Released On: 20th September 2024
Appearing out of the ether back in 2023 (last year at the time of writing) Eihwar might seem like a gimmick. This is in contrast to more serious acts that fly the banner of traditional neo-folk that have romanticised Paganism. Evangelising the old ways like a system update to the Abrahamic Appropriation. With Eihwar there is some humility and a very strong spirit that burns behind their Viking War Trance.
Viking War Trance is their debut album. Where the aforementioned spirit that drives these songs is unlimited with fierce and raw power. Presented with a naturalistic sound that when coupled with a ritual beat makes for a very compelling experience. It is brilliant even as the acts quirkiness offsets the pseudo-historical context. And just so we are clear Nerds, this is modern music in a historical context. Your European ancestors were not jiving to this down the local marais. Eihwar do however capture the ancestral ethos. Viking War Trance is a good, no great, time.
With emphasis on vocals and rhythms Viking War Trance paints an emotionally articulate image of struggles and strife. While there is no affiliation, the band originate from France, there is a resemblance to the avant garde scene from Norway. Borknagar springs to mind but that is a cold comparison, and in spirit only. The power here comes from melody, not through noise.
The album is fun. On the technical it is interesting to hear a new take on old songs. As they do with three from their previous effort [Ragnarök, a compilation not an album – Ed]. And, is authentic to the art of folk. The story, sometimes the tune, is adapted to fit the times. It takes gall to do something like that unashamedly. If the group was any bigger it would be called a cop-out to fill contractual obligations; size matters. Eihwar while not period accurate are at least authentic to their beliefs. Dancing to the beat of their own drum like Thor singing the blues during a thunderstorm. Eihwar are a splendor to see and hear.
8/10
