#newwaveoftraditionalheavymetal — Public Fediverse posts

Helvetets Port: Tomas Ericson on inspiration vs influence

The Nwothm

I am sometimes asked the question of what has inspired or influenced Helvetets Port’s music. I am sure these terms are interchangeable to some, but to me the question has made my brain rev up to a higher degree than I expected. Perhaps because I have felt there is a difference that I should take more seriously in order to answer the question. In this article I would like to make a distinction between inspiration and influence: the former is something that can act as a “muse”, or something which you strive for, even if it is not necessarily heard in your music. Whereas influence is something that could be more clearly heard, or an “inspiration that has broken through” if you will. Let us start with five sources of inspiration and why it stays on that side of the fence:

Thor (CAN) – Unchained (1983) and Only the Strong (1985)

This is peak efficiency in songwriting. The songs are straightforward and catchy without being cheerful or predictable. I often see my songs getting out of hand when it comes to complexity and abstruseness at the writing stage, and then I try to think “more Thor”. No one could do it quite like them though. They could get seriously epic and heavy with the same simplicity in songs like When Gods Collide and Ride of the Chariots, and it is genius level.

Killen (USA) – Restless is the Witch (1989)

This is perhaps not so much a direct musical inspiration, rather a “heavy metal-philosophical” one. On this cassette, particularly on the two songs that are unique for this release – Birth of a King and The Resurrection/Vampire – Killen demonstrate the ways in which you can warp heavy metal to its limits while still being impervious of accusations of deviating from trueness. And, check out the video of “Scream in the Night” on Youtube for some serious overall coolness inspiration. Their full-length album from 1987 is also a major lesson in giving zero fucks.

Witch Cross (DEN) – Fit for Fight (1984)

In heavy metal there are two overarching themes with their respective moods, from which all sub-themes stem. The old and the new (well, 80s new). The old is the ancient or medieval; fantasy, the epic stuff. The new is the (80s) contemporary, nightlife, street level stuff. And although Witch Cross can excel in the former (especially on some older demo stuff) it is in the “new” category where they truly set the ultimate mood. The first minute of “Light of a Torch” and “Face of a Clown” is like the equivalent of 100 Stranger Things first seasons. It’s all you need if you want to get in the mood to make neon light music – but never to be equalled.

Tyrant (Gloucester, UK) and Tyrant (Mansfield, UK)

For two bands with the same name from the same country to be inseparable regarding the same kind of inspiration is a cosmic fluke. But there they stand, as the two most important bastions of the medieval sub-theme of the “old” category. One of them only having recorded two songs. Listen to a few Tyrant songs and you have bathed yourself in enough medieval melancholy to subtract a few hundred years from the atmosphere of the music you write next. Highlights if I have to choose: “Day of the Knight” and “Shadows of the Night”.

Overkill (Winnenden, GER) – Demo (1984)

It is difficult to be directly musically influenced by these Germans, perhaps because all the songs are so different from each other, but each superb in their own way. Heavy Metal Forces, the catchy anthem; The Iron Sword, the medieval epic song and Killers in the Dawn, a number that surpasses the meanness of all thrash metal while being classic heavy metal. They are a major inspiration when it comes to varying your songs without losing the core, and also to try and change your vocal colour depending on the song.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IBxKivzih7I

And here are five sources of influence and it turns out to be a somewhat patriotic list:

Gotham City (SWE)

The elephant in the room, the influence of all influences! Notwithstanding the music, the sharp-sighted can probably tell that our logo and the artwork to our first single are heavily influenced by Gotham City. They are the main reason I got into obscure heavy metal and the main influence to start Helvetets Port. Their music has the perfect blend of coolness, quirkiness and regalness. Right now I am working on a song which is especially influenced by them, called “We Played Heavy Metal”.

Heavy Load (SWE)

There is always a bit, small or big, of Heavy Load and especially Ragne Wahlquist in one’s guitar playing, singing and songwriting. It is as though their work is the template for heavy metal. When you sit down with a guitar, there is always this little quick subconscious process in your head of “what is guitar playing all about?” in order to get your bearings as to what you are about to do with that strange object in your lap. And that subconscious backdrop is made by Heavy Load. The melancholy and earnestness, the E minor riffs that can always lead to greatness.

