What makes Renegade by HammerFall notable?

'Renegade' was notable for its commercial success, reaching significant chart positions across Europe and reinforcing HammerFall's role in the revival of traditional heavy metal. The title track became an anthem for fans and received extensive airplay, further establishing the band’s legacy within the power metal community. Released on August 21, 2000, 'Renegade' marked HammerFall's fourth studio album during a period of increasing popularity in the power metal scene. Following their breakthrough with 'Glory to the Brave' in 1997, this album solidified their sound and helped establish them as prominent figures in the genre.

How many songs are on Renegade?

Renegade has 3 tracks, running approximately 12 minutes.

Renegade

HammerFall · 2000

12 min · 3 tracks · heavy metal

A vibrant blend of soaring vocals and thunderous guitar riffs that captures the spirit of classic heavy metal.

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Top tracks — play these first

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Renegade — The title track features a powerful chorus and energetic instrumentation that encapsulates the band's signature style and themes of rebellion.
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Run With the Devil — This track showcases a driving rhythm and engaging melodies, embodying the classic elements of heavy metal while appealing to modern sensibilities.
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Head Over Heels — With its anthemic quality and memorable hooks, it highlights HammerFall's ability to combine melodic elements with their heavier sound, making it a fan favorite.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

59 /100

Treeline

Higher than 57% of albums we've rated

Renegade showcases strong songwriting and production typical of early 2000s power metal, appealing to genre fans.

What we noticed

The album opens with a fast-paced track that features dual guitar harmonies and anthemic choruses, setting a high-energy tone.
Several tracks incorporate tempo changes, alternating between aggressive riffs and melodic sections, which creates dynamic contrasts.
The lyrics across the album consistently focus on themes of heroism and perseverance, often delivered with soaring vocal lines.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 8/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 6/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 7/10

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 — 'Renegade' solidified HammerFall's reputation in the power metal scene post 'Glory to the Brave.'
Career context: Released on August 21, 2000, 'Renegade' marked HammerFall's fourth studio album during a period of increasing popularity in the power metal scene. Following their breakthrough with 'Glory to the Brave' in 1997, this album solidified their sound and helped establish them as prominent figures in the genre.
Stylistic neighbors: Blind Guardian· Helloween· DragonForce