Green Lung delves into British folklore with epic new album, “This Heathen Land”

British heavy metal outfit Green Lung returns with their latest offering, “This Heathen Land,” a deep exploration into the mystical and folkloric tapestry of the United Kingdom. Released in November 2023, the album follows up on their critically acclaimed 2021 effort, “Black Harvest,” and pushes the band’s unique blend of doom, psychedelic, and traditional metal to new heights.

“This Heathen Land” wastes no time establishing its thematic focus. The opening track, “Prologue,” sets the scene with an atmosphere of ancient mystery, leading into the anthemic “The Forest Church.” This track exemplifies the album’s strengths: soaring vocals reminiscent of Ronnie James Dio, pummeling riffs that recall Black Sabbath, and a progressive edge that keeps things interesting. Reviews praise the record’s ability to seamlessly blend influences, creating a sound that’s both retro and fresh at the same time,

Lyrically, “This Heathen Land” dives into the world of British folklore, weaving tales of piskies, fairies, witches, and forgotten rituals. The album artwork reinforces this theme, depicting a nightmarish landscape populated by fantastical creatures. Tracks like “Maxine (Witch Queen)” directly reference these figures, while others like “Song of the Stones” evoke a sense of ancient magic and forgotten history.

Fans of Green Lung’s previous work will find much to love on “This Heathen Land.” The band’s signature heavy riffs and driving rhythms are present throughout, but there’s also a newfound emphasis on melody and atmosphere. This is particularly evident in tracks like “One for Sorrow” and “Hunters in the Sky,” which showcase the band’s ability to craft memorable hooks alongside their crushing riffs.

“This Heathen Land” is a triumph for Green Lung, solidifying their position as one of the most exciting bands in modern heavy metal. With its deep exploration of British folklore, its epic soundscapes, and its infectious blend of classic and contemporary influences, the album is a must-listen for fans of doom, psychedelic, and traditional metal alike.