Review by Jack on March 4, 2004.

While Windir will not win the accolade of being the most unique or groundbreaking metal act in the last few years, they have to be certain to rank amongst the top names in terms of adrenaline and tenacity.

Catchy hooks, driving drums and a particular acidic black rasp are the order of the day with Windir's "Likferd," and they do not let up for the duration of the record. To break things up a bit Windir incorporate some soaring keyboard melodies and folk inspired pieces that are introduced intermittently across "Likferd" to provide a bit of substance to an already impressive black metal outing.

Of special note is the track 'Blodssvik' which is -the- example of what black metal can be like. Not the dreary and drab 'true' Norwegian style or the rather camp symphonic black metal, but rather galloping riffs and thunderous drums providing a majestic tapestry for vocalist Valfar to wield his considerable vocal talent. This is one song that is a mandatory head-banger. \m/.

There isn't a lot more to say about "Likferd" really. If you like black metal you will definitely find some solace with Windir's "Likferd." Here simplicity reigns supreme. Windir have not overdone any feature of "Likferd." Everything has come together perfectly on "Likferd" and hopefully this record will get the recognition it deserves.

A fine black metal record with enough energy and atmosphere to keep you rocking on until the wee hours of the morn. "Likferd" should elevate Windir into the upper peaks of the black metal underground.

R.I.P. Valfar

Rating: 8 out of 10

Review by JD on September 26, 2010.

I have a soft spot for bands that just do what they do clearly for the pure fun and enjoyment of it. Don’t get me wrong, I love bands that have a strong social consciousness or political leanings and even when they have some sort of agenda but I started in bands based upon the commandments of sex, drugs and Rock ’n’ Roll - exactly what metal was founded on. ‘Fun’ simply consolidated all of that into one term... my favourite three letter word (except for the ‘S’ word).

Brazilian three piece Prellude are a throwback to metal’s more simpler times. Straight ahead and uncomplicated, this band reminds me both in power and simpleness that metal use to be. Shades of Motorhead, NWOBHM stalwarts Raven and some early hints of the whole Punk/Metal crossover also comes through ( something like D.R.I and early C.O.C as well). Simple, yet effective.

The two drawbacks are that the entire lyrics are in Brazilian, and the production kills the power I know this trio has. The latter really is disturbing, as the whole album loses much of its punch, and comes across as almost nonprofessional. Having a proper producer and a good studio to work in would be the place where Prellude could vanquish the bad sound an obtain greatness. The language thing poses only a small problem... but is not the glaring problem.

Prellude is just fun, and that is it. They are not going to be the next thing in metal, they are enjoyable to hear and would be easily forgotten soon after. With the right recording and better direction, they might be seen in better light than just being a cheese filled trip into metal’s history. Right now, that is all it is - cheesy -(and not the good kind either).

Categorical Rating Breakdown

Musicianship: 8
Atmosphere: 6
Production: 4
Originality: 5
Overall: 5.5

Rating: 5.7 out of 10