Tuesday, May 10, 2011

Amon Amarth - Surtur Rising (2011)


After 2 and a half years of waiting, the viking metal gods, Amon Amarth, are back with another explosive album, entitled "Surtur Rising." This is the Swedish death metallers' 8th studio album. Just looking at the album cover, you can already tell what is about to be thrown at you. Everything from vikings with swords to fiery flames and volcanic death! True epic pagan metal delivered in the heaviest way possible.

To start this epic adventure, the album begins with a violent opener entitled "War Of The Gods." It's packed with quick double bass pedals and viscous guitar solos that are both melodic and catchy. You will also find the riffs during the chorus to be irresistibly addicting and they run through your head for hours on end.

"Destroyer Of The Universe" is another magnificent song that is full of deep rocky growling. There is also a very catchy refrain accompanied by wicked roaring and incredible blast beat drumming. This is followed by an impressive melodic solo ripping up and down the scales. Johan Hegg also shows off his deep, monstrous growling in "Slaves Of Fear" and "The Last Stand Of Fire." They are full of passion and violent emotion giving off so much feeling from the album.

Also, "Wrath Of The Norsemen" has deathly breakdowns that will have you rocking your head and throwing up your metal horns. The only issue I have with this song is that it is 3 minutes and 44 seconds too short. being such a powerful song it would nice if it was a few minutes longer. Not to worry though, the repeat button fixes this problem. You will find your self hitting this button more than once, that's for sure.

There is also a special treat that is incorporated with "Surtur Rising." If you buy the album Amon Amarth offers you a free download of their version of System Of A Down's "Aerials." I must say, they really take the cake with this electrifying cover. The instruments are right on point. As for the vocals, If they don't make you shit yourself, I don't know what will. Hegg's growls are deafening and full of rage. This is one cover song you won't want to miss!

Amon Amarth has shown that they can, and will, continue to do what they do best, and that is to make epic viking metal. They somehow manage to out do themselves with each and every album. "Surtur Rising" is everything expected by them and even more. For victory or for death!

9/10

Official Site - http://www.amonamarth.com/
Myspace - http://www.myspace.com/amonamarth

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