Background Info
Amon Amarths fourth release. Medium paced hymns and always with Viking themes. I have read many reviews for this CD in metal magazines and many think that this is Amon Amarth’s best CD. It is definitely one of their best CDs.
An Ancient Sign of Coming Storm
Great opening song, it sets the pace for the rest of the CD. The guitar theme is very nicely put together with Johan’s deep growls. I must also say, through this entire CD the thing that impressed me a lot is how nice all the instruments sound especially the bass drum. 5/5
Where Death Seems to Dwell
I enjoy the lyrics for this song, since they are about a mans hellish struggles, but the song starts up too late. For the first minutes it is very slow and gets quite boring after a while. If you have the patience though, the end of the song is worth the wait. 3/5
The Fate of Norns
One of the best songs on the CD. Keeps you hooked on it through all six minutes of it. The guitars play great melodies and the drumming and bass are decent. Johan offers a wider range of vocals on this song than on any other song. 5/5
Pursuit Of Viking
A great song, very epic at times. I liked the guitar so much on this song I tabbed it out for myself so I could play it. This song never gets boring no matter how many times you listen to it. Everything about this song kicks ***.
5/5
Valkyries Ride
I don't like this song much, I don't know why. It is very much like must of the other songs on this CD. The problem is it's too mediocre; nothing really sticks out in this song. 3/5
The Beheading of a King
A short song but very enjoyable at all times. Probably the fastest song on the CD it explores the classic viking theme of battle. It tells the real story of the Danish king who tried to tax the Vikings and ended up losing his head. 5/5
Arson
This song is good through most of its duration. It goes by relatively fast even though it is pretty long. There are some nice guitar harmonies towards the end. Johan vocals are pretty good too. 4/5
Once Sealed in Blood
A good way to end the CD. It has all the elements from the 8 songs and wraps them into one song. The drumming is very nice, along with some good guitar riffs, this song is a very solid way to end the album. 3.75/5
In overall, this album is great, for any fans of In Flames and At The Gates, I recommend you get this. A solid CD.
