Wolverine - Anomalies (2026)
I wanted this to hit harder than it did. Anomalies is clearly written and performed by a band that knows exactly who they are, but that familiarity is also its main limitation. The melancholy is sincere, the structures are competent, and the musicianship is never in doubt — yet very little here surprises me. It plays like a careful continuation rather than a necessary return. I stay engaged while it’s on, but once it ends, there’s not much pulling me back beyond a few well-shaped moments.
Pros
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Consistent atmosphere – The dark, reflective prog-metal mood is coherent and sustained throughout.
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Solid compositional discipline – Songs are structured with intent; nothing feels sloppy or underwritten.
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Mature emotional tone – Themes of ageing and introspection feel honest rather than melodramatic.
Cons
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Too safe for prog – Rarely challenges its own language or pushes beyond established Wolverine territory.
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Mid-tempo drag – A lot of material sits in the same emotional and rhythmic zone, flattening impact.
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Limited replay pull – Once the album’s palette is absorbed, there’s little incentive to revisit it often.
Genre: Progressive Metal
Country: Sweden
Final Verdict: 64% (Good Album)
Yearly Ranking: 43th / 113
Highlight: Losing Game
Made me think of:
Anathema
Katatonia
Pain of Salvation
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