a way that it does sound very much like “Agent Orange.” Is that a shame? Well, when things are done in the right and convincing way, it only adds to the feeling of a genuine homage to the gods of old.
And that is exactly what’s going on here. But, mind you, ‘Ancient Metal’ is not just a one-dimensional and cheap-sounding copycat. Although there are exactly zero elements that you haven’t heard before, it is the overall sound that seals the deal. A rather raw and even dark “production” (of sorts), brings you back to the first two Bathory albums and with the slightly more atmospheric closing track you’re being treated to a bit of a Manowar vibe as well. On top of it, add a Barbatos-cover track for good measure. A true headbangers delight.
