Review | Nils Patrik Johansson – War And Peace

Metalville

The third solo-album by Swedish singer/composer Nils Patrik Johansson is all about war and history. The man has always had interesting themes and topics. Such as the murder of Swedish Prime Minister Olof Palme on his second album ‘The Great Conspiracy’ that was released in 2020. As per usual Nils Patrik has been relying on multi-instrumentalist Lars Chriss for the production, guitars, and bass parts while his son Fredrik Johanson plays drums. For the atmospheric keyboard parts Anuviel took the responsibility upon him. Even Tommy Denander has been involved.

THEATRICAL

‘War And Peace’ has become a theatrical heavy metal album with several parts that sound familiar and are connected to the topic of the song. It has been quite an ambitious thing, this ‘War And Peace’ album. It is like a journey through history that brings us to several countries and happenings. That lesson in history might not be everyone’s cup of tea perhaps. And the way it has been presented also might not appeal to today’s youth. But if you are familiar with ‘The Great Conspiracy’ and ‘Evil Deluxe’ (the first solo-effort by the singer) and are a fan of those two records, and also the bands Astral Doors and Lion’s Share, you might find the efforts on ‘War And Peace’ most likely very satisfactory. Johansson delivers some more of that material, complete with a strong sound and arrangements.

It is safe to say that Johansson and his crew certainly have not tried to reinvent the musical wheel again. The album drips in bombastic power and force, and is filled with long and at moments quite epic songs such as ,,Barbarossa’’, ,,Prodigal Son’’ and ,,The Great Wall Of China’’ (with some classic Chinese melodies)

NILS PATRIK JOHANSSON – THE CONCLUSION

The singing of Nils Patrik is as always high pitched and full of power. His singing style is very specific indeed. It is something you like or do not like. What I am saying is, that throughout the whole album it can become a bit too much of the same when you are talking about the vocals. The music and songs are full of adventure and fantasy. Lars Chriss is very impressive as guitarist. Fredrik Johansson is leaving no stone unturned behind the drumkit.

All in all, ‘War And Peace’ is a very decent record. I can not say that it impresses for the full duration, but fans of Nils Patrik Johansson will not be disappointed with the musical results. This is a release that fits him like a glove looking at his musical past and style. You could even say that Johansson delivers that what you expect of him.

Release date: 10 October 2025