Outside of a Jul celebration, I don't think one will find as many runes and Mjolnirs (Thor's hammer) as there are in the collective band logos of this double CD compilation, showcasing the underground pagan / Viking scene. Despite being a commemoration of the Ragnarok festival, there are no live tracks, but a double CD collection of tracks form assorted studio albums. Although the compilation is dominated by bands signed to Det Germanske Folket, who released the compilation, bands from other labels (including Napalm Records and Fear Dark Productions) do make an appearance alongside some independent bands.

Kampfar, who alongside Manegarm are the most well known band by a considerable margin, open with "Ravenheart" from their masterpiece _Kvass_. Or they would have, had a printing snafu not resulted in the last song by Nydwind being placed first, resulting in an actual track list one song ahead of the printed version. Ironwood, who are the best unsigned band I have heard this year, contribute a song from their excellent MCD, although another printing error rechristens (so to speak) them "Irinwood". Add Belenos, Myrkgrav and Himinbjorg to this list, and the remaining bands featured are unknown to me. Reflecting perhaps both my bias for this music and the calibre of musicians on offer, there are no bad songs, all rank above average and I will certainly be making an effort to hear more of many of the unknown (to yours truly) bands within.

There is little point in indulging in a lengthy song-by-song exposition -- with a total of thirty tracks, it would be unnecessarily time-consuming, as well as infuriating for you, our valued reader. But if you are interested in examining the best that the underground pagan / Viking / folk metal scene has to offer, have a peek at this compilation. Now, if you will excuse me, there are some CDs that need to be tracked down...