#33 - Top of 2017

Elvenking - Secrets of the Magic Grimoire (AFM Records)

Secrets of the Magic Grimoire is a record that brings back the melodic power metal elements that Elvenking are amazing at! The clear vocals by Damna and the hyped guitars riffs by Aydan & Rafahel showcase all the great elements of Italian folk cheesiness that were significantly less prominent in its predecessor, "The Pagan Manifesto". "Invoking the Woodland Spirit"is an excellent example of this return to form, with great orchestration and a very catchy chorus that doesn't overshadow the melodic guitars. This is a very strong album with highlights including the catchy "The One We Shall Follow" and the majestic "A Grain of Truth" with its great keyboard and unique vocals (both growls and clean vocals with some female guest vocals adding to the song), while "The Horned Ghost and the Sorcerer" and "The Wolves Will Be Howling Your Name" (with its great riffs!) are two amazing folk/epic entries reminiscent of previous awesome albums by Elvenking. "The Voynich Manuscript" and "A Cloak of Dusk" are also honourable mentions of folk greatness, with the latter melodically wrapping up a great (Italian) folk record!


92/100

Below is the official video clip for the song "Invoking the Woodland Spirit" and the lyric video for the song "Draugen's Malestorm".