Resistance has nicely packaged this release it a simple and well-done digipak. I understand Resistance’s reasons for wanting to put a foot in the Black Metal underground – there’s a chance it will make the WP scene more extreme – but while they’re treating it like a deus ex machina of sorts, what does the rest of the WP scene think of it, and how will it actually affect them? Time will tell I guess…

Even though their lyrics are printed in English, Honor sing in Polish. I’ve never heard this band before, but believe me when I say I’ll be tracking down every last release of theirs immediately. Musically, it’s heavy and VERY epic metal with a distinct folk influence in the riffs. The vocals are sung in a throaty, deeper style, but they work absolutely perfectly with the epic riffs and light background keyboards. INCREDIBLY POWERFUL (and catchy/technical/simply great!) STUFF! Really! The closer “Thousand Years Bonds” is an acoustic/keyboard ballad that leaves chills up your spine it’s so well done.

Graveland strike back with three songs here, and they’re slightly harsher and more Black Metal then the uninteresting “Immortal Pride”. Fans of “1000 Swords” and especially “Following the Voice of Blood” will enjoy the new tracks immensely. “Blacksmiths of Destiny” is especially good as it has those deep keyboards from “Following…” combined with some killer, atmospheric riffing. “Into Death’s Arms” starts out grim, but then breaks off into Bathory style chanting before falling back into a distinct Graveland style. Good to see you back in proper form Mr. Darken.

Without a doubt this is an exceptional disc, and is very much worth owning.

Resistance Records
P.O. Box 67
Hillboro, WV 24946
USA

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