I have done reviews of this act from the Czech Republic in the past, and if my memory serves me right, I found their music good without being outstanding. Jasmus is their fifth release and I feel Trollech's songwriting has matured and more is varied than before. This is still no masterpiece, but a pleasant step forward for the "Wood Ghosts".
This release is based around the story of a mythological figure by the name of Jasmuz, the blacksmith. The folk/metal music is more epic than before; another good mark for Trollech. Then, the pace is not as furious and neither does it stick constantly to the same tempo; a very good move! Some people might have their hair stand on ends while hearing the occasional screech, but the usual harsh vocals are much better and soothing. The added melodic tones by using keyboards here and there and, on a more frequent basis, the quite appropriate natural sound of acoustic guitars. Folksy electric leads and a touch of mandolin are gracing the soundscape of this album too. I think the only weakness here is the lack of punch and crunchiness, especially with the guitar work. The riffing has a tendency to be taken from a more mainstream /heavy metal framework than the beastie Viking type.
Overall, a pleasant folk metal disc from Trollech; a band that has still yet to offer their best work. Hopefully they will next time around, and with meatier guitar work.
Track listing:
1 – Moudrost Kovare
2 – Kralovsky Jezdec
3 – Podkovy
4 – Brneni
5 – Strom Kolobehu
6 – Do Vezeni
7 –Osvobozeni
8 – Jasmuz Uz Spi
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