Title: Nifelvind
Artist: Finntroll
Genre: Folk Metal
Release Date: 19th February 2010
Label: Century Media
Album Review
Since 1997, FINNTROLL have established themselves as one of the most popular bands in folk metal. As their name suggest, they are hailing from Finland and are now putting out their fifth full-length record, ‘Nifelvind’. ‘Nifelvind’ opens up with the slow, somehow epic intro ‘Blodmarsch’, which is supposed to bring the listener in the mood for what is yet to come. In the end, the tension increases due to a slightly wider spectrum of sounds. Soon, ‘Solsagan’ kicks off with an, at first, rhythmically beginning, gaining speed pretty fast. After a heavy beginning, typical folk-orientated elements and effects close in, including chanting and melodies. Together, all FINNTROLL-trademarks are represented and this song remarks a good and energetic beginning.
‘Den Frusna Munnen’ begins with a remarkable pre-intro and is based on a characteristic keyboard motif. This song mostly remains in a relatively slow area of speed, providing rather grooving or staccato-orientated phrases. The next song works with a disharmonious element which is accompanied with folkloric elements. ‘I Trädens Sång’ veers in a way more towards the black metal corner, including fast drumming and guitar riffs, again combined with the inescapable and typical touch of folk. I suppose especially fans of the first FINNTROLL works will really appreciate this song. The following song starts with men singing and then continues in a heavy, at times doom-reminding way. During the middle part, this song puts up speed.
‘Galgasång’ is the first song consisting of clear vocals, coming along with acoustic instruments. A nice diversion to the previous, fast songs and a chance to take a breath before ‘Mot Skuggornas Värld’ kicks off with an epic, power metal-orientated beginning, soon veering into a heavier, darker direction. The based riff is constructed in a rather simple but catchy way. The chants during the song are surely suitable for actions during concerts. The ninth song in contradiction to its predecessor again possesses the typical FINNTROLL trademarks, fast speed and traditional motifs. Furthermore, ‘Fornfamnad’ again ties in with a very melodic, heroic motif. Subsequently, ‘Dråp’ remarks the longest song of the whole album, serving a suitable end for a unique and felicitous record. Fans of folk and Viking metal are highly recommended to give this album a few listens, since old and new elements are combined.
Tracklist
01. Blodmarsch (intro)
02. Solsagan
03. Den Frusna Munnen
04. Ett Norrskensdåd
05. I Trädens Sång
06. Tiden Utan Tid
07. Galgasång
08. Mot Skuggornas Värld
09. Under Bergets Rot
10. Fornfamnad
11. Dråp
Line-up
Routa – Guitar
Beast Dominator – Drums
Skrymer – Guitar
Tundra – Bass
Virta – Keyboard
Vreth – Vocals
Trollhorn – Keyboard, Guitar
Website
http://www.myspace.com/officialfinntroll / http://www.finntroll.net/
Cover Picture
Rating
Music: 8
Sound: 9
Extras: -
Total: 8.5 / 10
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