BROTHERS OF METAL – Emblas Saga

The sophomore release of Sweden’s Brothers Of Metal is once again thematically rooted in Viking sagas and the mythology of the north. Songs are described as catchy, hymn-like and masterfully crafted. The band states they’ve enriched their Melodic Power Metal sound with Symphonic elements.

The opening song’s narration and orchestral accompaniment herald this change and throw down the storytelling gauntlet. “POWERSNAKE” follows with thunderous drum beats, gang vocals and a mix favoring the male and female vocalist team. The guitar work doesn’t deliver a strong melodic current. It’s sacrificed on the altar of storytelling. Gang chorus backing imparts an agro-masculine touch like the movie Gladiator. This template is repeated throughout on “Hel”, “Theft Of The Hammer”, “Njord”, “Emblas Saga” and “To The Skies And Beyond”.

When the band breaks free and the melodic hounds are released, the songs really shine. “Chain Breaker” displays more aggression and a faster tempo. A bass heavy bridge is nice departure underutilized by most bands. “Ride Of The Valkyries” is similar. A song sufficiently up-tempo and bludgeoning to be worthy of its title. “Kaunaz Dagaz (Dawn Of Fire)” is the most complete and memorable song on the album combining significant melodic guitar work, excellent vocals and a hook laden inspirational chorus. This song is an early contender for song of the year. “Brothers Unite” features rich musical arrangements, spirited guitar and well executed duet and gang vocals. It’s held together with an off kilter drum beat creating a song with unique character.

While the Emblas Saga is not consistently masterfully crafted, it has moments of true excellence. Fans of bands such as Sabaton, Unleash The Archers and even Amon Amarth will find the music and themes an enjoyable listen.

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TRACKLIST (Highlights: 2, 4, 5, 10, 12)

1. Brood Of The Trickster
2. POWERSNAKE
3. Hel
4. Chain Breaker
5. Kaunaz Dagaz (Dawn Of Fire)
6. Theft Of The Hammer
7. Weaver Of Fate
8. Njord
9. Emblas Saga
10. Brothers Unite
11. One
12. Ride Of The Valkyries
13. To The Skies And Beyond

LINEUP

Ylva Eriksson – Voice of the Valkyries
Joakim Lindbäck Eriksson – Battle Cries
Mats Nilsson – Tongue of the Gods
Dawid Grahn – Guitar
Pähr Nilsson – Guitar
Mikael Fehrm – Guitar
Emil Wärmedal – Bass
Johan Johansson – Anvil and War Drums