(Black Lion Records)
Total Time: 34:13
VAGRANT are coming from Germany and were formed in 2016. After 3 years, it was time for their first full length album, “The Rise Of Norn”, released by Black Lion Records, the label that also gave us KULL (BAL-SAGOTH without Byron Roberts).
“The Rise Of Norn” contains six tracks (5 +1 intro). Music-wise, they are into the melodic Death Metal genre, with obvious Black Metal elements in their music though. Majestic melodies, keyboards that give the proper epic atmosphere combined with the acoustic guitars which are quickly replaced by electric ones, but not before they fulfill their purpose, which is to give the needed atmosphere. Regarding the bands from which VAGRANT are influenced, I can listen some AMON AMARTH of course, TYR and MOONSORROW to name a few, but at the same time, when they turn to Black Metal, I can easily listen to DISSECTION lurking above. Lyric-wise, I cannot say something specific unfortunately, as I don’t have the lyrics in my hands. Judging from the title, I could speculate that it has something to do with Scandinavia, but I wouldn’t like to guess without knowing for sure.
Overall, it is a very easy to listen album. Small running time which does not let the listener to be bored, and songs with a familiar sound and structure. The thing is this. You listen to the debut album from a band and you don’t expect to be so perfect. It just cannot be. Somewhere, there are some flaws. It is not possible that the very first album from a band is like that. In VAGRANT’s case, it is! Flawless! Listen to it immediately!
Rating: 7.5/10
Nick “Yngve” Samios
Related Link: VAGRANT’s Facebook Page
