Founded by Alestorm frontman Christopher Bowes in 2009 Gloryhammer is based on a fantasy concept with an anthemic power metal approach that on the latest album “Legends From Beyond The Galactic Terrorvortex” takes you on a galactic journey with the glorious hero Angus McFife XIII.
“The Siege of Dunkeld (In Hoots We Trust)” begins with fancy symphonic arrangements and sumptuous choirs clearly reminiscent of many successful symphonic metal bands and certainly the whole song maintains a majestic flair with galloping guitar riffs and the consequent groovy energy necessary to face an important battle.
On “Masters of the Galaxy” the fight against the evil sorcerer continues with plenty of crunchy guitar riffs following a classic power metal style mid-tempo rhythm and this whole catchy ensemble ultimately leads to a playful sing-along chorus.
Celebrating the band’s name “Gloryhammer” is particularly pompous but that’s exactly what the fans would expect plus is full of 80’s style keyboards and steady guitar riffs creating a quite catchy rhythm spiced up by additional electro layers and smooth guitar soloing.
The mood of “Battle For Eternity” definitely matches the title as the band is ready to defend the kingdom with the ardent energy expressed by the groovy instrumental segments and the fierce vocal delivery while the opulent keyboards and the polished melodic guitars add dramatic depth.
On the grand finale “The Fires of Ancient Cosmic Destiny” Gloryhammer use all their tricks and talents to deliver a bombastic epic opus so get ready for another round of majestic symphonic arrangements enriched by some elegant classical accents, dazzling guitar melodies and massive power metal grooves obviously adorned by solemn choirs and theatrical narratives because this is a heroic tale.
It cannot be denied that “Legends From Beyond The Galactic Terrorvortex” is an entertaining album carefully crafted by Gloryhammer with evident skills but it might be truly appreciated almost exclusively by devoted lovers of cheesy power metal.