Review Summary: a spectacular spectacle
So you like cheesy folk metal and want to listen to more. Finsterforst has you covered in spades, and then some. Accordions are included amongst the sinister slaps of heavy riff crunches. ‘nuff said. Double bass pedal is a must and a firm yes, as well. These growls are very Wintersun-esque but less irritating. Pretty much everything is right with the world in this cheesy, yet elegantly heavy fairy garden for the ears.
The only problem is if you don’t have the time to listen to this album. It’s over an hour of the same long acoustic segments, and melodic shreds. Still, the music will draw you in and goes with the waves of the battlefield tides. It’s absolutely repetitive. There are moments that will make you question when the next kick will be. Of course, it’s lurking around the corner, and gloriously bombastic. The song Untergang is a complete epic in every sense of the word, and will make new fans, especially for fans of Agalloch.
For fans of anything that’s remotely folk metal, this is the cream of the crop. It comes from a band that can do no wrong. They can play their acoustic with the licks from gentle hands and clear care of craft. The way acoustics meld into guitars has a delicate touch that Draconian is so good at, yet these bosses can compete. It’s forest music for an adventure with Vikings, or perhaps it’s a solitary adventure through lands unknown. No matter where you bring this music, the music will feel like home.
If simple riffs and accordions occurred all would be well and good. Instead, we’re treated with catchy acoustic bits, memorable guitars, and danceable accordions. The album is a mind burrower, and will stay snug inside for quite a while. Even for those unsure about the folk metal genre, this album may make converts. Melodies like these are hard to beat, and indeed, the band remains top tier.
