A Storm to Come

A Storm to Come is the 2006 debut studio album by German ensemble Van Canto, introducing the world to their self-styled 'Hero Metal a cappella.' The album is notable for its complete lack of stringed instruments, relying instead on five vocalists and a drummer. The band utilizes 'lead' singers for melody while the remaining vocalists provide the 'rhythm guitar' and 'bass' through rhythmic syllables and deep, resonant humming. This debut established their signature sound, particularly the use of the 'rakkatakka' vocalization to drive the tempo. The tracklist features a mix of original compositions like 'The Mission' and a high-profile cover of Metallica's 'Battery,' which served as a proof-of-concept for their unique style. Critically, the album was received as a novelty that possessed genuine musical depth, eventually leading to the band's signing with Napalm Records and becoming a staple of the European metal festival circuit.