Release date: 27th August 2021
It feels like it’s been forever since we have had new music from Thyrfing (it’s been about eight and a half years since 2013’s magnificent De ödeslösa, after all) but needless to say, Vanagandr has been worth the wait. Featuring eight masterfully constructed tracks, it’s clear that Thyrfing have spent their time ensuring that everything is just right.
Speaking quite frankly, I’ve been struggling to work out exactly how to describe how mind-meltingly awesome Vanagandr is – it’s why this review is late, and hasn’t been posted ahead of the album’s release date. I keep listening to it, and keep being blown away. It’s fresh and exciting, with so many powerful inclusions, and I already can’t wait to see how the songs translate live – it follows on from De ödeslösa perfectly, and may well be Thyrfing’s best release yet.
Rötter is a particular highlight, featuring soaring repeating melodies that have become somewhat of a signature of Thyrfing’s sound. The aforementioned melody is one of those lines that will get inexplicably stuck in your head, and it’s one of the reasons the song leaves such a lasting impression – along with the perfectly-delivered harsh vocals from Rydén.
All I can say is – don’t take my word for it, listen to Vanagandr yourself and prepare to be impressed. This is a serious contender for 2021’s album of the year.
