After releasing the album 'Grime vs. Grandeur' in 2005 I lost a little interest in the band. The album was harder, heavier and more mainstream but less folky. I also missed the voice of Mathias Blad. I was very happy that the album 'Northwind' saw the return of Mathias and that the band returned to the more folky and epic metal. Looking back and listening to this new record, I must say that perhaps the album 'Grime vs. Grandeur' has been a good thing for the band, because the guitars have a little more crunch.
The new songs have again a lot folky influences, but also more heaviness in them. Of course the singing of Mathias is once more heavenly. The first song "Field of Sorrow" has the recognizable galloping riffs and the melodies we know from Falconer. Halfway through the song has a easy folky listening part, where you really can enjoy Mathias' excellent voice.
"A Beggar Hero" is a balladesk song with a duet between Mathias and a female. The epic song "Mountain Man" has a very contagious melody and some nice choir singing and again the female singing comes along. In the Swedish songs: "Viddernas Man" and "Skula, Skorpa, Skalk" you hear Mathias at his best. Singing in his native language is the most natural thing for him.
What make Falconer different from most of their colleges in power metal are their folky influences together with the choirs and the very impressing vocals. Also the little heavier, less cheesier sound combined with the ability to write good songs make this their best album yet!
When you buy the album, get the limited edition, this one includes two extra tracks and a exclusive video-track.
