A Forlorn Throne cover

A Forlorn Throne

Slechtvalk · 2010

61 min · 9 tracks · pagan metal

Epic melodies intertwine with harsh vocals, crafting a rich soundscape that evokes ancient battles and mythological tales.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Tamers of the Seas — This opening track introduces the album's grand themes with sweeping melodies and powerful instrumentation, setting a tone that resonates throughout the record.
  • →
    Forsaken — The lengthy arrangement showcases complex song structures and dynamic shifts, encapsulating the band's ability to blend aggression with melodic intricacies.
  • →
    Vengeance of a Scorned King — This track features a compelling narrative arc that highlights emotional intensity through both lyrical content and musical composition, making it a standout moment on the album.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

AI-generated from five scored dimensions. An opinion, not a measurement.

50 /100
Foothills
Higher than 23% of albums we've rated

The album combines harsh and melodic elements effectively, though it shows some conventional structures and pacing issues.

What we noticed

  • Each track typically follows a verse-chorus structure, but often includes extended instrumental sections that build tension and atmosphere.
  • The pacing varies significantly; some tracks maintain a relentless tempo while others slow down to create dramatic contrasts.
Composition 25% of the score
7/10

the writing — melody, harmony, structure, lyrics

Craft 20% of the score
6/10

production, performance, arrangement

Durability 25% of the score
6/10

whether it rewards returning to it

Distinctiveness 18% of the score
6/10

whether it sounds like itself

Sequencing 12% of the score
5/10

running order, pacing, length

Influence 2/10

Little footprint beyond its audience. Reported but not counted — how far a record travelled describes its reception rather than the record, and a newer release has had less time to travel than an older one.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • epic soundscapes for grand moments
  • narrative arcs of mythological tales
  • immersive journeys through ancient battles
  • intense emotional crescendos throughout
  • reflective moments amidst harsh vocals

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer light, upbeat music
  • want concise, radio-friendly tracks

Where this album fits

Career context
Released in 2010, A Forlorn Throne is Slechtvalk's third studio album, following their previous release, The War That Plagues Our Hearts (2008). At this point in their career, the band was solidifying their unique blend of symphonic elements and pagan metal influences, establishing a more mature sound while continuing to explore themes of mythology and nature.
Stylistic neighbors
Eluveitie· Finntroll· Korpiklaani

Tracklist

Best experienced from track one — press play and let it unfold.

  • 1 Tamers of the Seas 4:37
  • 2 Forsaken 8:31
  • 3 Desolate 6:28
  • 4 Divided by Malice 7:11
  • 5 Allegiance 7:51
  • 6 Enthroned 8:32
  • 7 Bewailed 5:17
  • 8 Towards the Dawn 7:35
  • 9 Vengeance of a Scorned King 5:42

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata