Ydalir (CD, fra Skalmöld

Appearing in a limited digisleeve.

With Ýdalir, the Viking Metal giants SKÁLMÖD look forward to the release of their sixth studio album, which will be out on August 18, 2023. Their first studio album in five years is inspired by the Nordic poem Grímnismál, a famous saga from their home country of Iceland. The band not only captivates fans at festival performances such as Wacken Open Air, but also receives support from the Icelandic president Guðni Th. Jóhannesson, who is even immortalized in the preface of their official book, The Saga Of Skálmöld (2021).

Like the calm before the storm, the album opener 'Ýr' lulls listeners with gentle acoustic melodies before transitioning into the tumultuous 'Ýdalir.' Hypnotic guitar rhythms, coupled with thundering drums, form a solid foundation while growls shake the ground. Showcasing an excellent guitar solo, 'Ratatoskur' features a fierce battle between shrill growls and clean vocals. On the catchy track 'Verðandi,' listeners are immediately invited to sing along. Captivating folk and death metal elements support the dominant oboe melody, which acts as a common thread throughout the entire song before getting lost within organ arrangements and the sound of the sea. Based on Norse mythology, 'Skuld' addresses the sisterhood of the Norn trio, which determines the fate of humans, illustrated by gloomy bass and guitar melodies. The album concludes with the diverse piece 'Ullur,' taking the listener on a ten-minute mystical journey, underscored by catchy Old Norse verses and the interplay of oboe and keyboard arrangements. With Ýdalir, the Viking Metal powerhouse SKÁLMÖD once again delivers mystical moments on their new album, which they will showcase at this year's festival performances such as Wacken or Summer Breeze.