DEFENDERS OF THE FAITH was originally a solo project by Christofer Johnsson (THERION), where he would realise his childhood dream of making a pure 80s heavy metal album, but has evolved into a THERION side project. 2022-24 was packed with THERION releases and tours, but Christofer would have drums, bass and guitars recorded a bit here and there, using Therion members. With time, Thomas would get involved to ”improve some things”, but it ended up with him becoming deeply involved and together they would rewrite most of the songs + write material for a second album. The album is called ”Odes To The Gods” and is a musical tribute to the bands that shaped the mind of young Christofer, among other bands Accept, Judas Priest, Scorpions and Iron Maiden.
Guests on the album: Björn Höglund (EASY ACTION, HOVEN DROVEN) – Drums, Ally Storch (HAGGARD) - Violin, viola, cello, David Holmes - Acoustic guitar, Christopher Davidsson (MAJESTICA) - Lead and backing vocals Diego Valdez (DIO DICIPLES) Lead and backing vocals, Ripper Owens (KK’s PRIEST ex. JUDAS PRIEST, ex. YNGWIE MALMSTEEN, ex. ICED EARTH)
lead and back vocals.
1. Heavy Metal Shakedown
2. I’m In Love With My Tank
3. The Time Machine
4. Northern Stones
5. Darkside Brigade
6. Funeral Pyre
7. Intruder
8. Our Saviour
9. The End Of The World