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TÝR
Valkyrja

Metal Blade (2013)
Rating: 9/10

Týr is one of the most interesting bands to come on the metal scene in the last decade. Hailing from the Faroe Islands, this Viking metal band has been releasing increasingly astounding music since their 2002 debut How Far To Asgaard.

In that time pagan and Viking metal bands have become a driving force in the modern landscape of the kingdom of heavy metal. Týr is such a jewel in the crown of the metal realm because the music is not content to fit into a particular subgenre. Valkyrja is no exception, mixing Viking themes, folk melodies and classic power metal guitar lines to create a strong album.

Very few albums grab me with intensity from the first notes. Valkyrja manages to do just that. ‘Blood Of Heroes’ brings high energy and a sense of urgency from the first sound to bless the listener’s ears. An intro of strong drums and dueling guitars leads to the deep, clear vocals of Heri Joensen. You’ll hear none of the death metal growling that has become common among other pagan metal bands, just Joensen’s rich, full voice.

By the chorus session drummer George Kollias is pounding his bass drum to make Manowar proud. The clear mix allows each instrument room to be heard, partially due to the uncluttered arrangement of these songs. Rather than bring in a bevy of traditional folk instruments like many of their contemporaries, Týr relies on the tried and true heavy metal formula of two guitars, bass, drums and vocals. ‘Blood Of Heroes’ is ample evidence that these are enough to provide a strong performance that emphasizes the “metal” in pagan metal.

It’s hard to name the highlights on an album as consistent as Valkyrja. ‘Mare Of My Night’ can’t be forgotten for its driving chorus, which boasts some of the tightest backing vocals my ears have enjoyed. Similarly, ‘Hell Hath No Fury’ has a hook that sinks deep, mixing power metal rhythms with a folksy melody that brings to mind a band of rowdy pirates… or maybe Vikings?

‘Lady Of The Slain’ breaks from the band’s generally mid-tempo pace to offer fast paced riffing that points directly to a power metal influence. All of these songs are well written and flawlessly executed. There is a power on Valkyrja that doesn’t rely on speed or gimmicks, but is built on the firm foundation of classic heavy metal.

There are a few surprises to be found on this release. ‘The Lay Of Our Love’ includes guest vocals from the always amazing Liv Kristine, known for her work with Leaves’ Eyes and Theatre Of Tragedy. Her duet with Joensen on this muscular ballad is outstanding. These two unique voices create powerful harmonies that must be heard to be believed.

Other surpises include two covers, the Iron Maiden classic ‘Where Eagles Dare’ and Pantera’s ‘Cemetery Gates’. Covering Maiden seems fitting given the obvious power metal influence on Týr’s music. Both songs are fairly straightforward covers, given enough of a Týr flavour to sit well with the other songs offered on Valkyrja. Whether working on their own music or paying tribute to their influences, Týr brings the metal in a unique and wholly enjoyable way.

Týr is what the pagan metal community needs to break into the metal mainstream. Don’t get me wrong, I’m a big fan of pagan metal, but sometimes amidst all the pipes, hurdy gurdys and lutes I rather miss good old fashioned heavy metal. Valkyrja bridges the gap between metal and one of its most interesting subgenres, and Týr has offered one of the best releases I have heard this year. Rather than stick to a corner of the metal realm, Týr has created an album that’s best described as damn good metal.

Jim McDonald

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