Skálmöld & Sinfóníuhljómsveit Íslands cover

Skálmöld & Sinfóníuhljómsveit Íslands

Skálmöld · 2013

197 min · 28 tracks · folk metal

Epic orchestral arrangements intertwine with thunderous metal riffs to create a narrative-driven soundscape steeped in Norse mythology.

Top tracks — play these first

  • →
    Loki — The lengthy composition builds dramatic tension through varying tempos and dynamics, capturing the chaotic essence of its mythological namesake.
  • →
    Fenrisúlfur — This track effectively combines aggressive instrumentation with haunting melodies, representing themes of destruction tied to Norse mythology.
  • →
    Sorg — With its somber atmosphere and poignant lyrics, this track encapsulates the album's exploration of loss and fate within Norse tales.

Is this for you?

Good fit if you like

  • epic narratives of mythology
  • long-form immersive listening experience
  • cathartic crescendos and climaxes
  • dynamic shifts in intensity
  • dramatic orchestral soundscapes

Maybe skip if you

  • prefer short standalone tracks
  • seek instant gratification

Where this album fits

Career context
In 2013, Skálmöld was emerging as a prominent force in the folk and viking metal scenes with their third studio album. Following their previous releases, 'Baldur' (2012) and 'Með Vættum' (2011), this collaborative project with the Iceland Symphony Orchestra marked a significant artistic expansion for the band, showcasing their ambition to blend heavy metal with classical elements.
Stylistic neighbors
Ensiferum· Amon Amarth· Korpiklaani

Tracklist

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

Disc 1

  • 1 Innrás 3:53
  • 2 Árás 6:41
  • 3 Gleipnir 4:05
  • 4 Narfi 4:25
  • 5 Sorg 5:34
  • 6 Loki 12:36
  • 7 Fenrisúlfur 6:18
  • 8 Miðgarðsormur 5:37
  • 9 Hel 6:13
  • 10 Kvaðning 11:23
  • 11 Baldur 12:25

Disc 2

  • 1 Heima 4:03
  • 2 Innrás 3:53
  • 3 Árás 6:40
  • 4 Gleipnir 4:43
  • 5 Upprisa 7:23
  • 6 Sleipnir 6:30
  • 7 Narfi 4:37
  • 8 Hefnd 5:26
  • 9 Sorg 5:49
  • 10 Loki 12:58
  • 11 Fenrisúlfur 7:06
  • 12 Miðgarðsormur 5:52
  • 13 Dauði 6:49
  • 14 Valhöll 5:23
  • 15 Hel 6:23
  • 16 Kvaðning 11:32
  • 17 Baldur 12:54

Reference: Wikipedia · MusicBrainz · Wikidata