Rhema: Screaming the best of War of Ages Posted September 16, 2021 By RyanAdams_NRT, Staff Reviewer
What You Need To Know
Rhema is War of Ages' first studio EP of their 16-year career. There are four songs of unashamed Christian metal from one of the champions of Facedown Records.
What It Sounds Like
What War of Ages will be remembered for is their consistency. They not only bring what you expect from an expert metal band but continually improve as well. All the goods are here: guitar solos, catchy riffs, soaring choruses with gritty verses, and faith-filled lyrics.
Spiritual Highlights
War of Ages is one of the most unashamed bands in Christian metal. Their music often calls for divine intervention in our lives but also calls out wickedness.
"Sleight of Hand" is based on Proverbs 6:16-19. "No Altars" reminds us that God is a jealous God who won't settle for any other altars in our lives. "Pyrite" is the heaviest song on the EP, featuring some of the most impressive vocals from singer Leroy Hamp --including some deep growls. The lyrical content matches the song title: condemning a fake faith (pyrite is fool's gold). "Unspoken" brings a more melodic side, musically. It fights for truth and encourages listeners to stand their ground through the fires of life.
Best Song
Each song delivers quality metal music with compelling lyrics. However, "No Altars" stands out above the others--slightly. The ultimate call of the song is an undeniable command of "Fall to your knees/Bow down to the one true king." On top of that, the song could easily place in War of Ages' top five songs of all time. "No Altars" is a crushing song that must not be missed.
War of Ages's EP, Rhema, leaves the listener wanting more. These four songs will empower you in your faith and drive a stake into any wickedness in your heart. Rhema is excellent metalcore.
