Battalion - Runaway (CD, 2012, Arkeyn Steel) 1994 Xian Prog Power reissue!
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- Original release 1994
- Arkeyn Steel 2012 remaster / Greek Import
- Jewel case with band pics / lyrics
- Five exclusive bonus tracks
- For fans of Queensryche, early Fates Warning, Crimson Glory, Recon, Sacred Warrior!
ABOUT THE ALBUM
Battalion – Runaway (Arkeyn Steel Records)
Don’t worry if you’re unfamiliar with Battalion, a metal band hailing from La Crosse, Wisconsin. Their independently released debut, Runaway (1994), remains a hidden gem from an era that wasn’t particularly friendly to metal and hard rock. Battalion first emerged in 1990, when original members Brad Lundstrom (vocals), Les Rouse (guitar), Kjell Hatlevig (bass), and Rob Kay (drums) released a demo in 1992. However, the lineup evolved before work began on Runaway in 1993, with Jay Curatolo replacing Hatlevig on bass and Joe Siegel taking over for Kay on drums.
As is often the case with independent releases, Runaway quickly went out of print, and Battalion faded into obscurity. That changed in 2012 when Arkeyn Steel Records reissued the album, adding one track from the 1992 demo, four from an unreleased 1995 demo, and two bootleg live recordings. The reissue also features remastered audio, new artwork, full lyrics, unpublished band photos, and a detailed band biography.
Musically, Battalion draws comparisons to Sacred Warrior and Queensrÿche. Brad Lundstrom’s soaring, high-end vocal style recalls the likes of Rey Parra and Geoff Tate. While Runaway could broadly be categorized as melodic power metal, the album’s diversity defies easy classification.
The first two tracks, “Don’t Wait” and “Runaway,” deliver catchy hooks more akin to ‘80s melodic metal and hard rock than traditional power metal. Tracks like “He Is Lord” lean into worshipful melodic rock, while “The Lord Sees” and “I Give You My Life” are radio-friendly ballads—one lighter in touch, the other more guitar-driven.
The album’s heavier cuts channel classic power metal. “Judgment Day” and “Gates of Heaven” combine muscle and technical precision, while “Only Human” offers relentless intensity anchored by a commanding bass line. “Eyes of Love” adds accessible elements but with a sharp, guitar-focused edge. The standout track, “Vices,” is a six-minute masterpiece of intricate power/progressive metal.
While the production reflects some mid-‘90s limitations, the remastering brightens the sound significantly.
The strength of Runaway lies in its versatility. Battalion proves to be more than just a power metal band, appealing to fans of melodic and hard rock alike. Listeners who enjoy Sacred Warrior, Queensrÿche, or melodic power metal in general will find plenty to appreciate here.
The bonus material enhances the reissue’s appeal. “Test of Time” from the 1992 demo is an up-tempo hard rocker with uplifting energy. The 1995 demo tracks showcase the band’s evolution, with highlights including the melodic power metal anthem “Day of the Coming” and the aggressive “Here and Now.” A standout instrumental track features lively riffing and scintillating solos, spotlighting Les Rouse’s exceptional guitar work reminiscent of Sacred Warrior’s Bruce Swift. The live recordings include another version of “Don’t Wait” and the groove-driven “Let God Shine.”
The lyrics carry the bold, upfront message typical of the ‘80s white metal scene, leaving no doubt about the band’s faith-driven perspective.
It’s a shame Runaway was released in the mid-‘90s and got lost amid the rise of grunge and modern rock. If Battalion had emerged in the late ‘80s, they might have been mentioned alongside Whitecross, Guardian, Bride, and Bloodgood. This reissue comes highly recommended for fans of melodic and power metal alike, especially those who appreciate Queensrÿche, early Fates Warning, Crimson Glory, Recon, and Sacred Warrior.
TRACKS
Track Listing (Runaway): “Don’t Wait” (3:48), “Runaway” (4:35), “Only Human” (3:46), “He Is Lord” (4:25), “The Lord Sees” (4:11), “Eyes Of Love” (3:24), “Judgment Day” (3:25), “Gates Of Heaven” (4:02), “I Give You My Life” (4:02), “Take A Stand” (4:26), “Vices” (6:17),
Track Listing (bonus material): “Test Of Time” (4:33), “Day Of The Coming” (4:08), “Here And Now” (3:37), “On And On Again” (4:29), “Don’t Wait” (3:54), “Let God Shine” (3:56)