Manowar – Hell on Stage Live – Review

Manowar

Hell on Stage Live (Metal Blade)
by Scott Hefflon

Well-known as the loudest band in the world, Manowar have bucked trends before and since heavy metal died an inglorious death (again). They just did their thing and the fans came. Their dedication to their fans is beyond scrutiny, and the fact that they still draw huge crowds is beyond a doubt. That these old codgers rock with a ferocity most young ‘uns can’t muster is just astounding. The fact that they “buy into” the whole metal lifestyle and jargon without a hint of irony or embarrassment is, well, it’s either encouraging, or it’s the longest delusion on record. Thing is, the fans dig it. Even “cool guys” attending shows “just for laughs” have had to admit that they went to the lost and found after the show to see if someone had turned their ass in. Hell on Stage is a double live album, probably with all sorts of “hits” and fan favorites, and while that’s a freakin’ lot of Manowar, it seems, even after all these years, there’s still a need for more.
(2828 Cochran St. #302 Simi Valley, CA 93065)