Battle Hymns MMXI – Manowar (2010)
Released in 2010, Battle Hymns MMXI is a complete re-recording of Manowar’s 1982 debut Battle Hymns. Rather than a simple remaster, the band rebuilt the album from the ground up with modern production, updated arrangements, and a new lineup.
The result is a heavier, more cinematic reinterpretation of one of epic metal’s foundational records — bringing the classic songs to a new generation of listeners.
Album Credits
Band Members:
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Eric Adams – Lead Vocals
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Joey DeMaio – Bass & Keyboards
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Karl Logan – Guitar
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Donnie Hamzik – Drums
Producer:
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Joey DeMaio
Studio:
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Haus Wahnfried Studios, Germany
Label:
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Magic Circle Music
Special Guest Narration:
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Christopher Lee – Narration on “Dark Avenger”
Special Notes:
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Marked the return of original drummer Donnie Hamzik.
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Replaced the original Orson Welles narration with a new performance by Christopher Lee.
Album Tracklist
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Death Tone MMXI
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Metal Daze MMXI
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Fast Taker MMXI
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Shell Shock MMXI
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Manowar MMXI
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Dark Avenger MMXI
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William’s Tale MMXI
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Battle Hymn MMXI
Total Length: Approx. 42 minutes
Cover Art & Design – Mini Description
The cover of Battle Hymns MMXI reimagines the original 1982 barbarian artwork with enhanced detail, darker tones, and modern digital rendering. The iconic warrior standing atop skulls remains central, but the image is sharper, more dramatic, and visually intensified.
The updated artwork mirrors the album’s sonic approach: faithful to the original spirit, yet bigger, louder, and more polished.
Musical Style & Sound
Battle Hymns MMXI maintains the core compositions of the 1982 release but introduces:
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Modern, high-definition production
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Heavier guitar tones
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Fuller orchestration and layered arrangements
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A more mature vocal performance by Eric Adams
Tracks like “Battle Hymn MMXI” and “Dark Avenger MMXI” feel more cinematic and expansive, while faster songs such as “Metal Daze MMXI” retain their raw energy with improved clarity.
The overall sound is more powerful and polished compared to the gritty production of the original album.
Fun Facts & Trivia
1. Christopher Lee’s Contribution
Legendary actor Christopher Lee provided narration for “Dark Avenger MMXI,” replacing the original narration by Orson Welles from the 1982 version.
2. Not Just a Remaster
Unlike a simple remaster, this version was fully re-recorded with new performances, updated instrumentation, and modern mixing.
3. Donnie Hamzik’s Return
Original drummer Donnie Hamzik returned for this project, reconnecting the album with its early-era roots.
4. A Tribute to Their Legacy
The album was released nearly 30 years after the original, celebrating Manowar’s enduring commitment to epic heavy metal.
Did You Know?
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Christopher Lee was also a heavy metal enthusiast and later collaborated with symphonic metal artists.
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The MMXI version of “Battle Hymn” is often praised for its grand orchestral buildup.
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Joey DeMaio personally oversaw the production to ensure the album reflected his modern vision of Manowar’s sound.
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The release introduced classic Manowar songs to younger fans who discovered the band in the 2000s.
