In much the same way that Gary Glitter isn’t completely screwed and OJ Simpson was innocent, an original and different release from Falkenbach is about as likely as Saddam Hussein being reinstated as Iraq’s head of state. This would almost universally be a criticism, but as far as this German (although originally Icelandic) Viking metal behemoth goes, it is an exceedingly strong quality indeed. Falkenbach mastermind Vratyas Vakyas consistently excels in producing incredible material capable of transporting the listener back to a time gone by, when longboats ruled the waves and men in silly hats ran about the countryside waving offensive weapons at each other.

With his soaring, Bathory-esque soundscapes, astonishingly catchy keyboard hooks and guitar chord combinations to die for, Vratyas Vakyas has rightfully built up quite a following of loyal fans over his previous three albums. What makes this all the more impressive is that Falkenbach is essentially a one man band, with all music credited to Vratyas Vakyas. As with previous record ‘Ok Nefna Tysvar Ty’ however, three guest musicians in the shape of Boltthorn, Hagalaz and Tyrann have been drafted in to fill out the band.

Considering the epic grandeur of opener ‘Heathen Foray’, an all round traditional Falkenbach track, it should come as no surprise that ‘Heralding: The Fireblade’ was initially written to be Falkenbach’s debut album. The reason given for this 2005 release, fifteen years after the bands inception, is that the original recordings were not of a sufficient quality to be released. As the album progresses however, it becomes clear that this may have been a wise move.

Although a traditional Falkenbach album at heart, ‘Heralding: The Fireblade’ is undoubtedly Falkenbach’s most varied release to date. From the sweeping, epic Viking metal of ‘Heathen Foray’ and ‘Heralder’ to the black metal leanings of ‘Forests Unknown’ and ‘Læknishendr’, this is a sonic journey which should appeal to all echelons of the metal community. The atmosphere created at the outset never fades, and the album flows from Viking ballad, to battle anthem in a seamless continuation.

‘Heralding: The Fireblade’ certainly isn’t breaking any musical boundaries, but it doesn’t need to. When the songwriting is this good, to move on to pastures new simply for the sake of it, could only produce an inferior product. Falkenbach are the very best at what they do and that’s how it looks set to stay for some time yet.

Standout Tracks:  Heathen Foray, Læknishendr, Heralder.