By: AvNatten

Posted: Apr 25, 2006

The Faroe Islands which are located in the Atlantic Ocean between the great lands of Scotland and Norway have a rich amount of Viking history and lore and it is no surprise that a band such as Tyr has emerged from such a seemingly mystical place. Of course it is no surprise that Tyr draw the inspiration for their lyrics which are sang partially in English and partially in Faroese from the heroics and battles that are contained within northen mythology and folktales, after all the band named themselves after the bravest of the northern gods. "Eric The Red" is a re-release, it originally debuted in 2003 when it was released by a record company known as Tutl. Since then Napalm Records have signed the band and have re-released "Eric The Red" with new artwork and two bonus tracks.

Tyr craft their songs by mixing together metal with folk sensibilities and even a hint of progressive rock at times, these elements combined create a fresh yet archaic sound that will transport you back to the glory days of the Vikings. Especially on tracks like 'Regin Smidur' with its catchy chorus seemingly sung by a Viking choir. The band also cover the old Irish traditional song 'The Wild Rover' and the traditional Danish song 'Ramund Hin Unge' and do a fine job of it. You can picture these songs being performed in a dusty smoke filled tavern of olden days.

Vocalist Heri Joensen sings loud and clear, his voice is the perfect compliment for these songs and melodies. Judging from his voice alone one gets the impression he had a great time while working on this recording because his voice has a youthful spirit within it that carries it far and wide. The guitars are an array of swirling folk melodies, crunchy riffing, and great solos. 'Alive' has some exceptionally great guitar work and vocals that feel a bit haunting during the mellow breakdown. The drums are powerful yet held back enough that they do not overpower the music and provide a solid base, the bass is a bit buried in the mix at times but it does rear its head to let forth thick rumblings, especially in the more mellow parts and in the track 'Eric The Red'. Most songs go over the five minute mark so there is ample time to let Tyr's musical magic soak into you.

Fans of Viking metal and lore should definitely get their hands on a copy of this, others as well may be able to get into the catchy choruses and hooks that are implanted within these tracks. Tyr has created a noble musical offering to the old gods with "Eric The Red" and hopefully many more albums will follow. Their upcoming album is slated for a September release, if you are a fan of folk metal you will anxiously be awaiting this release but in the meantime check out "Eric The Red" if you haven't already!

Rating: 9½/10

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