AMON AMARTH - Jomsviking
March 25, 2016, 8 years ago
(Metal Blade)
Good to know that as they stand on the precipice of global domination (already there, outside North America), the Viking horde has not watered down their approach. Sure, this is the initial foray into storytelling/concept album, but “First Kill” knocks any misgivings out of your head, from the first notes. Even on the bouncy, mid-tempo follow-up, “Wanderer”, Johan Hegg bellows fiercely, like he's been told the bar is out of beer! The song works itself into a frenzy, so by the end, he's barking short phrases to keep pace. That said, Jomsviking is a grower, not as immediate as With Oden On Our Side, nor Deceiver Of The Gods.
After synth intro, “The Way Of The Vikings” rattles off triggered drums like a machine gun. Can you imagine the Norse invaders armed with such an easily armed weapon? Run for cover, said track is the aural equivalent, spraying lead indiscriminately. Found in the midst of the others (not placed at the conclusion of the disc), bonus track “Vengeance Is My Name” is a pure slice of galloping Euro metal. Along with backing chorus of "whoa whoa," mid-tempo drinking song (and future outdoor festival anthem) “Raise Your Horns” rides a staccato riff, while “A Dream That Cannot Be” features a guest appearance by trilling voice Doro Pesch, trading vocal lines in counterpoint to Hegg's gruffness. The closing “Back On Northern Shores” opens with vintage guitar tones and some hammer-on tapping. Hail & kill!
