Image: 25 years of Sabaton – Official Press Photo
For 25 years, Sabaton have captured the drama and heroism of the past with their unique ability to transform historical events and battles into powerful metal anthems. With energetic riffs, anthemic choruses, and profound lyrics, they captivate fans worldwide. Here, we present the seven best Sabaton songs that have not only shaped their career but also left a lasting impact on the metal scene. Immerse yourself in epic stories of bravery, war, and historical turning points.
1. Primo Victoria
“Primo Victoria” is one of Sabaton’s most iconic songs and centers on the D-Day landings during World War II. The song is from the eponymous debut album, which jump-started Sabaton’s career in 2005. "Primo Victoria" was their big breakthrough and established them as a metal act that incorporates war history into their music. The energetic music and gripping lyrics perfectly capture the tension and chaos of D-Day.
2. Ghost Division
“Ghost Division” describes the lightning-fast tactics of the German Panzer Division under General Erwin Rommel during World War II. This track is one of Sabaton’s fastest songs, featuring rapid riffs and powerful drums that reflect the speed and precision of military operations.
3. Bismarck
“Bismarck” is a tribute to the German battleship that played a central role during World War II. The song was released independently from an album and quickly gained cult status, not least due to the epic music video, which you can watch here. Musically, "Bismarck" stands out with its heroic intro, heavy guitars, and unforgettable chorus. It’s one of the best examples of how Sabaton masterfully combines historical events with musical drama.
4. Night Witches
“Night Witches” is dedicated to the fascinating story of the Soviet bomber pilots from the 588th Night Bomber Regiment during World War II, who terrorized German troops at night. Sabaton skillfully conveys the danger and courage of these women through powerful melodies and driving rhythms. The chorus, which raises the name “Night Witches” like a battle cry, makes this song one of the band’s most compelling tracks.
5. The Last Stand
“The Last Stand” tells the story of the Swiss Guard, who heroically defended the life of Pope Clement VII during the 1527 Sack of Rome. The song is epic both lyrically and musically. The anthemic melodies and catchy chorus make it one of Sabaton’s most emotional songs. Sabaton's ability to capture the sacrifice and bravery of the Guard in this track shows their talent for underscoring historical events with grand musical gestures.
6. Soldiers of Heaven
“Soldiers of Heaven” depicts the battles on the Italian front during World War I, particularly in the Alps, where soldiers fought under extreme conditions. The song stands out for its atmospheric composition. It captures the cold, oppressive atmosphere of the Alpine battles and combines it with Sabaton’s signature elements: heavy riffs and an anthemic chorus. The lyrical depth and epic musical structure make this song a fan favorite.
7. To Hell and Back
“To Hell and Back” tells the glorious story of Audie Murphy, one of the most decorated U.S. soldiers of World War II, who struggled with severe psychological trauma after his service. The song begins with a whistling intro reminiscent of classic Western soundtracks and evolves into one of Sabaton’s most epic tracks. This stylistic blend of Western and metal gives the song a unique touch, setting it apart from other Sabaton works.
8. Carolus Rex
“Carolus Rex” is the title track of the 2012 album of the same name, which was awarded quadruple platinum in Sweden. It deals with the reign of Charles XII, King of Sweden, in the 17th and early 18th centuries. The song is an epic piece in which Sabaton addresses a significant chapter in the history of their homeland, Sweden. With majestic melodies and powerful riffs, Carolus Rex skillfully captures the glory and downfall of the Swedish Empire, while the anthemic chorus and profound lyrics, available in both Swedish and English, bring the historical theme to life.
