Haggard - Tales of Ithiria

\r\n“I hope you don’t fear
\r\nNeither do I
\r\nBring me my sword
\r\nAnd kiss me goodbye
\r\nThis time I hold you
\r\nHere in my arms
\r\nWill be the last”
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\r\nSynopsis
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\r\nTales of Ithiria is the fourth full-length album of the German symphonic/death metal band, Haggard. It was supposed to be released on June 2007 but due to unknown problems or reasons of the band it was postponed until August 2008 –a delay that made the fans of the band anticipate the album even more.
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\r\nOverview\r\n

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\r\nIf you are familiar with previous releases of the band, the first thing you’ll notice is that there are no experimentations: It is 100% pure Haggard with slight sound modifications which now seem clearer and deeper. To those new to this genre or Haggard in particular you’ll find sophisticated baroque melodies played by all instruments of its kind –from fiddle to cello and from clarinet to oboe. All of which are cleverly combined with blazing metal riffs, clear (comprehensive) grunt vocals as well as a soprano voice. Another change is the concept: Unlike previous albums which were inspired by great historical persons (Michel de Nostredame or Galileo Galilei), Tales of Ithiria is fiction, created by Haggard’s guitarist and lead singer Asis Naseri.
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\r\nConcept & Songs
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\r\nAsis’s voice greets the listener, introducing the peaceful land of Ithiria which is under attack and its people have nothing to defend it but pitchforks and axes. Here is a quick description of the most notable songs: The first song “Chapter I – Tales of Ithiria” guides the listener through the main feeling of the story: Pointless war and unjustifiable killing of innocent. “Chapter II – Upon Fallen Autumn Leaves” is a bright example of Haggard’s style: A balanced mix of epic choirs, enchanting melodies and of course, metal. “Chapter III – La Terra Santa” Is a touchy (and catchy) song from which I borrowed the lyrics opening this article. Nothing more to say about this one, it must be heard to be felt.  “Chapter IV – The Sleeping Child” is an epic, thundering tune which will make you grub whatever can be used as a weapon and march for the closest battle. Sadly, it’s the only hard headbanger of the album. “Hijo De La Luna” is a reprise from the Spanish band Mecano. The song first appeared in 1986 on Mecano’s album “Entre el cielo y el suelo”
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\r\nConclusion
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\r\nIt would be an exaggeration to say Tales of Ithiria is maybe one of the best of its kind but it’s surely close to the podium. A little less soprano and more growling Asis is what would make this album even better as well as a few guitar solos (there where only one!). To conclude, this album is a must have for both epic and death metal fans.
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\r\nManos "M For Metal" Alibertis\r\n

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