Norwegian Native Art (Native Norwegian Art - Einherjer)

Member Name: Frankingsteins

Product:	Native Norwegian Art - Einherjer
Date:	02/07/08 (21 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Unique take on Viking metal.

Disadvantages: Overproduced and repetitive.

Einherjer were one of the more creative bands in the Viking metal genre, retaining a distinct, well-produced sound incorporating orchestra and piano and a very unusual style of guitar playing indebted to the folk tradition. The vocals are performed in gruff singing rather than the more typical growls, and indeed the black metal elements that underpin much Viking metal are all but absent even in the rare faster songs such as 'Burning Yggdrasil.'

The keyboard is a little distracting to the sense of ancient atmosphere conjured here, but the use of orchestra is superbly done, reminiscent of Therion in its more full-blown moments. This is predominantly slow-to-medium-paced epic metal based around the guitar, and the longer song lengths allow each piece to stand strong. The music is still heavy and loud without being overbearing for those less fond of extreme metal, with a convincingly thunderous sound suited to the apocalyptic Viking themes.

1. Wyrd of the Dead
2. Doomfaring
3. Hugin's Eyes
4. Burning Yggdrasil
5. Crimson Rain
6. Howl Ravens Come
7. Draconian Umpire
8. Regicide

Summary: Einherjer's third album (2000).