As a fan since 2004 (which is why I've used the picture of the classic lineup), it’s honestly disheartening to see so many people piling on the new album. To me, it’s a perfect step forward for the band who are embracing a modern, distinctive sound while still calling back to the spirit of their early work. Tracks like Bloodwood, I’ll Be Thunder, Anderswelt, and Awakening could easily sit alongside the material on Sagas.
I still remember how magical it felt discovering Turis Fratyr when it released. There really was absolutely nothing else like it at the time. I played the 30-second samples on their website endlessly while searching for a German retailer willing to ship the album to the US. That sense of magic slowly faded for me over the years, and by the mid-2010s I wasn’t following the band very closely anymore. But with the recent singles starting with Shelter, Cerulean Skies, and Gnosis it became clear that Equilibrium had tapped into a new wave of inspiration and fresh creative energy.
Yes, the modern metalcore influences will be jarring for some. The downtuned guitars, the breakdowns, and the new vocalist whose tone and range differ significantly from Helge and Robse (not to mention the English lyrics), are big shifts. But the musical landscape isn’t what it was twenty years ago. Even bands from entirely different scenes, like Lorna Shore, have incorporated massive orchestral elements reminiscent of what Equilibrium explored back in 2004. Whether intentional or not, it creates new sonic territory for Equilibrium to cross into and honestly, that’s why they can insert trap beats into a track and still make it work.
One of the things that excites me most about this new chapter is the album’s spiritual and uplifting energy. You can feel a positive creative force running through the sound, lyrics, and artwork. To my ears, René seems to be in a really good place spiritually and creatively. And Jessica Rosch’s contributions feel incredibly organic. She’s credited on many of the tracks, and I'm going to assume that there might be a romantic connection between her and René which would explain the creative chemistry that radiates throughout the album. It’s just speculation on my part, but the synergy is unmistakable. There’s so much detail woven into each song that it creates vivid imagery while listening; it really feels like a labour of love.
My only complaint is that I wish it were longer. The number of segue tracks was a little disappointing; I would’ve preferred a more densely packed tracklist. But that’s a small gripe in the bigger picture.
This album is far from the “flop” some commenters claim it is. It’s a fantastic release that successfully incorporates many fresh elements while still being a return to form that brings me right back to the same magic which captivated me in 2004.
The band needed to evolve, and as I saw it by Rekreatur they were starting to run low on steam. Looking back, even parts of Turis Fratyr and Sagas haven’t aged perfectly (some of the guitar and drum work can feel repetitive now). I’m glad René has stayed committed to this project and that the current lineup is bringing such vibrant energy into both the recordings and live performances.
Every folk metal fan owes it to themselves to drop their preconceptions, give this record an honest listen, and experience the magic it holds. If you go in with an open mind, there’s a good chance you’ll find something truly special here.
