Review by JD on May 10, 2009.

Viking metal is getting big... perhaps too big. I have been hearing many bands coming out and doing this sort of thing. Will Hammer Horde be ones that impress me... or do they go in the average pile like most do and basically disappear from the face of the metal world?

Starting to dive into this band, you first must know that this is a side project that has been put out by members of one of my favourite bands at the moment, A Gruesome Find. As a Death Metal band, AGF are such a stellar band in their own rights... but as those members now try their hand at Viking Metal mixed in with bloodthirsty Death Metal... All I say is to raise a tankard of ale high in the air and toast them all.... This rocks!!

They tell Norse tales like none others around. Just one listen to 'Pierced By Odin's Spear' and the awe inspiring title track... they show great complexity that is delivered with such savageness that you could feel the unrelenting fury of attacking Norsemen as they took towns while slaughtering everyone that stood in their way. You can smell the blood, and hear the screams of all who stand in their way.

Let the Hammer Horde come... party in the long-huts with them and rejoice with song, ale and wenches. This is truly Viking Metal that I more than just like... Being over half Norwegian myself(Mother's Side), I guess that it has touched that part of my soul pretty deeply. Horns up!!

Categorical Rating Breakdown

Musicianship: 8.5
Atmosphere: 8
Production: 8.5
Originality: 8
Overall: 8

Rating: 8.2 out of 10