ensiferum ensiferum (re release)

Released: 06 April 2009 Label: Spinefarm UK

Although other higher profile acts may have claimed the 'Battle Metal' tag as their own, with a history dating back to 1995, Finnish metallers Ensiferum can, with more justification than most, claim to be at the forefront of the genre.
 
As if to prove the point, Spinefarm UK have seen fit to re-release this, their debut album from 2001. Although perhaps not as polished and well-defined as their later work, it is still sounding mighty fine and is undoubtedly a must-have for any fan of Folk / Viking Metal.
 
Less overtly proggy than Týr and less gimmicky than Turisas, Ensiferum are unrelentingly heavy while maintaining a melodic edge, thanks in no small part to the tasteful and understated use of traditional folk instrumentation and arrangements, as evidenced on one of the stand out tracks Abandoned.

Elsewhere, twin guitar harmonies interact powerfully with a galloping rhythm section and vocals that range from almost black metal in style to clean, evocative and folk-influenced melodies, bringing an expansive and cinematic aura to the music. In places, such as the brooding Eternal Wait the band stray into Moonsorrow territory with great effect, but it is on the epic two-part Vainamoinen that Ensiferum really excel and display all the traits that have rightly established them as one of the leading lights in their chosen genre.
 
Call it Viking Metal, Folk Metal, Battle Metal; call it whatever you like. The key word is metal and that is exactly what Ensiferum deliver in abundance. Grab a beer. Bang your head. Sorted.

by Marcus Jervis