Skálmöld – Ýdalir

Skálmöld, the Icelandic folk metal outfit, returns with their thunderous sixth album, “Ýdalir” (translated as “Valleys”). The band continues to blend elements of traditional Icelandic music with modern metal, creating an epic and immersive listening experience. Let’s delve into the album track by track and see if Skálmöld reaches new heights with “Ýdalir.”

Track-by-Track Exploration of the Norse Realms:

• Yr (The Year): The album opens with a powerful statement. Dualing guitars intertwine with traditional Icelandic instruments, setting the stage for the album’s exploration of Norse mythology. Einar Hrafn Björnsson’s vocals are both clean and powerful, perfectly capturing the epic atmosphere.
• Ýdalir (Valleys): The title track throws in some galloping rhythms and driving drums, adding a dose of metal energy to the traditional folk influences. The soaring chorus is instantly memorable, making this a potential live anthem.
• Urður (Urðr): A melancholic piano melody introduces this track, dedicated to the Norn, Urðr, who represents the past. The vocals shift between clean and raspy, reflecting the weight of time and memory.
• Ratatoskur: This track features a more playful atmosphere. Fast tempos and a prominent flute line create a sense of movement, perhaps reflecting the ever-chattering squirrel of Norse mythology, Ratatoskur.
• Verðandi (Verðandi): A return to a more epic sound. Crushing riffs and soaring vocals depict the power of Verðandi, the Norn who represents the present. The bridge features a beautiful string section, adding a touch of elegance to the powerful music.
• Veðurfölnir (Weather-beaten): This track injects a shot of pure adrenaline. Breakneck tempos and aggressive vocals create a sense of urgency, perfectly capturing the harshness of the natural world.
• Skuld (Skuld): The final Norn, Skuld, who represents the future, takes center stage here. The music is a slow burn, with a heavy atmosphere that builds to a powerful climax. The guitar solo is particularly impressive, showcasing the band’s technical prowess.
• Níðhöggur: This track delves into a darker soundscape. Distorted guitars and guttural vocals depict the monstrous serpent Níðhöggur who gnaws at the roots of Yggdrasil, the world tree.
• Ullur (Ullr): A return to a more uplifting sound. This track celebrates the god Ullur, the master of archery and hunting. Fast tempos and a prominent fiddle line create a sense of excitement and adventure.

Verdict: 4.5 out of 5

“Ýdalir” is a triumph for Skálmöld. The album seamlessly blends traditional Icelandic folk music with modern metal, creating a sound that is both powerful and unique. Each track is meticulously crafted, taking the listener on a journey through the Norse myths and landscapes. The clean and harsh vocals are perfectly balanced, and the musicianship is top-notch.

A minor point to consider: Listeners unfamiliar with Norse mythology might miss some of the lyrical depth. However, the music is powerful enough to stand on its own, even without understanding the specific references.

“Ýdalir” is a must-listen for fans of folk metal and anyone who appreciates epic and immersive music. Skálmöld has cemented their place as one of the leading lights of the genre, and this album is a testament to their creativity and talent.