Emerging from the Northern reaches of the United States comes an exceptional Symphonic Folk Metal four-piece. Boston's very own Wilderun have been together since 2008, but all things considered they're a brand new band face in the metal scene. The band dropped their debut album "Olden Tales & Deathly Trails" in September of last year (Released independently. Respect.), but they have already achieved a very mature sound through time, purpose and direction.
Their music is conceived with a very professional attitude, bringing large scale production and excellent, skillful delivery on all fronts. Every member executes multiple positions within the bands sound. This includes the use of guitars, bass, drums (all obvious), along with use of the Mandolin, Hammered Dulcimer, Autoharp, etc (all not so obvious). They have a great sense of what they're doing and aren't afraid to experiment with their sound. When you add up all these factors, it makes for a packed, solid listening experience from beginning to end.
"The Cracking Glow" eases into the album with the gentle touch of a sunrise. The bands symphonic approach is apparent right from the start as various instruments make contributions before the guitars / drums really hit. They bring you into a musical land of fantasy, vikings, and adventure. This is a very good indication of what to expect from a good bit of the album. But the band is capable of covering various musical themes. This is apparent early on as the opening of "Suncatcher" takes a side step which powers into one of the strongest tracks off the record. It stands tall amongst other songs such as "Storm Along", "Vaunting Veins", and the 12-minute closer, "The Dying Californian". But it must be said that every track off of "Olden Tales & Deathly Trails" is well worth your while in one way or another.
I have no criticisms in particular about "Olden Tales & Deathly Trails". Objectively, some of you may find it to be the same old folk metal, despite it's twists. But in reality, it is very well delivered and intelligently written music spanning various themes. In many ways, this band really stands apart from the pack as a beast of their own.
To sum up the review, Wilderun did a great job constructing "Olden Tales & Deathly Trails". The album provides a memorable, adventurous listening experience suitable for any viking quest. Listen enough and you might even grow a fork-beard \m/ You can sample two tracks from the record above. And if you enjoy what you're hearing, be sure to stream the rest on the official Wilderun Bandcamp and buy the album if you love it!
