Manowar Shares BTS Video From ‘Sign Of The Hammer’ Session

The anticipation amongst heavy metal fans is palpable as MANOWAR, the iconic heavy metal band, gears up for the release of a re-recorded version of their fourth studio album, “Sign of the Hammer.” Originally released in 1984, this album marks a significant milestone in the band's history and has remained a fan favorite for decades. To celebrate its 40th anniversary, MANOWAR has embarked on the ambitious project of revisiting and enhancing this classic work to meet modern recording standards while preserving its original spirit.

In a bid to keep fans engaged and excited, MANOWAR's bassist Joey DeMaio recently shared a behind-the-scenes video from the studio sessions of this re-recording project. The video provides a raw and unfiltered look at the meticulous process involved in recreating the powerful soundscapes that define the band's music. DeMaio's commitment to quality is evident as he reveals he's recorded his bass parts multiple times, driven by the relentless pursuit of perfection. His passion for delivering a product that honors the legacy of the original while offering something new and exciting is a testament to MANOWAR's dedication to their fans, who DeMaio lovingly refers to as the “Greatest Fans In The World.”

“Sign of the Hammer” was initially celebrated for its groundbreaking approach to heavy metal, combining epic themes and powerful lyrics with thrashing guitar riffs and thundering bass lines. The re-recorded version promises to enhance these elements, providing clearer sound quality and improved production techniques that were not available during the original recording. DeMaio speaks with enthusiasm about how this re-recording gives the band the opportunity to keep beloved elements like choruses and lyrics, while refreshing the overall sound. This balance ensures that long-time fans retain their nostalgic connection to the album while experiencing an invigorated rendition.

The re-recording efforts come at a time when MANOWAR is once again in the spotlight, following their first U.S. concert in a decade, which took place in November 2024 at Kings Theatre in Brooklyn, New York. This concert, marking the band's return to their home country, coincided with the commemoration of “Sign of the Hammer's” 40th anniversary, making it an extra special event for fans. It was a rare opportunity to witness the band live, as the concert was their only U.S. appearance due to their rigorous recording and touring schedule.

Amidst these endeavors, MANOWAR continues to adapt and evolve in a rapidly changing music landscape, especially with the rise of technology like artificial intelligence in music production. DeMaio shares his insights into this trend, acknowledging AI as a tool that can democratize music creation by enabling those without traditional skills to explore their musical ideas. However, he remains confident that there will always be a place for deeply creative and talented individuals in the music world, emphasizing that true art, whether created by hand or digitally, will endure.

This adaptation to changing times is also reflected in their recruitment of new musicians, such as guitarist Michael Angelo Batio and drummer Dave Chedrick, to play alongside long-standing members like DeMaio and singer Eric Adams. These changes have reinvigorated the band's dynamic while retaining the powerful essence that has defined MANOWAR since its formation in 1980.

As fans eagerly await the release of the re-recorded “Sign of the Hammer,” it is clear that MANOWAR is at its creative best, not only preserving but reinvigorating their legacy. This project is a reminder of their unwavering dedication to the metal genre and their fans, ensuring that their music continues to strike with the same ferocity and passion as it did forty years ago. With this release, MANOWAR once again reinforces its status as a heavyweight in the world of heavy metal, demonstrating that both their music and their commitment to their audience are as strong as ever.