Epic metal is a term that’s used for almost anything, it’s a fun one to pick the bones of. These wild Texans come at you with a 9 track debut. For those who crave vinyl, that version is coming later, oh and there will be a cassette version. I have the digital version!

Epic metal has its merits and its limitations, the style is also vast. For the traditionalists who love everything Eternal Champion/Visigoth, then look to the gallop of ‘A Baleful Wind Cries Above the Ziggurat Esoternium’. There may be some interest for those into the Viking metal style by way of Bathory. In particular for this latter comment, ‘Hammers in the Halls of the Deep’ does have that certain “Hammerheart” stance, a bit more barbaric, more evil, less gallop, less over the top keyboards (and my own highlight). ‘A Desperate Plan on the Field of Battle’ a touch too much keyboards for my liking, but it is the main instrument, the Hammond sounds are much more agreeable. Consistency comes from the haunting distance effect of the vocals, these are very heartfelt and decisive. The length of songs and their titles, as you may have gathered also are…epic!

The bands logo depicts a darker style of music, therefore with the majority in the happier spectrum, I’m surprised. Of course, if you don’t take image and symbolism to whet your whistle, then who gives a stuff eh? I’ve listened to this a few times, I get a different feel each time, in truth, I’ve had to “work” hard for this one, my quest bestowed with doubt and endurance. There are some bright moments, I would claim ‘The Witching Blade’ is one such, but it doesn’t hit all the markers to make it that memorable. The opener ‘Cair Vasturhaf: A Flaming Sunset on the Parapets of the King of the Western Sea’ has come flashy guitar work and a great feel, but I’ve found consistency a little disappointing on the album as a whole.   I love that there are gallops and some battle hardened songs, it’s not terrible, but there’s many people doing this.

(6/10 Paul Maddison)

https://ryghar.bandcamp.com/album/thurmecia-eternal