GRAND MAGUS – Sword Songs

Classic heavy metal is the game of Sweden’s Grand Magus. They share their brand of heavy rock with the world since 2001 when the band released their self titled debut album. With Sword Songs we get album number eight, but it is apparent that it is mostly for the die hard fans of the band as little has changed over the years. Which would not be bad if Grand Magus had not already released several albums that are better in many ways compared to their new, only 35 minute lasting output. If one is new to the band, Iron Will or Hammer Of The North would be better starting points.

Those two feel more spontaneous and have greater metal hymns than Sword Songs which is not a bad album, just fails to live up to what one is allowed to expect judged by the best releases in their own discography. Still, ‘Varangian’, ‘Freja’s Choice’ and ‘Frost And Fire’ are good fist raising metal songs that keep the Swedes afloat until they can return with another competitor to the Grand Magus’ throne.