Vanir – ’10 Years Of Mead And Metal’ (EP 2020)
Rating: 8/10
Release: 17 April 2020
Label: Mighty Music
The planned intent for reviewing Vanir was loads of extensive research as well as a long backstory deeply involved in reminiscing last year’s holiday in Denmark for Udgardsfest. The end result, as with all expectations, leaves less to be desired with my mental capacity overwhelmed by World War Covid. Some citizens are diligently taking this extra time to improve themselves, finding hobbies and reaccommodating abodes to match the new sequestered lifestyles. Others finding the re-enactment of normalcy in such times, futile. Me, I’m clearly that other, this isht is nuts! How fortunate the privilege of music to counteract the crazy.
Vanir’s recent 10 years of Mead and Metal is a best of record; hence the intent for research. Besides last year’s live experience, I hadn’t heard of these Danish Vikings. Luckily, the 20 minute EP is a perfect introduction to this ensemble with their top tracks of the decade. Saerimners Kod marches in referencing Metallica like guitar harmonies halfway through the upbeat thrashy piece. A slightly` trollish motif picks up in Rejsen til Udgardsloke with descending pounding riffs that I can’t help but hear Finntroll in. Then Gildet paces swiftly through a few choruses of a dancy jig that ends with a poignant piano. The Kringsatt av Fjender track is a redirect with slower tempos and familiar singular themes and the record quickly finishes off with an English version of the first song. Straight forward, uncomplicated.
Each song is generally one noted yet catchy enough for repeat plays. With our newfound complications, simplicity becomes a grounded refuge. Support your favorite and local bands, buy their merch, collect their discography and aptly appreciate their existence.
Tracklist
- Særimners Kød (DK)
- Rejsen til Udgårdsloke
- Gildet
- Kringsat Av Fiender
- Særimners Kød (ENG)