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By <\/strong>now, Powerwolf<\/a> <\/strong>fans know exactly<\/em> what to expect with each new LP (another collection of familiar tracks fueled by mythical\/spiritual songwriting, orchestral embellishments, fierce arrangements, and uber-manly vocals). That’s both a blessing and a curse since it means that the German ensemble’s work is as dependable as it is predictable, with them routinely adding new material to their tried-and-true power metal formula without doing much to shake things up. \u00a0<\/p>\n Wake Up the Wicked<\/em>\u2014which follows 2023’s Interludium<\/a><\/em>\u2014is no exception. In fact, it even clocks in at almost the exact same length and contains almost the exact same number of compositions. Once again produced by Joost van den Broek <\/strong>(Ayreon<\/a><\/strong>, Blind Guardian<\/a><\/strong>, Epica<\/a><\/strong>), it’s as mighty, complex, and sleek as just about everything else they’ve done since forming in 2004. Consequently, whatever little innovation exists is rendered virtually indiscernible because it’s buried beneath 95% of the same schtick Powerwolf <\/strong>have been doing since they started.<\/p>\n \n