Tyr - 'By The Light Of The Northern Star'

You might have to go to Google Earth to figure out where the Faroe Islands are located (I did just that and ended up spending a half hour zooming around the place), but luckily you don't have to travel there to hear Tyr. The prolific Viking metallers return with By The Light Of The Northern Star, their fourth Napalm Records release in as many years.

Tyr has developed a recognizable sound, blending majestic Viking metal with some folk elements. They are more accessible than some bands in their genre, and use melodic vocals exclusively. The songs on By The Light Of The Northern Star have ample heaviness, but also catchy singalong choruses and numerous hooks. Tracks such as "Hear The Heathen Call" have shredding guitar solos and intense moments, but also a lot of melody.

After showing more progressive tendencies with a couple of really long songs on their previous CD Land, Tyr streamlines things on By The Light Of The Northern Star, with most songs in the four to five minute range. That's a wise choice, as the album flows nicely.

Tyr's lyrical subjects are similar to previous albums as well, using Viking and traditional Faroese themes. Some songs are in English, and others in Faroese, such as "Tróndur í Gøtu." Tyr has become a reliably good Viking metal band, and By The Light Of The Northern Star will only add to that reputation.

(released June 2, 2009 on Napalm Records)