Nibelung

On tour, Led Zeppelin used to play Richard Wagner’s Ride of the Valkyries from the stage to precede their performances. Almost 40 years later, it makes perfect sense that an Austrian metal band would be inspired by the same Teutonic myth that obsessed the classical composer’s legendary ring operatic cycle. Siegfried are a septet who has always aspired toward fusing the epic and the progressive with the brutally heavy. On previous efforts, they have sometimes come off as kitschy. That said, they take their own crack at the story; with different results. Siegfried are still fronted by three vocalists (all of whom sing in German): in Sandra Schleret (soprano), Werner Bialek (clean baritone), Bruder Cle (growling and snarling). On previous offerings, Daniel Bachmaier’s guitar was front and center driving the band, while Hannes Krause’s keyboards lent a thin supporting base with mixed results. But that was long ago. In the six long years between albums, Siegfried has changed their rhythm section to include bassist John Leirer and drummer Patrick Schrittwieser. The break paid off,. For starters, Krause’s keyboards have a much bigger role now. They are massively layered to provide the sonic impressions of an entire orchestra — with very authentic-sounding strings and heavy brass. They actually frame the band’s sound as Bachmaier’s guitar provides crunch factor along with a sophisticated rhythm section to keep the entire proceeding soaring. The trio of singers melds together perfectly as one, and each solos distinctively, effortlessly, adding depth and dimension to the band’s sonic architecture. But more than this, these varying voices add credence to their version of the legend. Standout tracks are the opener, “Die Ring Der Niebelungen,” “Fafnir,” (the element of drama in this track is breathlessly exciting), “Brunhild” (the set’s finest moment), and the incredible closer “Die Gotterdämmerung.” The sense of flow combined with intense energy, gorgeous production and the hard, crackling thunder of heavy metal is all here. Nibelung showcases conceptual authenticity and musical acumen that reveals a band who’ve put their entire sound together and pulled off something approaching the greatness. The only band in their league at the moment may be Therion. This is symphonic, epic metal at its very best.