Just released through Nuclear Blast, Manowar's "The Dawn of Battle" is a three song single/EP; two of which are new, unreleased tracks from the "Warriors of the World" sessions ("The Dawn of Battle" & "I Believe") and a previously released track from "Warriors of the World" ("Call To Arms").

All of the songs are battle hymns. I picture "warriors of the world", Manowar fans, singing these songs into battle or at a live show. "The Dawn of Battle" is very similar to "Fight Until We Die" from "Warriors of the World"; it's has both fast double bass drums and guitar riffing, rough vocals, etc. "I Believe" is a bit slower, closer to songs like "Swords In The Wind" and "Fight For Freedom" from "Warriors of the World". Both might not seem as fresh, maybe even a bit repetitive where the lyrics and music are concerned. But it works for me and any true, hard-core Manowar fan will be pleased.

I usually don't like it when bands put unreleased songs from their album sessions on import or CD singles. Personally, I would have preferred to see "The Dawn of Battle" and "I Believe" on the "Warriors of the World" album instead of tracks like "An American Trilogy" or "Nessun Dorma"; the two most out of place tracks on that album. But this CD more than justifies the purchase with the many extras included.

"The Dawn of Battle" also includes CD-ROM material such as a documentary of the "Ringfest" performance in Cologne, Germany, August 2002 (special edit version), exclusive trailer footage of the upcoming DVD releases "Blood In Brazil" and "Hell On Earth Part II", live production lighting animation & a link to a special website, including the latest DVD connector feature providing exclusive content when viewed from a computer DVD player. The single is also available as a Premium CD and PAL DVD (area 2).

Definitely check out the two new tracks. They are worth a listen! As for the extra's, I personally can do without them but it makes the CD worth getting. A little something extra for your hard earned money.