A full decade has elapsed since the unveiling of GWAR’s magnum opus, the acclaimed “Battle Maximus”
This album stands as a heartfelt tribute to the fallen Scumdog Warrior, Flattus Maximus (also known as Corey Smoot), and represents the final recording with the inimitable vocalist Oderus Urungus (a.k.a. Dave Brockie), who departed Earth in 2014.
In celebration of this monumental milestone, GWAR has unveiled a special tenth-anniversary edition of “Battle Maximus.” This edition has undergone a complete remix and remastering process, breathing new life into the album. Notably, it introduces the world to the ultimate recorded vocal performance by Oderus Urungus on the previously unreleased and hitherto unheard track, “Tammy, The Swine Queen.” You can experience this remarkable addition below.
Checking in from the road, vocalist Blöthar The Berserker commented: “Musically, ‘Battle Maximus’ is a great debut work by Pustulus Maximus, and lyrically, it is the final word of lead singer and band founder Oderus Urungus, The record is run through with the desperate, dangerous, and fully bananas imagination of Oderus. In fact, this re-release includes a song so nutty we named it twice, and then promptly forgot to put it on the record the first time around. ‘Tammy, Queen Of Dirt’ or ‘Tammy, The Swine Queen’ is the final performance of the maestro of mayhem, Oderus Urungus, and for our fans, it does not disappoint.”
Guitarist BälSäc, The Jaws ‘O Death said: “Ten years after its initial release, the wounds are just as fresh. The words that Oderus wrote as a tribute to his fallen Scumdog brother, Flattus Maximus, gain new meaning when heard as the final lyrics he would ever sing. The songs echo in stereo through the twin holes that were left in our hearts by the absence of Oderus and Flattus. This new remix of ‘Battle Maximus’ breathes new life into this album that demands to be considered as one of GWAR‘s greatest.”
Blöthar The Berserker added: “‘Battle Maximus’ is an important GWAR album. Recorded as a farewell to guitarist Flattus Maximus, this album was born out of straight pain. As the Scumdog warriors grieved the passing of their brother, they had no way of knowing they were also recording the last album with singer Oderus Urungus. ‘Battle Maximus’ then, is on the cusp of the greatest challenge of GWAR‘s career. This version has been remixed and remastered and it sounds straight up viscous. I hope you relish it as much as I…”
This commemorative edition of “Battle Maximus” is available in multiple formats, including a double LP, CD, and digital options, all proudly released through GWAR‘s very own Pit Records. The double vinyl edition boasts expanded packaging, a redesigned art scheme, and an embossed cover, making it a true collector’s item. Vinyl enthusiasts can choose from a variety of options, including Crystal Blue with Dark Blue swirl vinyl for the standard LP, Stained Glass vinyl for the Bandbox exclusive version, White with Blue swirl vinyl for the Newbury Comics version, and a Revolver Icons Series featuring multiple colors, each accompanied by NFTs for authentication.
“Battle Maximus” track listing:
01. Intro
02. Madness At The Core Of Time
03. Bloodbath
04. Nothing Left Alive
05. They Swallowed The Sun
06. Torture
07. Raped At Birth
08. I, Bonesnapper
09. Mr. Perfect
10. Tammy, The Swine Queen*
11. Battle Maximus
12. Triumph Of The Pig Children
13. Falling
14. Fly Now
15. Carry On Wayward Son
16. Wheel Of Punishment
* Previously unreleased bonus track