Review by Adam on January 6, 2005.

This is why I listen to metal! Whenever I see an album cover with a dragon on it I know that I am in for some fun. However, what lies on Sword’s Song isn’t that of your normal run of the mill power metal act, but rather one of the most original and entertaining bands in fantasy metal today. ‘Tis time to gather ye weapons and prepare for battle!

Battlelore is like a bridge between Viking metal and traditional metal. If you have a taste for epic music, then they shall feed it. Kaisa Jouhki beautifully accompanies the Viking vocals supplied by Patrik Mennander. Jouhki really knows how to deliver a hook and this record is filled with them. My favorite thing about Sword’s Song is that the songs are extremely tight and relatively short. They do not bombard the listener with overblown complexity or technicality. Battlelore let the melodies do the talking.

Sword’s Song is an absolutely enthralling record. It is neither too heavy nor too soft; rather, it blends the two impeccably. The lyrics are sure to invoke your true inner warrior with titles such as “Attack of the Orgs” and “Horns of Gondor.” Battlelore encompass everything I love about epic fantasy metal. Even if what I have been saying doesn’t appeal to you, I urge you to throw away any preconceptions that you may have and give them a try. Simply put, Battlelore own!

Categorical Rating Breakdown

Musicianship: 7
Atmosphere: 10
Production: 9
Originality: 8
Overall: 8

Rating: 8 out of 10