"Unsung Heroes" by Ensiferum
In the short week since this album's release, Finnish folk-metalers Ensiferum have caused quite the ruckus between passionate fans. So far, this album caused fans to accuse Ensiferum of abandoning its roots and not being as aggressive as it should be. This album did not have that same effect on me as I welcome change, especially from bands that consistently put out fantastic albums, such as Ensiferum.
What really sets "Unsung Heroes" apart from the previous records is that this one is considerably slower-paced and less ferocious. Much of the album is composed of almost ballad-like tunes meshed with delightful folk-metal Ensiferum churns out on a regular basis.
"Burning Leaves," one of the singles released from the record, epitomizes what this new direction is all about. The catchy folk melodies and Viking-inspired lyrics are still here, the only thing not present was the band's past speed, but that is what will ultimately differentiate this record from the previous ones.
And then there is the 17-minute epic "Passion Proof Power." While some may scoff at the title, it is very important to be aware that the song really packs a punch to all the right places. The song contains everything Ensiferum touched upon in its existence: a folk ballad, power-metal influences and surprisingly enough, a prog-metal section. What this song does is not an easy feat for many bands, but the talented Finnish songcrafters really hit it well here.
While it will be an album to divide many, "Unsung Heroes" hits on something new for the band, the passion the members put into the record shows. At times it feels awkward, which is to be expected when trying something new. It is a solid record, mostly because of the effort to move in a different direction. Ensiferum has not perfected its new direction yet, but maybe it can hone in this sound even better the next time around.
"Love this Giant" by David Byrne and St. Vincent
This album is weird, just the way I like it. But what else can be expected? When pairing one of most legendary art-rock artists of all time in David Byrne with indie pop artist St. Vincent, you are bound to get some mind-boggling tracks. St. Vincent's latest record, "Strange Mercy," was hailed by many outlets as one of the greatest albums of 2011.
Much of the record's music revolves around a brass section, instantly giving this record a funky feel. "Who," the first track, is a catchy little number, displaying the conversational feel of Byrne and St. Vincent's vocals that is present throughout much the album. This gives their music a natural and friendly feel - something many collaborations between great artists lack.
"Weekend in the Dust" is the track that stands above the rest on this record. St. Vincent stands alone in the vocal department, offering some of the catchiest vocal melodies I have heard this year. The instrumental aspects would be enough to catch an earworm, a credit to the truly commendable songwriting skills of Byrne and his partner in crime, St. Vincent.
Anything that Byrne is involved with has the special ability to sound accessible and delightful while being wrapped in complex and forward-thinking ideas. Although this was not a crazy experimental record by Byrne standards, "Love This Giant" focuses on a funky and artistically redeeming sound that both of these artists seem comfortable exploring and playing.
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