SIG:AR:TYR - Beyond the North Winds (2008)

It goes without saying that Bathory's viking era of albums are among some of the most influential records ever conceived. I think its safe to say that if albums like, 'Hammerheart' or 'Twilight of the Gods' had never been created then its fairly likely to say that some of my favorite bands, such as; Moonsorrow, Enslaved or Falkenbach would have never existed.

SIG:AR:TYR, which is lead by its sole member, Daemonskald from Ontario, Canada is another example of a band drawing a great deal of influence from those old Bathory records and even Quorthon's final two Nordland releases.

'Beyond the North Winds,' the bands second album is a journey through expansive heathen lands that exudes an incredible atmosphere that's both somber, dark, heroic and optimistic pretty much all at once. The keyboards remain as a backing instrument throughout the entire record, but it works fine as it keeps the atmosphere rich and constantly interesting, while tons of acoustic passages merge with epic rhythmic electric guitar parts as well as some stunning solos which just soar and take your soul to a whole new level of being. As well, Daemonskald sings with a powerful and majestic clean voice, that's similar to Quorthon's, but surely more refined. Additionally some whispers are used, which adds a sort of mysterious quality to the music and some raspy black-ish metal vocals make an appearance too.

The lyrics center around Heathenism and Norse Mythology, which to me is always interesting to hear regardless of how many bands are doing it these days. Other notable things to mention is that the songs may at times seem to drag a little or become a little repetitive, but the feeling of something grand is always there. The production is always crisp and allows everything that Daemonskald has to offer come through cleanly.

In the end the Bathory influence is clear, but I think SIG:AR:TYR also draws influence from acts like Primordial, Enslaved and Falkenbach to form something that is definitely his own. As such, 'Beyond the North Winds' is definitely recommend to all you Heathen metal warriors our there or at least those that just appreciate rich atmospheric metal music.