DoomSword
The Eternal Battle
Rating
Style: Traditional (Epic) metal
Release date: 28 February, 2011
Playing time: 43:11
 

Deathmaster of Doomsword has one of the most unique voices in metal, and it's the first thing thing you think of when someone mentions the band. So the first time I listened to this album, I was like "What the hell?" Deathmaster's vocals are a lot more gruff, with his previous vocal style relegated more to back-up support. A major disappointment.

However, as I listened to the album again (and again and again), I eventually was able to move past it. The gruff vocals are still good, and the interjected "old" vocals appear at all of the right spots. He's still able to bring some cool melodies, even if they're a bit more muted than before.

Musically, the album is very good, though it lacks the standout tracks that seemed to put My Name Will Live On in the upper class of traditional metal. It's remarkably consistent though, and there's beauty in the subtlety. It's got a slower, smooth pace to it and tracks like "Song of the Black Sword" and "Warlife" have some excellent riffs on them.

I suppose the best way I can put it is that the sum of the parts is greater than the whole. When I listen to My Name Will Live On, I jump around a bit, but this album I want to listen to it from front to back. Every track brings something to the table. Doomsword fans are probably going to scoff at this one a bit on first listen, but if you give it a chance, it will reward you. And if this is your first foray into Doomsword, it should provide the gateway to check out their older stuff (which is well worth doing).


Tracklist

01. Varusschlacht (Varus Battle)
02.
Eternal Battle
03.
Wrath of the Gods
04.
Soldier of Fortune
05.
Battle at the End of Time
06.
The Fulminant
07.
Song of the Black Sword
08.
The Time Has Come
09.
Warlife

Label: Dragonheart Records
Distribution: Metal Blade
Artwork rating: 36/100
Reviewed by: The Rev
Date: 24 February, 2011
Website: www.doomsword.it