Formed last year by multi-instrumentalist Niklas Holm, this is mid-paced metal, which I would loosely term “epic”. The music was born out of the love for music such as Hammerheart era Bathory, Manilla Road and US band Warlord. What is presented is an album of stories, the lyrics focus on individual strength by harnessing on what is actually important in the world. These words are depicted as code, the writer is quite clear, let the listener deconstruct in their own mind.

‘Unbreakable Bonds’ is very Manilla Road inspired with the lower register vocal and low scale musicianship. Whilst ‘Mighty Old Star’ heralds a more Bathory-esq feel, of the era mentioned earlier. This is in ambience, in music, the traditional metal comes more than anything directly linked to such heaviness that maybe assumed. Holm uses a tongue roll rather a lot when some words are accented; it can get a little annoying at times I have to say. That aside, with the two tracks mentioned, you already have a good basis for the release, but I would also point out the solo work, that find themselves in perfect melodic harmony with the music and very complimentary. The track ‘Halfway to Heaven’ I swear has a melody and phrasing near exactly to that of Iron Cross’ ‘Mistress of the Dark’ but one thing you can take from this track in particular is the drum work. Drums are played by Micael Zetterberg, and the track has captured his work well in the mix. Of course, there’s a ripping solo, when isn’t there! But with a couple of bum notes here and there, it’s not too perfect in presentation which is a positive quality. I was beginning to think that this album was over-produced.

‘Hidden Enthronement’ picks up the pace; the three bands I mentioned earlier all feature as an influence. The melodic elements are present, especially the emotive vocal line “kill the King and take his crown”. The US metal inspired chugging then completes a hefty slab of what many would expect to hear. ‘My Guarded Home’ gives a real hammering to the listener, I am definitely thinking of Mark Shelton here in style during the verses. That said, the jewel features of Sordid Blade exist in many other areas of the music presented.

This album is very deep and very thoughtful. Overall there is a low-key stance, mainly from the vocals, but there are genuine moments when you think “hell yeah” and thrown a fist pump in the air. This market is very crowded, there are areas that are a touch forgettable, but overall this is a strong release with an excellent piece of cover art. The purists will enjoy this.

(8/10 Paul Maddison)

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https://sordidblade.bandcamp.com/album/every-battle-has-its-glory