(Napalm Records)

Release Date: 2010
Origin: Denmark

Svartsot return with their second album, after 2007’s debut “Ravnenes Saga”. The Danish folk metal band that was formed in 2005, managed to sign a contract with Napalm Records for their debut, as well as for this new work. Let’s see what they have to offer 3 years after their first effort and with a completely new line-up, since guitarist Cris J.S. Frederiksen is the only remaining member!

Those of you who have listened to them before, you know what to expect. Very well produced folksy death metal, where epic rhythmic riffs and brutal vocals are mixed with traditional tunes and instruments (mainly flutes and whistles). The orchestrations are rich and solid and Svartsot seemed to have whatever it takes for a very good work… Besides, they had already proved they are good at what they do with their amazing debut. It is true though that they haven’t moved forward since then. I see some repetition and a lack of freshness in their music. …And it’s only their second work. Of course the genre is overcrowded, but there is always place for something new. I expected something better from them, based on the very positive impression their first work left me. The new vocals are somehow more monotonous (not many black metal elements and choirs this time) while the folk melodies are more typical, without the originality of “Ravnenes Saga”. On the other hand they have improved their production and their sound is very professional, clear and powerful. There is definitely a lot of work behind this release. Lyrics are in their native language dealing with Viking themes and “tavern” tales.

Despite the “complaints” I made above, “Mulmets Viser” is a good album that most folk metal fans will enjoy and definitely the best folk Danish band around so far. They have a great mainstream sound with many nice melodies and their 12 songs last for 50 minutes. It is also released in a limited digipak version with two bonus tracks. You can listen to their new songs here: http://www.myspace.com/svartsot

dimiarch