Description
Warrior of Light is the debut album by the British hard rock trio Force 3, released on Pure Metal Records in 1988, a division of Refuge Music Group, distributed by Spectra Distribution. The album was recorded and mixed by Armand John Petri assisted by Colin Owen at The Old Smithy in Worcestershire, England; with Petri producing. All songs written by the band.
Force 3 is Charlie Wilson (of 100% Proof fame) on lead guitar and vocals, G.B. Bennett on bass, and Andy Jackson on drums and vocals.
In 1994 the band released a 3-track demo cassette entitled On The Right Track. The band also released a 2-track demo cassette entitled Opposing Forces just before or after their debut album.
Charlie Wilson formed Force 3 who only recorded this one album after having been a member of seminal British metal band 100% Proof and this was the project he started when his previous band folded. Recorded in 1988, ‘Warrior Of Light’ is an early production of Armand John Petri who later worked with a slew of bands including Goo Goo Dolls and Sixpence None The Richer and who was flown into the UK by Refuge Records to work with this bunch of raw Brit rockers. Wilson takes care of vocals and lead guitar work and in places this really works so the blistering guitar work at the end of «Wondering» gives plenty of opportunity for Wilson to flex his muscles. Mainly he is the king of the riff and also the king of uncompromising messages. Highlights include the closing choruses of «Golgotha» with its repeat of «He is risen». «See The Light» grooves along powerfully while «Don’t Give Up» packs a huge punch. However, it’s the epic closing title track with its Gregorian chant opening and meaty metal riffing which makes for the most powerful track both from a musical and spiritual perspective. Listening to this, it deserved to get a bigger profile at the time of release but sadly didn’t get the attention that other Christian metal albums of the era received. It’s definitely worth seeking out if you like it when things are turned up to 11. [Mike Rimmer, Cross Rhythms, December 2010]
Force Three is an interesting band with interesting, futuristic graphics. The production on this British trio’s record is very strong. The chords crunch and the individual elements that make up their sound come through. The music is driving and powerful. And Charlie Wilson is a great guitar player. Showing speed, finesse, and style, he makes this album come alive over the top of the accurate and energetic rhythm section.
The song «Warrior of Light» is great, complete with its Gregorian chant intro. This band has a sense of style and a touch of inventiveness. A strong effort by these guys. Give this a seven and a half. [Steve Rabey and Devlin Donaldson, CCM, October 1988]
LP tracklist:
Side One
A1. “Heartbeat” – 3:04
A2. “Trouble On The Streets” – 2:45
A3. “Wondering” – 2:52
A4. “Golgotha (He Is Risen)” – 6:03
Side Two
B1. “See The Light” – 2:55
B2. “Miracles” – 4:50
B3. “Don’t Give Up” – 2:54
B4. “Warrior Of Light” – 5:30
Note: Simultaneously released on cassette, 12-inch vinyl LP, and CD by Pure Metal Records.
Force 3, Opposing Forces (Demo 1987)
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