Inspired by the cross-cultural warrior archetype which is symbolic of strength, courage, mastery & honor. These 4 “tactical virtues” & the concept of “The Striker” are outlined in the writings of Jack Donovan, who commissioned & inspired this song by way of a “Solar Sounds” Grant which I received in the Summer of 2021. “Thumos” (which is Ancient Greek for righteous indignation) is a fitting name for the mythical sword of the warrior above all warriors who faces darkness to bring order out of chaos. The real-life sword was designed & forged by composer & bladesmith Brendan Steele (aka Stagsmith).

THUMOS: Sword of The Striker was hand forged from Go Mai (5-Layer Damascus Steel) where the alternating layers create a pattern reminiscent of lightning and fire traveling along the blade.

The guard and grip are handcrafted from Roe and Sambar Stag antler, accented with leather and sinew wraps.

The forged iron ring pommel is cast with brass and features a unique iron insignia…the symbol of The Striker.

Keeping to my folk metal roots, the song intro features Irish flute and bodhran drums, accompanied by the sound of a crackling campfire (a nod to Jack Donovan’s book - Fire In The Dark).

The repetitive chant of “Thumos” builds with intensity as the warriors around the fire invoke the spirit of this mighty archetype. The flute gradually gains distortion and delay effects which make this acoustic instrument almost electronic - I intended this to illustrate the timeless qualities that the Striker displays across time and culture.

By the time the lyrics kick in the song hits full metal mode. Fast and heavy guitar riffs symbolizing battle are broken up by a big, melodic chorus meant to signify the glory of victory.

Thumos (chant, repeated)

Strike! (chant, repeated)

I am the striker, weapon of the father

I stand in darkness...unlike another

I face the serpent - writhing and turning

Beneath the waves of doubt

Beyond an ocean...of fear.

But what is fear, but what they cannot see?

And what is doubt, but that which isn’t tested?

Struggle is all I know, this path was laid for me

Fate...will find us all, even beneath the sea

Strike! Thumos, strike!

You want darkness? Stare into my storm.

Let the raindrops kiss your eyes goodbye before they burn

You want chaos? Be deafened by the roar

As lightning cracks the sky, my weapon ends your war

The rising sun brings the scales of order

Weighing poison against strength and light

And as the sun casts a shadow before us

Who is it then, that turns to hide?

Strike! Thumos, strike!

I am the striker (Strike!)

Weapon of the father (Strike)

light out of darkness (Strike!)

Chaos into order (Thumos!)