Falconer Chapters From A Vale Forlorn
Metal Blade 2002
By Russell Garwood
Falconer, which consists of Stefan Weinerhalls (guitar) Mithias Blad (vocals and keyboard) and drummer Karsten Larson, was formed by Weinerhalls after the split of his former band Mithotyn. Chapters From A Vale Forlorn, their sophomore album, continues in a similar, if slightly slower, vein to their self-titled debut; anthemic and melodic power metal with a decidedly mediaeval flavour. The music is catchy and mid-paced with competent guitar work, precise drumming (especially the double bass) and some impressive vocals. These are not (as you would expect) typical power metal vox, being less screechy and high pitched than the usual standard. The production too, courtesy of Andy La Rocque (Kind Diamond), is first-class, making for a very enjoyable album.
Chapters opens with Decadence Of Dignity, showcasing the accomplished drumming and the vocalists original take on power metal vox as well as the admiral guitar work. This is followed by Enter The Glade, a good example of Weinerhalls ability to write amazingly catchy tunes and entertaining (if slightly cheesy) lyrics. Track 3 Lament Of A Minstrel opens to the sound of guest flautist Sabine Daniels, adding authenticity to the mediaeval feel, followed by For Life And Liberty, another hook-laden but slightly more upbeat song. Next comes We Sold Our Homesteads, an arrangement of a traditional Swedish folk song which introduces more variety. The Clarion Calls is another first-rate song with one of the catchiest choruses on the album quite an achievement. For Portals Of Light the band go into full ballad mode and do it in style; slow drums and guitars are accompanied by piano and vocals which further demonstrate Blads versatility. This is followed by the striking Stand In Veneration, which is jumpy, memorable and a truly well-written song. Lead guitar duties on Busted To The Floor are handled admirably by Andy La Rocque and the song is an excellent conclusion to an excellent album
Metal Blade 2002
By Russell Garwood
Falconer, which consists of Stefan Weinerhalls (guitar) Mithias Blad (vocals and keyboard) and drummer Karsten Larson, was formed by Weinerhalls after the split of his former band Mithotyn. Chapters From A Vale Forlorn, their sophomore album, continues in a similar, if slightly slower, vein to their self-titled debut; anthemic and melodic power metal with a decidedly mediaeval flavour. The music is catchy and mid-paced with competent guitar work, precise drumming (especially the double bass) and some impressive vocals. These are not (as you would expect) typical power metal vox, being less screechy and high pitched than the usual standard. The production too, courtesy of Andy La Rocque (Kind Diamond), is first-class, making for a very enjoyable album.
Chapters opens with Decadence Of Dignity, showcasing the accomplished drumming and the vocalists original take on power metal vox as well as the admiral guitar work. This is followed by Enter The Glade, a good example of Weinerhalls ability to write amazingly catchy tunes and entertaining (if slightly cheesy) lyrics. Track 3 Lament Of A Minstrel opens to the sound of guest flautist Sabine Daniels, adding authenticity to the mediaeval feel, followed by For Life And Liberty, another hook-laden but slightly more upbeat song. Next comes We Sold Our Homesteads, an arrangement of a traditional Swedish folk song which introduces more variety. The Clarion Calls is another first-rate song with one of the catchiest choruses on the album quite an achievement. For Portals Of Light the band go into full ballad mode and do it in style; slow drums and guitars are accompanied by piano and vocals which further demonstrate Blads versatility. This is followed by the striking Stand In Veneration, which is jumpy, memorable and a truly well-written song. Lead guitar duties on Busted To The Floor are handled admirably by Andy La Rocque and the song is an excellent conclusion to an excellent album
