Ballads of a Hangman cover

Ballads of a Hangman

Grave Digger · 2009

54 min · 14 tracks · heavy metal

A blend of thunderous riffs and soaring melodies, anchored by theatrical storytelling and heavy metal bravado.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Ballad of a Hangman Start here — This title track encapsulates the album's thematic exploration of justice and mortality, featuring anthemic choruses and rich storytelling that highlights the band's signature sound.
  • →
    Sorrow of the Dead — Combining haunting melodies with poignant lyrics, this track reflects on loss and despair, showcasing Grave Digger's ability to convey emotional weight through heavy instrumentation.
  • →
    Into the War — With its aggressive pace and powerful lyrics about conflict, this song stands out as a rallying cry, illustrating the band's mastery of blending narrative with musical intensity.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • steady mid-tempo melodic flow
  • darkly poetic lyrical themes
  • engaging narrative through tracks
  • reflective moments of introspection

Maybe skip if you

  • dislike consistent pacing
  • prefer upbeat energy

Where this album fits

In the catalog
Late Career Highlight — Marks a resurgence for the band, showcasing strong songwriting after a hiatus.
Themes
dark historical narratives· battlefield sorrow· medieval executions
Career context
Released on January 27, 2009, 'Ballads of a Hangman' marked Grave Digger's return to form after a brief hiatus. This album followed their 2005 release, 'The Grave Digger,' showcasing the band's commitment to classic heavy metal while exploring darker themes and narratives.
Stylistic neighbors
Blind Guardian· Helloween· Iced Earth

Tracklist

  • 1 The Gallows Pole 0:52
  • 2 Ballad of a Hangman Start here 4:46
  • 3 Hell of Disillusion 3:56
  • 4 Sorrow of the Dead 3:26
  • 5 Grave of the Addicted 3:33
  • 6 Lonely the Innocence Dies 5:45
  • 7 Into the War 3:32
  • 8 The Shadow of Your Soul 4:14
  • 9 Funeral for a Fallen Angel 4:32
  • 10 Stormrider 3:16
  • 11 Pray 3:46
  • 12 Overkill 4:33
  • 13 My Blood Will Live Forever 4:01
  • 14 When the Sun Goes Down 3:51

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata