From start to finish, this album is quite a treasure to behold. Artful and majestic, yet never overbearing or imposing, “Spirit” strikes a delicate balance between fragility and power. Graceful, captivating melodies give way to soaring choruses, and never relent in between. The entire album is an assortment of gripping anthemic tunes, devoid of any significant low points. The power and zest of songs such as “Tegernako” and “The Dance of Victory” are almost tangible. “Uis Elveti” was actually one taken from their previous EP, “Ven”, and remastered to a very favorable end, as it is arguably one of the best on the album. The intro in itself is a testament to the beauty and ethereality of the forthcoming tracks. In an age with so many clones and flavorless hybrids falling short of the mark, such a successful execution of styles is much appreciated. A suitable description of the music played by Eluveitie would be melodic folk metal in the vein of bands such as Suidakra or Equilibrium, with more emphasis on the folk aspect. A masterful amalgam of Celtic pagan metal and the Göthenburg sound, this album is a formula with all of the right ingredients. “Spirit” is driving and compelling, majestic and regal, and even playful at times. True to tradition and authentic, yet with a distinctive modern touch.Though low end production prevented Eluveitie from receiving much recognition or praise in the past, they have evolved and blossomed as musicians since “Ven” (not to mention, they’ve raised the production quality a few notches). Their boundless potential shines through in this latest release, and I have nothing but optimism for the prosperity of this “new wave of folk metal.” Folk metal fan or not, I would strongly advise that you look into this one.

written by Aura Harris

Playing time: 50.50