Kim Sixx (DEN) – Demo 1984

Kim Sixx in my opinion have the most commendable mix of guitar playing “tools” out of any band. There is perfect division of riffs, rhythm, licks, solos and melodies. Of course not only the division but the way it is played. This, and the fact that they might be the most true template of a classic heavy metal band imaginable, is a huge influence and inspiration. On a song like “Ruled with an Iron Hand”, I tried to summon the guitar practices of Kim Sixx.

Rising (SWE) – The Show is Over (song from the “Just One Bite …” demo 1984)

Now I am going to talk about a couple of songs that have distinct parts that have left an everlasting impression and which I feel I can never really fully explore, an itch that never goes away. For this Rising song it is about the very end, where it is almost like they are starting a new, awesome song and then it stops. It is the ultimate risky “kill your idols” technique in songwriting, creating a yearning that you as a songwriter want to almost fulfill but not quite. This I tried to recreate in the ending of “Cry of the Night”.

Zone Zero (SWE) – Evil Dream (B side from the “Heavy Metal” 7″ 1982)

With the Zone Zero song it is a similar deal in changing parts, but a more abrupt change and preferably more in the middle of the song. The time I first heard the tempo change in Evil Dream might be the most significant listening experience in my life and I get goosebumps just thinking about it. It shows that if you have written a cool part you can just brute force it into whatever place your heart feels like. Having it become as mind-blowing as in Evil Dream is a different matter though. Some places where I have attempted it is for example in “The Invincible” when the lone riff starts, and “Stan Brinner” when the final kind of chorus starts, and many more. Basically, whenever there is a part change that is not very “natural”, the spirit of Evil Dream looms over it.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FPgrKjyJrqM

Conclusion by TheNwothm

For Tomas Ericson, Helvetes Port is shaped by inspiration that sparks imagination and influence that leaves its mark in sound. Together they create a vision that balances tradition with individuality, keeping the old spirit of heavy metal alive in a unique way.

How do you see it? Does heavy metal thrive more on unseen muses or on the influences we can clearly hear? Let us know!

Photo Credit: Sabrina (Visual_Evidence) 

#heavyMetal #helvetetsPort #inspirationVsInfluence #newWaveOfTraditionalHeavyMetal #nwothm #thenwothm #thenwothmCom #tomasEricson #tradMetal #traditionalHeavyMetal

Write for us

We’re expanding the team at TheNwothm.com and we’re still looking for new contributors to help us grow! If you think you’ve got what it takes, check out the details below and send in your application.

About us TheNwothm.com is your ultimate destination for everything related to the New Wave of Traditional Heavy Metal. From the latest news and reviews to exclusive interviews and beyond, we celebrate and elevate this vibrant genre. The site was founded in 2023 with one clear goal: to shine a spotlight on NWOTHM bands from every corner of the globe.

Why join us? This site wouldn’t be what it is today without our dedicated team of writers, who live and breathe NWOTHM. We’re small but committed, united by a shared love for the genre and a drive to spread the word. Now we’re looking for voluntary contributors who share that passion. Join us in amplifying the voices of incredible bands and be part of a growing community of like-minded enthusiasts.

Benefits of writing for TheNwothm 🏆

• Get your writing in front of thousands of metal fans
• Review new music before release
• Opportunities to interview bands when available
• Press passes to shows (based on input and availability)

Must haves ❤️

• Ability to write in English
• Basic understanding of WordPress
• Passion for NWOTHM and related genres

What will help your application ✅

• Willingness to contribute weekly
• Ability to turn pieces around quickly
• Initiative to source news and features
• Clear communication via Slack
• Genuine passion for writing and heavy metal

What we are not looking for ❌

• Poor or irregular communication
• Missed deadlines or rushed, low-effort pieces
• Writers already covering the same niche elsewhere

If you have any questions about contributing, don’t hesitate to get in touch—we’ll be happy to answer.

#heavyMetal #joinTheTeam #newWaveOfTraditionalHeavyMetal #nwothm #openToEveryone #thenwothm #writeForThenwothm #writeForUs

Write for TheNwothm!

We are currently looking to expand the team so if you think you have what it takes check out the info below and send in your application!

TheNwothm.com is your ultimate destination for everything related to the New Wave of Traditional Heavy Metal. From the latest news and reviews to exclusive interviews and beyond, we’re here to celebrate and elevate this vibrant genre. I’m Rob, and I founded the site at the beginning of 2023 with one clear goal in mind: to shine a spotlight on NWOTHM bands from every corner of the globe!

