Metal Underground.com

Over the past ten years or so, Sweden's Amon Amarth have risen from cult favourites to become one of metal's most popular names. The band's brand of viking metal has helped make them one of the best, if not the best, known group in the sub-genre and with their latest album, "Jomsviking," they are sure to remain so. This record marks their first concept album, telling the story of a warrior who falls in love with a married woman, but must flee his home after killing another man and as expected, Amon Amarth tell the story in a suitably epic fashion.

Immediately, the album demonstrates the superb skills of all musicians involved, with opener "First Kill" particularly showing off the talent of bass player Ted Lundström. The song itself is, like the album as a whole, wonderfully crafted, creating a freezing cold atmosphere which settles like the snow our protagonist treads through on his journey. The superb musicianship continues on to the next track, "Wanderer," which contains some amazing lead guitar work that both carries the song and remains a constant presence throughout the album.

Any concept album also needs a strong lyricist, as to tell a story well it takes someone who knows how to express the tale, which Johan Hegg can do brilliantly. The lyrics are especially vivid on such tracks as "One Against All" and "A Dream That Cannot Be," the latter of which also features a wonderfully utilized guest appearance from Doro Pesch. On songs like "Raise Your Horns" and "The Way of Vikings," the singer is able to draw comparisons to the metal community and it's ways with the brutal nature and lifestyle of the vikings.

"Jomsviking" is a frankly wonderful work featurings excellent storytelling, an atmosphere that's on par with the likes of "Vikings" or "Valhalla Rising" and most importantly, outstanding music. Fans old and new will love this record for it's relentless sonic onslaught and the images it leads the listener to conjure up in their own mind. Amon Amarth once more prove why they're one of the most popular bands around.