Hrossharsgrani — Pro Liberate Dimicandum Est
Hrossharsgrani falls into murky areas, in speaking of genres. While they seem to be labeled as Viking Metal; what we hear on “Pro Liberate Dimicandum Est” is anything but. What they do play is an interesting mix of Industrial, Martial and Ambient; and to that extent it’s done very well.
On the song “Pro Liberate Dimicandum Est”, the music is a complex mix of noise, classical melodies and heavy reverb. There are touches of Martial that lend an aristocratic air to the pieces such as “None Of You”. On “All Systems Go” they really shine with a thundering Industrial beat empowered by a buried guitar track that meanders and slithers throughout. Each song is flavored with soundtrack dialog from various movies (think 300 and Gladiator) that adds to the militaristic feel.
While the above mentioned songs are only a sampling of what we hear; there are a few low points. Some tracks are a bit wandering, some are much too short. Overall the cohesiveness could have been better, but for what it’s worth it is an atmospherically dark and emotional work.