Already, this year has proven to be quite bountiful for many different corners of the metal world with virtually every style being given extreme justice on a scale that is simply magnificent to behold. In particular, folk metal is having a damn good run the likes of which we haven't seen in some time. So much of the folk metal that we've seen has already shown us just how alive the sound still very much is with practically every given layer of the style being done to tremendous effect. I thought it was with the likes of Korpiklaani that the biggest name for folk metal would come around, but it was with the announcement of Týr's forthcoming effort that another longstanding champion of folk metal entered the fray. Despite shaking things up a little bit, it's clear that Týr has yet to lose an ounce of their power.
Having put out a live album, "A Night at the Nordic House", two years ago, I think it would be safe to say that many of us expected Týr to get back on track for a new record that would continue the band's trademark sound of folk metal with more than a few progressive cues thrown in for good measure. However, the live album had a profound impact on the band's creative process as a whole to such a degree that "Battle Ballads" takes several turns in the direction of enhancing Týr's sound with that of classical excellence. Whereas some will surely be a little sadden to see Týr shedding some of their more progressive tendencies, it is quickly made up by the inclusion of those classical elements that really allow the folk metal on display here to become grandiose, rich in detail, and downright moving as the riffs and immense melodies do their work immediately. The magic of Týr has yet to wane over the years with their overarching glory and undeniable presence that only brings further glory alongside their magnetic charm that has always made Týr a force to be reckoned with. It's a step in an ever so slightly different direction, but Týr makes "Battle Ballads" work from start to finish without exception to not just continue their streak of dominance over the sound, but simultaneously shows us that they still have plenty more tricks up their sleeves to show us.
We've been utterly spoiled in 2024 when it comes to what folk metal has been able to bring to the table with what Týr has done here a true sweetener the likes of which immediately slaps a smile on the face. They could have gone in any direction they damn well pleased with this record given all that they've accomplished before with every given facet of "Battle Ballads" doing nothing but supreme justice for this particular kind of folk metal that can often feel as though it's wrongfully looked down upon. Where many have tried, Týr yet again reigns unchallenged.
"Battle Ballads" releases on April 12th via Metal Blade Records!
LISTEN to singles from "Battle Ballads" on Bandcamp here.
LIKE Týr on Facebook here.
No comments:
Post a Comment