'Reign Forever World' is typical EP when thinking of its contents, as there's new songs, covers and live versions. This lasts for over 32 minutes and was actually promoted with a lot of touring by the band, so this was important release anyways.

Three first songs are unique for this release. The title song presented varying paces after fast 'Litany' album (2000), and I must say this more varying Vader is my thing. 'Frozen Paths' is good quickie in vein of 'Litany'. 'Privilege of the Gods' is a masterpiece, with extremely fluent songwriting which gets bigger towards the ending. Fluent songwriting has always been the band's strong point and another one is their unique style, which they stick to. But Vader do not have to change too much or discover new things, in my opinion. They have mastered their style and when the music is this strong, I'm happy to hear it! 'Red Dunes' and 'Lord of the Desert' are taken from the Japanese version of 'Litany'. Acid synth-scapes of the former work as intro to fast song with some Mid-Eastern melodies, but the song is just too samey to other 'Litany' material. Live tracks are okay, but feel patching amongst this material. Destruction's 'Total Desaster' is one of the best cover version I've heard, ever. Vader have managed to inject a lot of theirs into the song and they add a cool guitar solo, too, plus a tad more speed! Judas Priest cover 'Rapid Fire' is maybe too heavy metal for Vader, as the band sound a bit bored playing it. Mayhem's 'Freezing Moon' is eerie and very well done, Peter showing his "dead", not death vocals skills.

Every track has similar sound, even the live versions. Drums are louder than usually, especially pounding kick drum. Fantastic riffs, mad solos including some great melodies and bass giving thick backbone to everything. The Vader sound, organic beast. Peter's vocals are very good and unique, because one can understand what he growls with his bear voice. Booklet includes short explanations of Vader's lyrics, and even the covers' lyrics are all printed.

'Reign Forever World' is one of the best mini albums put out in the 21st century. Enough new material and some great cover versions make this a quality release.

Rating: 8- (out of 10) ratings explained

Reviewed by Lane
02/26/2005 13:06