Falconer The Sceptre Of Deception
Metalblade Records November 4th 2003
By Russell Garwood
The Sceptre Of Deception is Falconers third album, and continues in a similar vein to Chapters From A Vale Forlorn. In other words, here we have a collection of epic, mediaeval, folk-influenced power metal songs. To claim it wasnt cheesy would be a lie, but that said it is highly enjoyable cheese. Like mozzarella.
A mediaeval fantasy story is told through the lyrics, taking the theme a step further than in previous works. The drums of Karsten Larsson (Mithotyn) are excellent, adapting to a wide range of tempos, and - with extensive use of double-bass rolls - making for a relatively heavy percussive section. The guitars of Stefan Weinerhall (Mithotyn) and Anders Johansson are also solid, swathed in epic-mediaeval melodies, and occasional utilising occasional acoustics to add variety. The solos are also highly melodic, with King Diamonds Andy La Roque taking lead duties on obligatory ballad Hear Me Pray. The bass of Peder Johansson supports intricate the guitar-work perfectly. Vocals come courtesy of Kristoffer Göbel, following the departure of previous singer Mathias Blad, who delivers the dialogue of one character to ease the transition. Kristoffers singing is of a high standard, being both tuneful and powerful, but it can seem slightly reserved at times.
The bands production, in collaboration with Andy La Roque, is well balanced and clear. Admittedly The Sceptre Of Deception is nothing new, and is very similar to Falconers earlier works, but it is nevertheless catchy and highly enjoyable. Well written and competently performed, this release will be appreciated by power and mediaeval/epic metal fans.
Official Metalblade Website
Official Falconer Website
Metalblade Records November 4th 2003
By Russell Garwood
The Sceptre Of Deception is Falconers third album, and continues in a similar vein to Chapters From A Vale Forlorn. In other words, here we have a collection of epic, mediaeval, folk-influenced power metal songs. To claim it wasnt cheesy would be a lie, but that said it is highly enjoyable cheese. Like mozzarella.
A mediaeval fantasy story is told through the lyrics, taking the theme a step further than in previous works. The drums of Karsten Larsson (Mithotyn) are excellent, adapting to a wide range of tempos, and - with extensive use of double-bass rolls - making for a relatively heavy percussive section. The guitars of Stefan Weinerhall (Mithotyn) and Anders Johansson are also solid, swathed in epic-mediaeval melodies, and occasional utilising occasional acoustics to add variety. The solos are also highly melodic, with King Diamonds Andy La Roque taking lead duties on obligatory ballad Hear Me Pray. The bass of Peder Johansson supports intricate the guitar-work perfectly. Vocals come courtesy of Kristoffer Göbel, following the departure of previous singer Mathias Blad, who delivers the dialogue of one character to ease the transition. Kristoffers singing is of a high standard, being both tuneful and powerful, but it can seem slightly reserved at times.
The bands production, in collaboration with Andy La Roque, is well balanced and clear. Admittedly The Sceptre Of Deception is nothing new, and is very similar to Falconers earlier works, but it is nevertheless catchy and highly enjoyable. Well written and competently performed, this release will be appreciated by power and mediaeval/epic metal fans.
Official Metalblade Website
Official Falconer Website
