ALBUM REVIEW: From Dark Waters – Rämlord

Following on the release of two singles and a mini LP, Finnish metallers RÄMLORD have produced their maiden full-length album From Dark Waters. The record marks the end of the band’s origins from their very first works, and the start of a new era with new vocalist Timo Salmenkivi who joined RÄMLORD in 2018.

To begin proceedings is Love of the Damned; straight from the very first second you have that classic heavy metal sound, with a strong and catchy opening riff which transports you back to the 80’s. The vocals follow not too long after, accompanied by synths to add a modern twist on the sound, leading then into the chorus which really gets you moving, and is a solid opening track.

The title track follows next, which starts off a tad slower compared to the opener. The intro is also more substantial in terms of the length and the number of components all coming together at once, building up gradually until the guitars fade and Salmenkivi‘s vocals take the forefront. This one is certainly much more of a metal ballad than a skull crushing riff fest, but as the title track is usually the focal point of any album it makes sense and certainly is an early highlight.

The modern twist which has been added to RÄMLORD’S style comes into play again later on in the record with Chained God. The electro sounds feature in the intro and again throughout the duration of the track, and add an extra dimension to the band’s sound. In terms of this particular song, it goes down a similar route to the title track and has a ballad-esque feel to it, though there are certainly enough heavy metal elements to keep you entertained.

If it’s full on heavy metal that you want, then RÄMLORD have you covered with two tracks in particular – Hell Is Here and Now and Non Serviam. Starting with the former, there is so much energy from the opening second and the riffs are hard and fast to keep things ticking over. You can hear the energy in Salmenkivi‘s vocals as well which make it very enjoyable to listen to. As for the latter, the pace isn’t as hardcore but the riffs are just as heavy and there’s enough to get you headbanging along.

To compare RÄMLORD to anyone from the heavy metal pantheon, one band that they really liken themselves to is BLACK SABBATH, even down to their vocalist who has got elements of OZZY in his delivery. It isn’t a record which is balls to the wall from the get go, but nonetheless From Dark Waters is a strong effort from the band and a great way for them to introduce themselves onto the world of heavy metal.

Rating 8/10

From Dark Waters is out now via Inverse Records.

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