CoC : Sig:Ar:Tyr - Beyond the North Winds : Review

Sig:Ar:Tyr - _Beyond the North Winds_
(Morbid Winter, 2008)
by: Quentin Kalis (8.5 out of 10)

Sig:Ar:Tyr is possibly the most underrated project within the pagan metal underground. Part of the reason is his signing to the minute Morbid Winter Records, which really doesn't have the funds to adequately promote his work, and he would be better suited on Napalm Records. If you want proof of his suitability, you need look no further than this or debut predecessor, _Sailing the Seas of Fate_. His sophomore effort picks up where the last left off, incorporating a few incremental changes, such as greater focus on metallic soundscapes, fewer acoustic passages and more frequent vocals, but I have a feeling the latter was added somewhat reluctantly; sole member Daemonskald is an axeman above all else, with considerable skills on acoustic, rhythm and lead guitar. The drumming remains rudimentary, and his compositions would be better served with the assistance of a session musician to provide more complex patterns that enhanced the song but did not detract markedly from the guitars. Nor will he win any awards for his singing, but his arrangements, melodies and technical skill are such that these are rather minor complaints. The album ends with a beautiful ballad, "Far Away"; and while Daemonskald may not consider it one of his better songs in terms of technicality, it is a wistful song that remains one of the highlights on an album littered with many.

Contact: http://www.sigartyr.com

(article published 15/1/2009)

ALBUMS
12/26/2006	Q Kalis	9	Sig:Ar:Tyr - Sailing in the Seas of Fate

DEMOS
1/25/2004	A Magers	4.5	SIG:AR:TYR - The Stranger