ALBUM REVIEW: King Of The North – Wolfheart
Finnish melodic death metal powerhouse WOLFHEART don’t like to sit still for too long. Since 2017 they have released three albums, an EP and are poised to add to their impressive catalogue with their sixth full-length album King Of The North which is due for release on September 16th via Napalm Records. What do this talented bunch have in store for us this time around?
Skyforger gets the ball rolling with pronounced piano sequences which usher in additional instrumentation. The tempo begins to build gradually, placing layer upon layer as it progresses. Melody meets aggression in seamless companionship, dipping in and out of the spotlight to allow for maximum effectiveness. Ancestor confidently powers onwards with fierce blast beats and commanding vocal bellows. Soaring chorus lines add an anthemic quality to proceedings. The talented pipes of the iconic Jesse Leach work wonders in elevating this track to the next level. Knell is as graceful as it is vicious, keeping you guessing with slick transitions in tone and mood. The orchestration which lurks around the periphery combined with scintillating lead work provides an exhilarating experience.
Desolated Land dives right into the nitty-gritty, hurling waves of savagery in your direction. The stomping, energetic riffing gets your adrenaline flowing. More flamboyant solo flourishes are unleashed. The King continues the formidable stride, mixing alluring hooks with dramatic atmospherics. Cold Flame surges out of the gates with a sudden burst of intensity. The riffing is drenched in enticing grooves and creative flair. It also isn’t afraid to bear its sharp teeth. Gruesome guttural vocals send a shiver down your spine.
Headstones brilliantly meshes subtle acoustic tones with euphoric orchestration and an uplifting vibrancy to further exhibit their dynamic range. Fires Of The Fallen keeps the momentum flowing in full force, reeling off an impressive range of diverse artistry. Eternal Slumber takes a bleak, sombre turn, shrouding the soundscape in darkness before gearing up for one final triumphant voyage.
WOLFHEART have continued to show why they are one of Finland’s hottest commodities throughout the course of their career and King Of The North is no different. The quality shines through in abundance and provides a lot of exciting moments to digest and admire. To be able to cram so many different variables into a composition without it sounding like a complicated mess is no easy feat but this release shows just how well it can be executed.
Rating: 9/10
King Of The North is set for release on September 16th via Napalm Records.
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