EQUILIBRIUM ‘Sagas’ (Nuclear Blast) RATING: 8.5/10

By JEFF MAKI

“Epic Bavarian Polka?” That's how the press release describes Germany's Equilibrium, a band I was first introduced to on Nuclear Blast's viking and folk metal compilation, Pagan Fire. As bizarre as that may sound, the description fits well. Equilibrium have embraced their heritage and roots of Bavaria (the largest state of present day Germany and home of Oktoberfest) and have created a symphonic folk metal masterpiece.

The band's sound is triumphant and mighty, yet rowdy and fun, a perfect example being “Wurzelbert”. A viking metal Children of Bodom? Maybe so, as both the screeching vocals and symphonic elements are comparable. Aside from the almost danceable folk music that is the core of this band, Equilibrium play lightning fast, with thrash and black metal influences. The keyboards run absolutely wild on here. Let's put it this way; they could be used in any number of techno or dance songs and they'd fit just fine. And never mind the indecipherable vocals or the fact that their sung in German. It doesn't matter. The band displays amazing musicianship, using a wide array of native instruments, showing off any chance they can get. “Blut Im Auge” was the track featured on Pagan Fire, with catchy folk melodies running alongside blazing power metal. “Unbesiegt” is a barrel of fun with it's over-the-top, dancing keyboards, and is the song that most reminds me of Bodom. And yeah, you could dance to this one too. The epicness shines on “Die Weide Und Der Fluß” and the 16 minute album closer, “Mana.”

Sagas is exciting, new and unpredictable. While some may argue that this new wave of viking and folk metal is quickly playing itself out, I beg to differ. Equilibrium is the future of metal and the future is now. This is metal at it's most extreme and creative height. I'd also bet this would be a great album to get absolutely shit-faced to as it's equally as energetic and fun. Yeah, Equilibrium can be a tad ridiculous and is a large dose to take in, but take it and run with it. Sagas is a must hear