What makes Blood of Heroes by Graveland notable?

Blood of Heroes is significant for its embodiment of the pagan black metal genre, influencing subsequent bands with its grandiose sound and thematic focus on heroism and mythology. It received positive reviews from niche metal publications, contributing to Graveland's reputation as a key player in the underground black metal movement. Released in 2002, Blood of Heroes marked Graveland's exploration of thematic depth following their earlier works, solidifying their position within the black metal scene. This EP came after the critically acclaimed album, Thousand Swords, and showcased a shift towards more intricate compositions and lyrical storytelling.

How many songs are on Blood of Heroes?

Blood of Heroes has 2 tracks, running approximately 13 minutes.

Blood of Heroes

Graveland · 2002

13 min · 2 tracks · black metal

Epic melodies intertwine with fierce vocals, crafting an atmosphere that evokes both battle and ancient myth.

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Top tracks — play these first

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I Am What They Fear — This track opens the EP with a powerful declaration, featuring relentless drumming and soaring melodies that establish Graveland's signature style. Its intense energy encapsulates the album's themes of fear and defiance.
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Blood Of Heroes — The title track combines orchestral elements with traditional black metal aggression, representing the culmination of the EP's narrative about valor and legacy. Its anthemic chorus invites listeners into an epic journey.

Elevation

Our rating, out of 100 — and why.

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

58 /100

Treeline

Higher than 49% of albums we've rated

The EP's thematic depth and atmospheric sound contribute to its solid standing in the black metal genre.

What we noticed

The EP features two lengthy tracks, each over six minutes, allowing for extended development of themes and motifs.
Both tracks utilize layered guitar harmonies that create a rich, atmospheric soundscape typical of epic black metal.
Vocals alternate between fierce growls and melodic chants, enhancing the mythological themes present in the lyrics.

Composition 25% of the score: 7/10
Craft 20% of the score: 6/10
Durability 25% of the score: 6/10
Distinctiveness 18% of the score: 7/10
Sequencing 12% of the score: 8/10

Influence 4/10

Known within its scene. 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.

Tracklist

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

1 I Am What They Fear 6:26
2 Blood Of Heroes 7:25

What to play next

Listen next

The Fire of Awakening

2003

Go back to

Memory and Destiny

2002

Full Graveland discography Artists like Graveland

black metal

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata