According to Norse mythology Njord is the god of the wind and of the sea, and Njord is also the title of the newest release from Leaves' Eyes.
It could be said that Leaves' Eyes are one of the most prominent bands in the very popular symphonic/gothic metal genre. Is it any wonder? Especially with Liv Kristine's entrancing vocals which are accompanied by Leaves' Eyes other voice, that of Alexander Krull, whose harsh vocals provides Njord's darker side.
While Njord may not be a ground-breaking gothic release, it has many alluring charms. One of these charms is the ambiance Leaves' Eyes have created which really heightens the overall appeal, like on opener and title song "Njord" or their version of the English folk classic (and later hit for Simon & Garfunkle) "Scarborough Fair", which Leaves' Eyes have done a fine job interpreting into this heavier version. "Emerald Island" is a show stealer, Liv Kristine sounds fantastic, this track reminds me of how much I miss Tarja Turunen's voice in Nightwish, and the same could be said for the stellar "Ragnarok" or the Infectious "Take The Devil In Me". The latter is definitely single material.
If the truth be told Njord is hard to fault, and this gothic group obviously knows what it takes to put together an enjoyable album. End result- Njord is easily one of 2009's top metal CDs.
Track List:
1. Njord
2. My Destiny
3. Emerald Island
4. Take the Devil in Me
5. Scarborough Fair
6. Through Our Veins
7. Irish Rain
8. Northbound
9. Ragnarok
10. Morgenland
11. The Holy Bond
12. Frøya's Theme