I have a tendency to forget how good Adorned Brood actually are. Perhaps there is something about their image that makes it very hard to shake of the initial impression of them being a very German two-bit gimmick band – all cheesy grins and chainmail, but once you do get past it the music really does speak for itself. This is the third album I’ve reviewed from this lot now and all have been of a high quality, and the good thing is I didn’t have unrealistically high expectations for this album and was thus in no way disappointed.
The first track simply titled ‘Intro’ leads you down an enchanted woodland path and brings us in gently and with a sense of wonder, before ‘Hammerfeste’ breaks in with fierce battering drums and a formidable shout. There’s definitely a strong black metal backbone to their sound that keeps things nice and heavy and should I say grounded which is a failing of a number of “battle” themed metal bands who rely too heavily on gimmickry without having a particularly well defined sound. The vocals are a ferocious rasp, although one aspect I really do like with this band is the inclusion of incredibly powerful and epic clean vocals which really make the choruses stand out. ‘Pagan Knights’ is one that has a really proud chorus, all poised for battle with sword held high and best foot forward, while the gang shouts on ‘Hammerfeste’ are really fierce and work well as a precursor to the following clean vocals that are really passionate.
There are some jaunty folk-laden melodies scattered within the mix too, with the flute the main weapon of choice and it really does work well in my opinion. ‘Death In Disguise’ has a hey-nonny-nonny vibe to it with its flighty rhythms. As I’ve probably said with previous releases there is a sea-faring flavour to their sound as well, and it’s easy to imagine a pirate ship raging through fierce waters getting battered by heavy downpours and lightning. ‘Kaperfahrt’ seems to sway from side to side and it’s enough to make a landlubber seasick. All in all this is another enjoyable romp from the Brood. I like the folk elements here as they add colour without sounding too over the top or too frilly – musically managing to stay heavy throughout. This comes highly recommended if you like Turisas, Ensiferum et al. A band I’m sure will continue to go from strength to strength, well unless Nuclear Blast get their hands on them, that is…
http://www.myspace.com/adornedbroodde
