Equilibrium - Sagas (2008)

I first became aware of the German band known as Equilibrium back in 2003 when the band sent me their demo for review on the old Lunar Hypnosis webzine. Unfortunatey, I made the mistake of forgetting about these guys after that early encounter and didn't become aware of them again until sometime earlier this year when I picked this album up.

These five Germans rely heavily on synthesizers to create epic sounding folk metal that at least to me sounds like a more serious version of Finntroll. The synths are indeed the dominating instrument on this lengthy (playing time 79 min) release since they are constantly used to create folky melodies as well as majestic classical passages within their frantic metal sound.

The guitar work is (at times) largely buried under the synths, but there are some cool riffs present and there are a few colorful solos that sneak through too. The best example of the band pulling off a great song that combines their heavy synth sound with decent guitar work would be the sixth song, 'Snüffel,' which is also my personal fav on this beast.

Helge's vocals are sort of what brings this album done a peg though as its very straightforward fast paced troll-ish screams, which hardly differ other than the occasional usage of some low growls, but perhaps if some clean vocals had been used and since the bass player is female it might have been worth a shot to give her an opportunity at the mic too.

Nevertheless, there are some great songs on this release. The aforementioned, 'Snüffel' kicks much ass as well songs like, 'Blut Im Auge,'Unbesiegt' and 'Die Weide Und Der Fluß' are all highlights too. I think what prevents me from totally enjoying this stuff though is simply because when it comes to folk metal I've moved onto enjoying the bands that actually use real folk instruments in there music, such as; Nokturnal Mortum, Illbeltz and Metsatöll. For some reason those Finntroll-ish folky synth melodies just don't hit home like they used to.

However, you know your own personal tastes more so than me. If heavily synth based semi-melodic epic heavy metal is your thing then definitely give this record a shot. It might just floor ya.