Melodic Viking Metal
40.06 (8 songs)
Cool songs: Arson, Where Death Seems to Dwell, The Fate of Norns, Valkyries Ride
www.amonamarth.com
Throughout their entire career, Swedens Amon Amarth has maintained a consistent level of performance. You can always be assured that every 18 months or so, AA will deliver another dose of stirring epic metal. Last years Verses The World disc was just about the best thing theyve ever done and was just the tonic needed in the face of the more lackluster 2002 album The Avenger. As a major fan of the band, I was extremely keen to see where AA would take their sound next.
It could be argued that Amon Amarth have hardly progressed since day one, and the more fickle metal supporter would have no qualms in saying that AA have pretty much written the same album over and over for the past five albums. There is some merit in that call, however I point out that as far as passionate epic metal that stirs the soul, Amon Amarth pretty much stand alone among the glut of other Swedish Melodic Death Metal acts. No one else does an epic Viking anthem quite like Amon Amarth.
Fate of Norns is pure Amon Amarth. However, as far as an extension on their sound it doesnt push any groundbreaking barriers – this more of a continuation if you will. AA took some major step with VTW in that they opted to back off on the brutality and speed factor. This allowed a heavier, more melodic sound to be attained, as well as exacerbating that essential uplifting atmosphere that their compositions conveyed. Whilst I believe that FON doesnt have the passion or artistic flair that so enamored VTW it is most certainly built upon the successful formula that VTW portrayed.
No doubt, Amon Amarth is pretty comfortable with the style of music they now write. They see no reason to fix something that isnt broke – If you liked VTW then youll find Fate of Norns to be a more than solid addition to the bands catalogue. Despite a less than convincing production and a less than instant set of songs, it displays every essential characteristic that AA is renowned for – mid tempo pacing, super melodic leads, harsh vocals and that majestic off to battle atmosphere. But, and I warn you again, expect nothing more.
Amon Amarth is still churning out their own brand of quality Viking Metal. But perhaps, it is a little on the safe side. Fate of Norns is, possibly, not the monster it could have been (and it certainly doesnt match the strength of VTW), but long time fans will still revel in the epic anthems laid down here. Having said that, even the die-hards patience might be tested if Amon Amarth dont come up with a reinvention of sorts on their next album.
note: 7.9/10
Tracklist
1. An Ancient Sign Of Coming Storm
2. Where Death Seems To
3. DwellThe Fate Of Norns
4.Pursuit Of Vikings
5.The Valkyries Ride
6.Beheading Of A King
7.Arson.
8.Once Sealed In Blood
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