Three years after the releases of their first full length “Bloodmoon”, the denim and leather traditionalists from Freiburg, Germany returned with the sophomore full length “Wayfarer”. While their home region is known for sunshine and wine, KERRIGAN added doses of riff power and classic grit to the mix. From the very beginning with the number ‘Torchbearer’, this record suggests a meaningful progression immediately with demonstrating a powerful blend of traditional Heavy Metal that sounds more British and Irish in spirit, despite their German roots. The musical partnership of the quartet (Bruno Schotten on guitars, Jonas Weber on vocals / guitars, Jonathan Döring on drums and Jakob Zeblin on bass) is solid, with revealing their thrilling playing style of mid-tempo openings falls into furious, high-octane charges. Further tracks like the pounding ‘Blood And Steel’ evoke the moments of IRON MAIDEN to RIOT and ‘Keep It True’ serves lika a mandatory anthem for all veterans and die hards. On the contrary, the three minute headbanger ‘Asylum’ provides the feeling of being exposed to something wild and anthemic, while ‘The Ice Witch’ leans further into the epic momentums. Lyrically, this record makes a descent into the spirit of warrior’s journey which fantastically reflected by the striking artwork of a lone rider that recalls classic epic Doom masters like SORCERER. Jonas Weber’s vocal performance shines throughout the record. His crystal clear yet mournful deliveries suitably match the atmosphere here. While the high pitched range on the lead single ‘Fighter’ reminds of the legendary energy of NWOBHM titans, the broader delivery on the dreamy title track ‘Wayfarer’ showcases the versatility of these Teutonic heavy beaters. From the dystopian essence of ‘Dystopia’ to the authenticity of ‘Surrender’ and till the pulsating finale of ‘Red Light Tower’, every song produced with a powerful and organic edge which in turns conveyed their songwriting strength KERRIGAN with upholding their traditionalist identity. So, if you prefer your Metal forged in authentic fires and dripping with timeless melodies, “Wayfarer” is the record to get hold on which have it all to be one of the strongest releases of 2026. To find out more about the band and label, visit www.facebook.com/kerriganheavymetal or www.facebook.com/hrrecords