Raising sparks of water splashes,
Drakkar rushes to the shore.
‘bout risk and death – not care a straw!
Poltroonery is the worst heartsore.
The dragon on the lifted prow
Lurks in the sanguine veil...
The surf is painted blood-red:
In war-wolves’ ens the war prevails.
Jump from the board to the abyss of waves,
On the edges of swords.
Clang of the steel turned into groan,
And laughter of bearded men.
Blow! Stab! Bucklers crack
Under the charge’s hard pressure!
And the smoke of coal black
Hides the skyline as treasure...
Fearlessly rush in the thick of the fight
Having disdained any danger.
Valkyries’ shadows are on the ground.
On the way to Valhalla you’re rangers!
In a hot hand the sword is firmly gripped.
The very last breath leaves your body.
From your wounds the crimson streams drip,
And heartbeats calms down...
Having tried the gist of hard fight,
Above death, ascend to the skies!
For ever brave and full of might,
Depart to the Halls, rising high!
Disappear as a hero, once for all time,
Remaining in minds and people’s hearts.
As a spangle – with flame, ash and grime,
In the blue sky – in a funeral pyre.
I'd say Havukruunu is the rightful holder of the Crown and the mantle of Quorthon. Epic choirs, vikingesque themes and tales from the other times, of the Finnish paganism back in the days before our ancestors were brought to the cross and forced to kneel while feeling the bloody sword of saviour on their throats made to kiss the hand of murderers who burnt thousands, tore down our holy places and took our holy days. Eyes teary I listen to these songs, never forgiving the crimes of the cross! Peikonmieli
Abigail Williams has had a weird career with hiatuses and lineup changes, but they have finally perfected their sound on Walk Beyond the Dark. This album has such a refreshing and natural feeling that makes it one of the top atmospheric black metal albums of recent years. Ryan