Fer De Lance – The Hyperborean

Fer De Lance

The Hyperborean

by Dave "That Metal Guy" Campbell at 25 May 2022, 10:25 AM

“The Hyperborean” tells the story of a mariner who leaves the depravity and injustice of the “civilized” world in search of a land devoid of pain and suffering. The mariner’s adventure is detailed in Adam Burke’s cover art — at the forefront, the temple represents both the starting place and the civilization that the mariner aims to leave behind. The aurora borealis and the mountain of ice represent the desolate destination and the stars above, the guide. The mariner and his crew follow the stars in the hope of salvation. However, what they find is not what they expect and those left unburied never cross Acheron. The album contains seven tracks.

“Aurora Borealis” opens the album. It’s a short, mood-setting instrumental, with the sounds of churning seas. Acoustic guitars and the tin whistle tell an ominous tale that is to come. “The Mariner” thunders in with heavy rhythms followed by some melodic elements in the acoustic guitars. The vocals are semi-harsh and echo with reverb. A melodic interlude carries some lighter elements between the calamity. “Ad Bestias” opens with more weighted and hasty elements, as the subject crosses turbulent waters in reach of salvation. At times, the vocals have a Bruce Dickinson edge to them. The charming acoustical guitars represent fleeting moments of hope.

“Sirens” is a slower and more deliberate song with punishing opening tones from a monumental riff. In the background, wails from the mythical beast can be heard. The song produces moments of warning. The temptation to give into their beauty is almost too much, but it would cost you your life. “Northern Skies” begins with another slow pace of charming acoustic guitars amidst a heavy backdrop of the riff. As the tale goes, you can use the Northern Skies to navigate. For just a few moments, the crew feels free. The vocals get just a little pitchy in the upper ranges. “Arctic Winds” represents a turning point in the journey. They are cold and ruthless, and just when you think you might have found salvation, the frigid winds threaten to take your very life.

“The Hyperborean” closes the tale. It’s an eleven-minute conclusion which begins with mellow acoustic guitars and calm seas. Has the crew found the golden ring? Grandiose tones would suggest a destination. Lead guitars pick up the emotions here. Acheron is the river in Greek Mythology that crosses into the realm of death. Harsh vocals point to the realization of that is where the crew is headed. Overall, I really enjoyed the tale here, and found that the music reflected the various emotions across the journey quite well. The band walks you through them with careful consideration and powerful, emotional music. This album will appeal to a wide variety of listeners, but especially to ones who can appreciate a story to go along with the music.

Songwriting: 8
Musicianship: 8
Memorability: 8
Production: 8