December 3, 2010

Reviewer: Peter

Imagine a Pagan metal band that relies heavily on the mouth harp and strong vocals that could rival any European band.  Now, what if I told you that this band was actually from Mexico?  This is the reality that falls upon the Mexican band Ulveheim, who play pagan-inspired folk metal.  Their debut album Frå Ulveheim could easily be mistaken for any European band’s effort, even after a few listens.

Beginning with the opening track “Ulvekrigerne,” it is clear that Ulveheim has paid attention to the better folk/Viking metal bands because the band has the mannerisms in the music down pat.  This is more evident on “Av Blod og Stål,” which showcases the clean Viking vocals and guitars that replicate the folk sound without the need for folk instruments.  Throw in the harsh vocals and Ulveheim has everything necessary to make a long term impact.  On “Slaget ved Fjellane,” the mouth harp begins to be a prominent element in the Ulveheim sound, along with hints of acoustic guitar, and both elements are also heard on “Til Segeren.”  The harsh vocals are at their best here, as it seems this song is where Ulveheim begins to build more on their sound.  Throughout the album, other than the mouth harp and the occasional acoustic guitar, Ulveheim relies heavily on the guitar riffs to create a Viking metal sound that few can replicate, even with the traditional folk instruments.  There aren’t too many faults with Frå Ulveheim, as the band manages to pull off the folk/Viking style of music seamlessly and with much conviction.

At over an hour, Frå Ulveheim is a lot to take in for a debut album.  However, Ulveheim is far from a typical Viking metal band, and that goes beyond their place of origin, as they have learned from the best in the genre and have applied those lessons to their music.  Fans of Moonsorrow and Nomans Land should pick up Frå Ulveheim, as it is a solid album from beginning to end. 

Release Date: May, 2010
Label: Ovis Records

TRACK LISTING

1.  Ulvekrigerne
2.  Av Blod og Stål
3.  Slaget ved Fjellane
4.  Svik
5.  Hammeren mot Korset
6.  Til Segeren
7.  Kongens Siste Ferd
8.  Ein Hyllest til dei Falne men
9.  For Ære Heder og Fedreland
10.  Det Store Slaget
11.  Sigerskvadet
12.  Heimferd

Total playing time:  01:04:42

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Ulveheim - Frå Ulveheim