|
Falconer
Falconer |
|
From the ashes of Mithotyn rises the mighty Falconer, a powerfully constructed project from its former members and one that offers a decidedly more majestic surrounding. Built strongly on traditionally Nordic principles, the difference between the two are clear from the onset-and as a good a place to begin as any, the recording is nearly flawless. The lead vocals of Mathias Blad are right out of the history books with a fine narrative quality and perfect clarity, while the music retains much of the intensity of the prior work but in a much more polished condition. "Upon the Grave of Guilt" is a soaring classic in the making with several instrumental explorations and interesting forays within its outer laying boundaries while subjectively recalling dark memories of the past. "Heresy in Disguise" is simply a perfect compliment to the opening track and just fits as the second song on the album. No less powerful, yet extremely catchy, it employs an excellent use of rhythmic contrast ranging well between the slower patterns during the verse and cutting loose during the chorus while maintaining a graceful charm all throughout-this could well be the crowning achievement from the album if not from among the instrumentally superior of the bunch. Falconer is the product of Stefan Weinerhall's vision… the guitarist at the forefront of what was a then up and coming Swedish dark Metal powerhouse, sought to create a more introspective and imaginative musical journey without boundaries and in Falconer, the expanse is broad, and the band have done well to make their vision reach fruition. Blended richly in a mix of power, speed, melody and authoritative instrumentation, other songs as "Wings of Serenity," "A Quest for the Crown," and "Mind Traveller," all embody a sense of freedom, destiny, and eternity in an enchanting mythological setting for a new album that somehow manages to sound fresh considering how many others have tripped through the oft-explored kingdom… Released by Metal Blade Records
GmbH, P.O. Box 1332, 73054 Eislingen, Germany. Review by Vinnie Apicella [va85@columbia.edu] |