Ensiferum

Unsung Heroes (Spinefarm)

Given a moniker that translates out of Latin as “sword bearer,” you know what to expect from Helsinki’s Ensiferum: majestic, chest-beating black metal at a gallop. “Retribution Shall Be Mine” and “In My Sword I Trust” set new standards for blazing braggadocio, but Ensiferum also incorporates native folk music into its anthemry (“Pohjola,” “Burning Leaves”). “Celestial Bond,” sung sweetly by Laura Dziadulewicz, and measured “Star Queen (Celestial Bond, Pt. II)” eschew the guttural screams, so you don’t need to ride into battle to enjoy. Or skip to “Passion Proof Power,” which empties the band’s bag of tricks into one 17-minute number. They’re no Finntroll, but close. **.5

This article appears in February 8 • 2013.

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Michael Toland started writing about music in 1988 on the Gulf Coast, moved to Austin in early 1991, and has inflicted bylines upon the corporeal and digital pages of Pop Culture Press, The Big Takeover, Blurt, Amplifier, Austin.citysearch, the Austin American Statesman, Goldmine, Sleazegrinder, Rock & Roll Globe, High Bias, FHT Music Notes, and, since 2011, The Austin Chronicle.