One of the most prominent groups in Christian-based metal and hardcore music is War of Ages. Over their 10-year-plus career, the Facedown Records-signed band have released several recognizable songs such as "All Consuming Fire," "Collapse," and "Fullness."
Leroy Hamp proved himself early as a very talented vocalist, with both soaring vocals and ripping screams. Guitarists Jack Daniels and Steve Brown are excellent technical guitarists. Elisha Mullins brings the heat with the bass. And their most recent member, introduced on 2019's Voidalbum, Kaleb Luebchow is the passionate drummer.
Recently, the metal band dropped their first EP, Rhema; they are currently in the studio working on a new full-length record. I spoke with Leroy and we talked about the EP as well as the upcoming album. Leroy also shared some wisdom for keeping long-term relationships strong, what each song on Rhema means, and more.
War of Ages has been making music for 15 years. What has kept you going?
One of the biggest obstacles has been the lineup changes. And we aren't a band that makes a lot of money touring either-- hardly breaking even or a small profit at best. So, what has kept us together the most is the camaraderie that we built as a band. We're all friends--even with former members. We try to connect like a family. And it's better to end on good terms when members leave; severing the ties is always worse.
Another important factor in building long-lasting bonds is overcoming tough times together. Being refined through the fire and encouraging each other when we're hurting, that's what builds the strongest bonds.
What was different about the songwriting process with an EP as opposed to the usual full-length this time?
The EP was fun to do because it was a change of pace for us. Rather than being in the studio for around two months or so, we were able to get in and out sooner. We did not specifically go into it with an EP in mind, but given the resources and situations we were in, it was more feasible to record an EP. We wanted to walk out with something to give fans.
And every writing process is special because we always improve. The songwriting, instruments, and everyone involved are getting stronger and better. With this EP to bounce from, we are even more excited about the next album.
Can you take us through each song on Rhema?
Sure. "Sleight of Hand" opens with a message about corruption--specifically within the church. People come in and try to convince you that they're someone else--a wolf in sheep's clothing. People aren't always what they seem to be, and we need to be mindful and careful about that.
"Pyrite" is written out of frustration with our current culture. Elisha, our bass player, co-wrote it with me. The word pyrite itself means fool's gold, so something that can easily fool someone who isn't thinking for themselves. This is the current state of our culture: so many people not doing their research and, instead, just believing what they see.
"Unspoken" is driven by human and sex trafficking. The kidnapped and abused are often overlooked and not spoken about enough to make a change.
"No Altars" is my personal favorite. It's about the power of God. The theme is taken from the story of Elijah and the prophets of Baal in 1 Kings chapter 18. Often people are afraid of the trial by fire moments in life, but I lean into them. And encourage you to. That's where the real growth is found.
What's next for War of Ages?
I don't want to spoil it too much, but it's special. We're working on a concept album--the first of its kind for the band. We're going back to our roots in a lot of ways: from old riffs that never got used to vaulted stuff. We're also looking at a very visual delivery of the music, too. All the music is written, we're just working on finishing the lyrics. We're very excited about this one.
How can we be praying for you?
Since we're in the studio still, prayers for clarity and for us to follow where the Lord wants to lead us. Thank you.
Ryan Adams lives with his family in Montana. He has been NRT's Rock Reporter since 2019.
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