Power of Metal.dk Review

Finsterforst
Mach Dich Frei
Rating
Style: Folk Metal
Release date: 2 February, 2015
Playing time: 73:59
 


Finsterforst is German folk-metal band with lyrical themes that linger around nature, fantasy, philosophy and myths. Their name translates to "Dark forest" in German and is a reference to "Schwarzwald" meaning black forest - a mountain range situated in the band's homestead. Simon Schillinger (lead guitar), David Schuldis (rhythm guitar) and Cornerlius "Wombo" Heck (drums) are also active members of the black metal band, Cryptic Forest.

"Mach Dich Frei" or Free Yourself is the 4th full-length album of Finsterforst. Just like its predecessors, this one also procures lengthy songs. For instance the last song "Finsterforst" concludes the rest of the album with almost 24 minutes of sitting. The length of their songs and the similarity of compositions are reasons why they were often compared to Moonsorrow and were seen as clones, most especially in "... zum tode hin" in my opinion. Simon Schillinger after all admitted that Moonsorrow has helped shape the band's sound. I don't believe it is a bad thing either, although, this time around "Mach Dich Frei" takes a slightly different path. Some songs are rather slow and are more somber. There are more dramatic and darker effects here but less accordion and flute. Perhaps more black metal and modern than the expected Finsterforst sound. 

This new release adds a little twist to the identity of the band. It proves that they are capable of reinventing themselves without the use of the same previous formulas. This album makes the effort of sounding different in a good way, by far their most unique work. 


Tracklist
01. Abfahrt (00:58 )
02. Schicksals End' (14:49)
03. Zeit für Hass (09:44)
04. Im Auge des Sturms (01:38)
05. Mach Dich Frei! (07:50)
06. Mann gegen Mensch (09:33)
07. Reise zum... (05:33)
08. Finsterforst (23:54)
Label: Napalm Records
Distribution: Target (Denmark)
Artwork rating: 88/100
Reviewed by: Haydee G.
Date: 26 January, 2015
Website: www.finsterforst.de