Review BY Glen Parkes
Brothers of Metal return with their third studio album, Fimbulvinter, set for release on November 1, 2024, and once again, the Swedish metal warriors deliver an epic blend of mythological grandeur and heavy metal might. Known for their powerful tributes to Norse gods and legends, Brothers of Metal have crafted an album that feels both grand in scale and tight in execution, showing off the band’s evolution since their debut.
The album kicks off with “Sowilo,” immediately drawing listeners into a world where thunderous riffs and pounding drums meet the mystical power of ancient runes. Ylva Eriksson’s soaring vocals shine throughout, offering a melodic contrast to the growling war cries of Joakim Lindbäck Eriksson and Mats Nilsson. Together, the three vocalists weave intricate harmonies and battle chants that add a cinematic layer to each track.
“Flight of the Ravens” is an early standout, with its relentless energy and infectious chorus. The twin guitar attack from Dawid Grahn and Pähr Nilsson delivers crushing riffs and soaring solos, while Johan Johansson’s drums provide a thunderous backbone to the track. Songs like “Giantslayer” and “Heart of Stone” maintain this momentum, offering a mix of galloping rhythms and powerful storytelling that pay homage to Viking lore.
As the album progresses, Fimbulvinter showcases its versatility. “Rivers of Gold” and “Blood Red Sky” bring a more atmospheric tone, with Eriksson’s ethereal voice leading the charge. Emil Wärmedal’s basslines add depth to the mix, grounding the sprawling compositions and giving the album a sense of weight that complements its larger-than-life themes. Meanwhile, “Heavy Metal Viking” is an anthem that will surely become a fan favorite in live shows, with its driving beat and triumphant lyrics.
One of the album’s most compelling moments comes in the form of “The Other Son of Odin,” where the band dives deep into Norse mythology, bringing the tale to life through an intense musical backdrop. The album’s title track, “Fimbulvinter,” closes things out on a high note, merging all the elements that make Brothers of Metal stand out—heroic storytelling, dynamic vocals, and crushing instrumentation.
Produced by Erik Berglund, Fimbulvinter is a cohesive and polished album, with every member of the band bringing their A-game. From the meticulously layered guitars to the commanding drum work, there’s a synergy here that elevates the album above just a collection of songs—this is a true metal saga.
Fimbulvinter is a triumph for Brothers of Metal, perfectly blending their trademark Norse-inspired storytelling with a thunderous heavy metal assault. With tracks that will shake the very halls of Valhalla, the album is sure to resonate with both longtime fans and newcomers alike. As the band embarks on their European tour, Fimbulvinter will undoubtedly serve as the rallying cry for metalheads across the continent.
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