Kings of Metal MMXIV – Manowar (2014)
Released in 2014, Kings of Metal MMXIV is a complete re-recording of Manowar’s legendary 1988 album Kings of Metal. Rather than issuing a simple remaster, the band rebuilt the record with modern production, updated arrangements, expanded orchestration, and a new lineup.
The result is a heavier, more cinematic reinterpretation of one of epic heavy metal’s most iconic releases.
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 Notes:
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Fully re-recorded versions of the original 1988 tracks
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Expanded orchestral arrangements and modernized production
Album Tracklist
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Kings of Metal MMXIV
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The Crown and the Ring MMXIV
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Heart of Steel MMXIV
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The Warrior’s Prayer MMXIV
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Wheels of Fire MMXIV
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Hail and Kill MMXIV
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The Power of Thy Sword MMXIV
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Sting of the Bumblebee MMXIV
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Thy Kingdom Come MMXIV
Total Length: Approx. 60 minutes
Cover Art & Design – Mini Description
The cover artwork of Kings of Metal MMXIV reimagines the original 1988 barbarian-warrior imagery with sharper detail, darker tones, and enhanced digital depth. The muscular warrior stands victorious over a battlefield of skulls beneath a storm-filled sky, lightning striking in the background.
The updated artwork mirrors the album’s sonic overhaul — faithful to the original concept, yet bigger, louder, and more theatrical.
Musical Style & Sound
Kings of Metal MMXIV retains the core songwriting of the 1988 classic but introduces:
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Modern, high-definition production
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Fuller orchestration and choirs
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Heavier guitar tones
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More layered vocal harmonies
Tracks like “Hail and Kill MMXIV” and “Kings of Metal MMXIV” sound grander and more cinematic, while “Heart of Steel MMXIV” benefits from a richer, more polished vocal delivery by Eric Adams.
The overall sound is denser and more symphonic compared to the rawer late-80s production.
Fun Facts & Trivia
1. Not a Remaster
This is a complete re-recording, not a remaster. Every instrument and vocal part was performed again in the studio.
2. Expanded Arrangements
Several tracks feature extended intros, additional orchestration, and updated arrangements compared to the 1988 originals.
3. Modern Lineup Interpretation
The album showcases how the 2014 lineup interprets Manowar’s most celebrated material.
4. Anniversary Celebration
The release commemorated more than 25 years since the original Kings of Metal defined Manowar’s late-80s era.
Did You Know?
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The original Kings of Metal (1988) remains one of the band’s most commercially successful albums.
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Joey DeMaio personally supervised the re-recording to modernize the sound while preserving the epic spirit.
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“The Crown and the Ring MMXIV” features expanded choir arrangements for a more symphonic feel.
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The MMXIV version sparked debate among longtime fans over whether the original or re-recorded version sounds more powerful.
Cultural Impact & Legacy
Kings of Metal MMXIV demonstrates Manowar’s commitment to preserving and reinventing their legacy. While some fans remain loyal to the original 1988 release, others appreciate the clarity, orchestral depth, and modern production of this updated version.
The album serves as both tribute and reinterpretation — reinforcing Manowar’s status as self-declared “Kings of Metal” more than three decades after their debut.
Download Manowar Albums from Amazon Music
More Albums:
Manowar - Into Glory Ride (1983)
Manowar - Hail to England (1984)
Manowar - Sign of the Hammer (1984)
Manowar - Fighting the World (1987)
Manowar - Kings of Metal (1988)
