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This is the Latvian band’s long out-of-print
demo recordings from 1997, which have been remastered for better listening
and repackaged for more coherent eyes. Skyforger
have also recorded 4 new tracks noted as an EP to accompany this reissue.
Basically, the first 7 tracks (the demo of Semigalls Warchant) are
extreme pagan metal pieces and the final 4 are more folk-oriented
(Asinslauks). Skyforger’s sound has certainly gone full circle
since their beginnings, but still noticeably similar in style. The
vocals are really the biggest change, but are still very much folk/pagan.
The rest of the band’s sound is still very much intact from
its early years, except for the use of more traditional instruments.
There are more guitar solos and better drumming, even a more heavy
metal feel at times also. It's similar to the evolution of the bands
Månegarm and Cruachan, mixed together so-to-speak to make clearer
a sort of close resemblance of Skyforger's sound nowadays. If you
have a knack for traditional / pagan metal, this reissue is an excellent
starting point for you! Hail to the Heathen gods! Rating: 78 Reviewed By: Thomas Mitchell |
