Mythology and fantasy have spawned countless heavy metal songs and albums. It's even launched quite a few bands, including the Finnish group Battlelore. Their lyrics are all based on the works of J.R.R. Tolkien, although on their latest album Evernight overt references have been greatly reduced to give the songs a more universal meaning and appeal.
Battlelore's style is epic, bombastic and densely layered. The songs are painstakingly arranged with gothic and orchestral influences. The lush melodies are sometimes acoustic and light, other times heavy and dark. The vocals are a contrast between female ethereal singing and male growling.
More and more bands are doing the whole epic fantasy metal with female and male vocals thing, so it takes a little bit to stand out. Battlelore is able to do that with their stylish arrangements, although a few more catchy hooks and memorable melodies would make them stand out even more.