This site wouldn’t be what it is today without our dedicated and passionate team of writers, who live and breathe NWOTHM. We’re a small but incredibly committed group, united by a shared love for this genre and a deep drive to spread the word. That’s why we’re now looking for voluntary contributors who are just as passionate about NWOTHM as we are. Join us in helping to amplify the voices of these incredible bands and take part in a growing community of like-minded enthusiasts!

If you have any questions about contributing to the site please do not hesitate to get in touch as I am happy to answer any questions you may have!

🏆Benefits of writing for TheNwothm:

• Get your writing in front of thousands of metal fans!
• Review new music before it is released.
• Opportunity to interview bands when available.
• Press passes to shows (depends on your input and press availability)

❤️ Must haves to write for us!

• Able to write to a good level in English.
• Basic Understanding of WordPress.
• Passion for New Wave of Traditional Heavy Metal and similar genres.

✅Here are a few things that will work in your favour when applying:

• You want to get stuck in and are able to contribute weekly.
• You can turn around pieces quickly.
• You take initiative and source news and others things to cover.
• You maintain great communication via Slack.
• Above all you show your passion for writing and love for heavy metal!

❌What we are not looking for:

• Unable to communicate regularly via slack.
• Unable to deliver pieces in agreed timeframes.
• Push out rush pieces with no effort.
• Write for a site that covers the same style content.

#creativeWriting #HeavyMetal #joinTheTeam #NewWaveOfTraditionalHeavyMetal #NWOTHM #thenwothm #thenwothmCom #WriteForThenwothm #WriteForUs

Live roundup 36#

We are back with another live roundup showing you some of the best gigs and festivals coming up in the near future! Buying in advance both supports bands and festivals helping to make sure shows go ahead! So what are you waiting for, go and grabs some tickets!

What your gig featured?

If you would like to have your gig featured here please drop us a message on our socials or email [email protected]!

#1 Vendel

More info: https://www.instagram.com/vendel_epic_metal/

#2 Iron Driver

More info:https://www.facebook.com/irondrivernworhm

#3 Cruelforce

More info: https://www.instagram.com/cruelforceofficial/

#4 Sinner Rage

More info: https://www.facebook.com/SinnerRageHeavyMetal

#5 Heretic Steel

More info:https://www.instagram.com/heresymetalmedia/

#6 Starlett Stock Hard N heavy Festival

More info: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100094397856444

#7 Tailgunner @ Sweden Rock

More info: https://www.facebook.com/tailgunnerhq

#8 Guerrilla Gathering

More info: https://www.tixforgigs.com/Event/69029?af=preezw1n1iwf&saf=1zr0vjf

#9 Iron Maiden US tour 2026

More info:https://www.ironmaiden.com/

#10 Taunus Metal Festival XVI

More info: https://www.facebook.com/taunusmetal

#1 #10 #2 #3 #4 #5 #6 #7 #8 #9 #AMBUSH #cruelForce #GuerrillaGathering #HeavyMetal #HereticFestival #IronDriver #IronMaiden #mechanicTyrants #NewWaveOfTraditionalHeavyMetal #NWOTHM #SinnerRage #speedMetal #spitfire #starlettStock #SwedenRock #Tailgunner #TaunusMetalFestivalXVI #thenwothm #vendel

Review: Steel Arctus “Dreamruler”

Pablo Rumel

Release date: 28.11.2025

Steel Arctus is a Greek heavy metal band that merges the spirit of epic storytelling with the intensity of power and traditional heavy metal. Formed in 2020 by guitarist Thanasis “Nash” Gousis, the group draws inspiration from legends such as Manowar, Judas Priest, and Dio, combining mythological themes, heroic imagery, and sharp musicianship into a cohesive and cinematic sound.

REVIEW

If a song is titled Cry for Revenge, it cannot start with a gentle play of strings: Steel Arctus strikes with full force from the very first second, with riffs reminiscent of early Hammerfall—choppy, detailed at the end of each turn, and crowned by a short, sharp solo. Tasos Lazaris’s voice is exquisite, skillfully navigating between rough mid and high tones, especially in those hoarse phrases that recall Chris Boltendahl from Grave Digger, yet his versatility allows him to reach many different textures, making his performance a total asset to the record. Pay attention to the choral counterpoint in the final seconds, and you’ll understand why his inclusion is perfect.

