Thyrfing

Vansinnesvisor (Hammerheart)
by Scott Hefflon

Thyrfing won my heart when they covered Gary Moore’s “Over the Hills and Far Away” on Urkraft (I know it’s a traditional melody, let me dream). Vansinnesvisor finds the young band singing (almost) entirely in Swedish, often layered howls in a way to convey post-battle laments and tributes, as well as battlefield cries and mourning, which fits neatly with the folky elements of the music. While not as old world as Vintersorg, there are glorious nostalgic moments of the days of wilderness, tribe, and mystery. The interior artwork gorgeously shows the members in tunics, muddied, and in lush, unspoiled landscapes. Produced by Daniel Bergstrand (Meshuggah), the sound is huge and earthen.
(www.hammerheart.com)