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Gwydion: Horn Triskelion

Melodic Black/Folk/Viking Metal

Rating: 4.0/5.0

SMP/Trollzorn Records
www.myspace.com/gwydionmetal
www.gwydion.org
Review: Craig Hartranft,  04.04.2010

The extent of how heavy metal, in its various genres, has become an international phenomen continues to amaze me. When I thought I've heard every variation, along comes Portugal's Gwydion playing mixture of black, folk, and viking metal on their latest Horn Triskelion, something more often reserved for bands from Scandinavia. Reminscent of a blend of Tyr and Dimmu Borgir, Gwydion's music is epic and bombastic thanks to generous of symphonic and power metal elements. Layers of keyboards swell the arrangemnts while a hearty rythym section keeps the pace true and generous fret work gives modest sizzle on most songs.

The vocals are typical leaning often to growling death vocals, or simple guttural singing. The vocals are generally bearable, but do become monotonous after awhile. (For some reason, I can't imagine the original Vikings would find this style appealing). For clarity, atmosphere, and added beauty over regular harshness, female accompaniment from Isabel Cristina (Inasanie) and Celia Ramos (Mons Lvnae) makes a song like Offiussa and Terror of the Northern majestic and compelling. Throughout Horn Triskelion, Gwydion displays acumen and creativity which translates this work into one of the best in the field of viking/folk metal. Horn Triskelion is a fine accomplishment.

Note: All Amazon advertising in this review first benefits the artist, then Craig Hartranft also receives a residual. Click, and thanks for your support.

Throughout Horn Triskelion, Gwydion displays acumen and creativity which translates this work into one of the best in the field of viking/folk metal. Horn Triskelion is a fine accomplishment.

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Here's a fun fact about Swiss legends, Gotthard: their last 16 releases, excepting their debut album, went to number one in their home country, making them one of Switzerland's most successful acts and ... [ Read More ]