REVIEW: DALRIADA – Igeret

 

DALRIADA – Igeret

AFM Records

The fusion of folk and medieval music with heavy metal has become a familiar territory within the metal scene, particularly in recent years. This trend has led to a surge of folk metal bands, many of which tend to follow a formulaic approach, often driven by opportunism—aiming for commercial success and fame rather than genuine artistic innovation. However, Hungarian ensemble DALRIADA distinguishes itself from this crowd, offering a more authentic and compelling musical experience.

“Igeret” showcases DALRIADA’s commitment to integrating traditional Hungarian folk elements into their heavy metal foundation, predominantly through the use of native language vocals and folk instrumentation. These choices imbue their sound with a sense of freshness and cultural authenticity that sets them apart from many contemporaries. While the album may not reinvent the folk metal genre, it successfully maintains a level of originality and vitality that appeals to both traditional folk metal enthusiasts and newcomers alike.

In terms of comparisons, DALRIADA’s style can be seen as a close relative to bands such as SKYCLAD, early ELVENKING (prior to their recent, less favorable albums), and KORPIKLAANI. Their approach combines the energetic riffing and melodic sensibilities characteristic of these bands with a distinctive Hungarian folk influence, creating a sound that is both familiar and refreshing.

“Igeret” does not aim to revolutionize the genre but offers a solid, engaging release with enough originality to captivate listeners seeking an alternative to the often predictable folk metal landscape. It stands out as a noteworthy addition to the genre—worthy of recommendation for anyone who appreciates well-crafted folk metal that stays true to its roots while offering a touch of individuality.

Nick Parastatidis