Maximum Metal Rating Legend

Thryfing - Farsotstider - 2006 - Candlelight Records

Track Listing1. Far At Helvete 2. Jag Spar Fordarv 3. Farsotstider 4. Host 5. Sjalavrak 6. Elddagjamning 7. Baldersbalet 8. Tiden Laker Intet

Swedish Viking metal really doesn’t get any better than Thryfing. With four albums already under their belt, the sextet has unleashed their best yet with “Farsotstider.” On this album, the band combines the epic glory of groups like Moonsorrow with the harsh assault of fellow countrymen Enslaved and Manegarm to create an extremely unique atmosphere. And unlike some of the aforementioned bands, Thryfing rarely alternate between specific black/folk styles. The music’s black metal attitude prevails in its constant aggression, but this prevailing attitude is wholly compatible with a more sweeping, folk-oriented mood that is present throughout all of the songs.

Although “Farsotstider” really doesn’t contain any lulls in brilliance, there are songs that stand out a bit above the others. The album’s first, “Far At Helvete,” acts as a perfect introductory tracks, with a single guitar riff slowly leading into a full blown assault that is kicked off by some scathing vocals courtesy of Thomas Väänänen. His vocal approach is somewhat similar to that of former Finntroll vocalist Katla – a half scream, half growl. The album’s “folksiest” moment comes at the beginning of “Host,” a slightly slower song which focuses more on traditional melodies, harmonized clean vocals and acoustic instruments than the others. At the same time, however, the harsh Viking feel is never lost. Peter Löf also shines on keyboard here, as his synthetic violin sounds as good as any real fiddle.

As I mentioned before, “Farsotstider” doesn’t have any weak spots. It’s not 100% flawless, but with the exception of a few Moonsorrow albums, Viking metal has never been done so well before. In addition to folk/Viking/pagan metal fans, anyone into black, death, or even thrash metal should check out Thryfing – because if you’re not already a fan of Viking metal, “Farsotstider” will change that.

9/10

--Veritas 02.12.05