Fejd: Storm

The Swedish band Fejd formed in 2001 and have released three EPs before their latest full length debut entitled Storm hit the shelves this year. The press release labels Fejd as Nordic medieval folk and who am I to disagree. The band consists of Patrik Rimmerfors (lead vocals, bouzouki, Swedish bagpipe, Jew's harp, cow horn, wooden whistle, willow-pipe), Niklas Rimmerfors (keyed fiddler, backing vocals), Thomas Antonsson (bass), Lennart Specht (keyboards, guitar) and Esko Salow (drums). Traditional folk instruments are used to bring these twelve compositions to life. You will also notice the absence of electric guitars which to me was not a distraction as the acoustic instrumentation provides a full and varied sound. There is a slight sadness conveyed in this music that brings to mind the folklore of yesteryear. The only reservations I have are in the vocal department. Patrick Rimmerfors often sings in a slightly gruff, rough voice that is out of tune in places. Although I feel this is an area that could use improvements I did get used to his vocal style after a few listens.

The album starts with the folksy "Offerok", complete with Swedish bagpipes, making this a kind of Swedish lilt that really captures the essence of Scandinavian folk music. The enchanting "Alvorna Dansar" featuring the vocals of Elina are in nice contrast to the male vocals and is reminiscent how Nightwish compliment the vocals of Anette Olzon with Marco Hietala. I would like to see the band experiment with more female vocals on future recordings as this is one of the album's strongest songs.

While there are no bad tunes here, unfortunately the second half of my promo copy is marred by annoying narration stating "you are listening to the new Fejd album Storm". I never would have guessed. Another listening experience ruined by the use of ridiculous modifications that really affected the overall flow of the album. What would have been a solid 3.5 stars now becomes a 1.5 star effort. It's too bad, as this is a good album but one I cannot in good conscience give full credit.

Track Listing:
1. Offerok
2. Svanesang
3. Alvorna Dansar
4. Vid Jore A
5. Egils Polska
6. Storm
7. Varg I Veum
8. Aril
9. Skuld
10. Likfard
11. Bergakungen
12. Morgonstjarnan

Added: May 6th 2009
Reviewer: Jon Neudorf
Score:
Related Link: Band's Official Site
Hits: 2563
Language: english

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