Unleashed

The 11th studio album from Sweden's Unleashed, Odalheim furthers their post-doomsday concept, which is rooted in Norse mythology and Viking history. While the lyrical storyline is intriguing, it's the band's unique blend of death, black and thrash metal that makes Odalheim worthy of repeat listening. "Fimbulwinter" starts the record off with a sonic attack and features some intense, blackened death metal-esque, speedy riffs. The stellar melodic guitar work showcased on the title track, as well as on "By Celtic and British Shores," makes it an instant highlight, while "White Christ" and "Gathering the Battalions" are simply fast and crushing. With the thrash-y "Germania," Unleashed slow down the pace slightly to offer up some vicious grooves that are reminiscent of Meshuggah. Odalheim is filled with the imagery of battling warriors, and the band's Gothenburg-style of melodic death metal makes for the perfect counterpart to their lyrical themes. Turn the volume up on this one and prepare yourself for battle.