Battlelore - 'The Last Alliance'

J.R.R. Tolkien is one influential writer. In addition to the movies based on his works, there have been countless songs written about his subject matter, and there are some bands that devote all their songs to his material. The Finnish band Battlelore is the preeminent Tolkien metal band, and they have released their fifth album.

The Last Alliance combines folk and symphonic metal with lyrics about Middle Earth. Orchestral elements and keyboards provide an elegant atmosphere. There are also crunchy guitars and elements of more extreme genres.

The songs are sometimes menancing and ominous, sometimes lighter and more accessible. This time around Battlelore has done a better job creating memorable hooks and catchier choruses. That, along with flawless production from Dan Swano (Opeth, Katatonia) makes it very dynamic and compelling.

The vocals combine growling from Tomi Mykkanen and melodic singing from Kaisa Jouhki. Her ethereal and airy soprano contrasts nicely with his growls. There are a few songs where the singing is especially prominent and there isn't much growling, but The Last Alliance is strongest when there's a balance between the two vocal styles.

(released October 7, 2008 on Napalm Records)