What makes Always Will Be by HammerFall notable?

The album is significant for its contribution to the revival of traditional heavy metal in the early 2000s, receiving positive reviews and charting well across Europe. Its title track has become a staple in HammerFall's live performances, showcasing the band's ability to resonate with fans through uplifting themes and powerful instrumentals. Released on November 24, 2000, 'Always Will Be' was HammerFall's third studio album, following their breakthrough record 'Legacy of Kings.' At this point in their career, the band was solidifying their status within the power metal scene, building upon the momentum from previous successes and cementing their reputation as key players in the genre.

How many songs are on Always Will Be?

Always Will Be has 4 tracks, running approximately 16 minutes.

Always Will Be

HammerFall · 2000

16 min · 4 tracks · heavy metal

Epic power metal anthems blend soaring melodies with relentless guitar riffs, capturing the essence of classic heavy metal.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Always Will Be — This title track encapsulates HammerFall's signature sound, merging powerful vocals with anthemic choruses that inspire a sense of unity and strength.
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The Fallen One — With its fast-paced rhythms and intricate guitar work, this track exemplifies the technical prowess of the band while delivering a narrative steeped in mythos.
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Breaking the Law — A cover of Judas Priest’s classic, this rendition showcases HammerFall's respect for metal legends while adding their own vibrant flair to a well-known anthem.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

45 /100

Lowland

Higher than 5% of albums we've rated

The album showcases strong melodies and guitar work but lacks cohesion due to its short length and mix of styles.

What we noticed

The title track features a soaring chorus that is repeated multiple times, emphasizing its anthem-like quality.
The second track introduces a faster tempo with intricate guitar solos that contrast with the more melodic first track.
The acoustic version of 'Always Will Be' strips down the arrangement to highlight the vocal melody and lyrical content.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 5/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 4/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Where this album fits

In the catalog: Breakthrough — Solidified their reputation post 'Legacy of Kings' with a significant impact on metal revival.
Career context: Released on November 24, 2000, 'Always Will Be' was HammerFall's third studio album, following their breakthrough record 'Legacy of Kings.' At this point in their career, the band was solidifying their status within the power metal scene, building upon the momentum from previous successes and cementing their reputation as key players in the genre.
Stylistic neighbors: Blind Guardian· Helloween· DragonForce