Ensiferum keep managing to produce stunning albums. This is a perfect of blend of power, death, and folk metal. It really is a stunning piece of work.The only way to even come close to doing this album justice is to go through each track.
The first track, and instrumental, really is an epic. It gets you in the mood for what's to come and displays their musical prowess.
The second track, "Blood is the price of glory", is a perfect example of what makes this band so listenable. The energetic intro will blow you away. A terrifying growl with a stunning melody kick off what is a trademark Ensiferum track.
They manage to get even better with the next track, "Deathbringer from the sky". This is an up-tempo, power metal-esque track with the catchiest metal chorus known to man. You can't help sing along and raise your first in the air at the epic chant of "Deathbringer from the sky". This song also has one of the best intro/chorus riffs you are likely to hear. Absolute perfection.
Track number 4 is "Ahti". Don't let the 15 seconds of near silence fool you, the intro soon kicks in and it'll have you banging your head immediately. It's everything that folk metal should be. Once again, the chorus will have you singing along in no time. Sublime.
Number 5 is "One more magic potion". It starts with a wonderfully constructed flute (or some variation thereof) melody, before the guitars take over. Again, this has some of the catchiest melodies and hook lines you could hope for in metal, and once again the vocals that accompany them are simply unreal. The chorus, as usual, is pure sword-raising battle-fighting metal.
Number 6 is a beautiful track called "Wanderer". Starting with another slowed down folk instrumental, it soon breaks into a marvellous low-tempo battle hymn. Brilliant stuff.
7 is "Raised by the sword". This track has everything you expect from Ensiferum. Fast, raging guitar riffs, lightning quick double kicks, catchy and melodic hook lines, and amazing vocals. One of the best.
Track number 8, "The New Dawn", is another track which appears to be played at the speed of light right from the start. The guitar harmonies are extremely impressive and this track really shows off the virtuoso performances that each member of the band gives on this album.
The last track is "Victory song", a ten minute epic which is what can only be described as a masterpiece. You have to listen to this, my words will never do it justice.
There are no bad tracks on this album, that's how good it is. If I could give it more stars I would.
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