Falconer Among Beggars And Thieves
Metal Blade Records Inc 2008
By Axemaiden
Among Beggars And Thieves, whilst retaining the stereotypical Falconer sound, has moved into a darker new direction since the release of their previous work Northwind. The band still utilises the epic medieval sound, the ethereal guitar sections, the melodic vocal harmonies and the intricate and incredibly skilful guitar solos, but this time the music is overlain with a crunchier, more brutal rhythm guitar that pushes the albums sound even further into the realms of a heavier blend of metal.
There are many elements of this latest album that I really do enjoy when listening to it, for example; the well-composed and thoughtful lyrics, the unusual use of harmonies in many of the tracks, the much darker and heavier rhythm guitar sound, and of course the epic and elaborate work of the lead guitars. However, as seems to be an unfortunate tendency with many bands who embrace the mediaeval metal influence, there is often a fine line between music that comes across as being a little cheesy, and music you can take seriously. There are some elements of the former in this album, nothing that detracts too much from the skill however, but just enough to make you wince a tiny, tiny fraction when you hear it. I would still recommend giving it a damn good listen however.
Official Falconer Website
Official Falconer Myspace
Official Metal Blade Website
Metal Blade Records Inc 2008
By Axemaiden
Among Beggars And Thieves, whilst retaining the stereotypical Falconer sound, has moved into a darker new direction since the release of their previous work Northwind. The band still utilises the epic medieval sound, the ethereal guitar sections, the melodic vocal harmonies and the intricate and incredibly skilful guitar solos, but this time the music is overlain with a crunchier, more brutal rhythm guitar that pushes the albums sound even further into the realms of a heavier blend of metal.
There are many elements of this latest album that I really do enjoy when listening to it, for example; the well-composed and thoughtful lyrics, the unusual use of harmonies in many of the tracks, the much darker and heavier rhythm guitar sound, and of course the epic and elaborate work of the lead guitars. However, as seems to be an unfortunate tendency with many bands who embrace the mediaeval metal influence, there is often a fine line between music that comes across as being a little cheesy, and music you can take seriously. There are some elements of the former in this album, nothing that detracts too much from the skill however, but just enough to make you wince a tiny, tiny fraction when you hear it. I would still recommend giving it a damn good listen however.
Official Falconer Website
Official Falconer Myspace
Official Metal Blade Website