Already showcasing their power, Steel Arctus now launches Defender of Steel with an epic-sounding synthesized intro, soon interrupted by pounding rhythms and well-blended 80s-style keyboards. The tempos are moderate, the choruses inspired, and while the theme repeats familiar imagery from heavy metal—high-pitched screams and swift transitions, it still radiates a metallic vibe and grandeur rarely heard in bands these days, ending with an inspired solo.

If the first song carried a European inspiration and the second an American one, the third defines their sound in a way that recalls the old Italian power metal greats, yet with its own identity. Under Minas Chatziminas’s command, the drums do not bulldoze everything with double bass, but instead rely on a controlled, versatile technique that enhances the rhythmic strength of Fate of the Beast, with choruses, counterpoints, and guitar riffs built through tremolo and palm-mute. Dreamruler returns to a calmer pace without losing its power and intensity, with greater progression and personality, standing as one of the record’s high points.

The fifth song, Wicked Lies, feels like the end of the first act. It’s calmer, with bass lines taking the lead and keyboard sounds that don’t quite convince, though its dramatic structure, full of crescendos between verses and lively sections, makes up for it, supported by solid solo work. The lead guitar throughout the album sounds fresh and technically competent, though never excessive, opting to blend into the arrangements rather than steal the spotlight.

Indeed, Fires of Death marks a reset in the record. It strays from traditional heavy structures and dives into progressive metal territory, full of sectional breaks, syncopated rhythms, and more fills in the bass lines. Mr. Lazaris’s vocal range sounds divine, with sustained highs and a superb vibrato technique. Some phrases feel forced, but that’s understandable since the track leans toward a theatrical, operatic tone.

Riding Through the Night showcases the band’s full potential: calm and fast sections, inspired choruses, daring brief phrasing intertwined with spiraling riffs, and sharper, faster solos. It encapsulates the entire album in one song and could easily serve as an entry point for new listeners.

Glory of the Hero isn’t the best opener. The bar remains high, with strong rhythmic interplay beneath the choruses and quick, effective guitar solos, though the neoprog-style keyboards at the beginning might puzzle listeners unfamiliar with the genre. For that reason, it works better as a dessert, wrapping up the feast these Greek bangers have prepared for us.

Will to Power may sound generic overall—from its title to the martial drumming and the heavy, groove-laden sections full of repetitive chords—but the vocal phrasing saves it from sinking. In a different mood comes Legend of the Warrior, the album’s longest track, divided into several arcs. It begins with clean, melancholic guitars, followed by emotional power chord sections, then returns to the clean parts. Synths accompany the slower moments with an 80s vibe, almost like a horror film. Though it may sound like a stretch, some riffs are reminiscent of the heavier parts of Radiohead’s Paranoid Android (4:03–4:29), yet rather than a quirk, it reminds us that the waters of metal are not closed and can indeed dialogue with other styles.

Onar—Greek for “dream”—is the end of the journey. Over a dreamy backdrop, we hear a wind instrument and slow acoustic arpeggios. It’s a two-minute piece, almost an epilogue, since the farewell begins in the previous track. It might have been merged with Legend, but as an artistic gesture, it works and does not feel out of place.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WI4cvo8Ijwg

Conclusion

Steel Arctus delivers with “Dreamruler” a solid work, balanced between nostalgia and the search for identity. There is no room for filler or empty virtuosity, every track serves a purpose in the album’s sonic narrative. What in other bands might sound like mere repetition of classic heavy/power formulas becomes here a reaffirmation of style, with progressive risks and outstanding vocal performance. The only weak points lie in some synthesized passages or slightly off-key arrangements, yet the energy and compositional craft more than make up for them.

TheNwothm Score: 8.5/10

It doesn’t revolutionize the genre, but it honors it with conviction, elegance, and a power rarely found in today’s European metal.

Links

Bandcamp:https://steelarctus.bandcamp.com/

Facebook:https://www.facebook.com/steelarctus

Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/steel_arctus/

Label: No Remorse Records

#Dreamruler #greece #greekHeavyMetal #hammerfall #heavy #HeavyMetal #NewWaveOfTraditionalHeavyMetal #NOREMORSE #noRemorseRecords #NWOTHM #SteelArctus #thenwothm