The erosion of a Metal genre is a real feature that happens without many people observing this fact. The main cause of it is the great number of bands doing it, some with a true and sincere inclination for the style in question, others searching for easy success. But the main keyword used for those who aren't opportunists is simple: creativeness. Yes, the creative power allows any band to take a traditional Metal genre and it will sound alive and fresh. This is the case of "Sword of Korham", the first album from the German quintet THESE HANDS CONSPIRE.

They found a way to make a bridge between the heavy and old Doom Metal and the melodic and energetic form of traditional Heavy Metal. Ok, some bands already have done the same, but the way they sound is really very good. Even with the Doom Metal outfit, they dare to use some tempos that aren't usual in the genre, and the melodic lines make their work sound a bit more accessible to those that aren't fans of the style. The sound quality of the album is another very good point. The band declines the use of a moldy and raw production in favor of something clear and polished, so their melodic sense can be heard without problem. But at the same time, they have a good dose of musical aggressiveness that will be noted as well, and it fits perfectly in their musical work.

To be extremely honest, "Sword of Korham" has six very good songs, because the first is an intro and the last is an outro. All of them present very good work on vocals (Felix really sings in a very good way), the guitars are creating fine guitar riffs, being melodic or heavily aggressive when the music needs (Stefan and Tom really are doing e great work on riffs and solos), and Paul (bass guitar) and Sascha (drums) form a very good rhythmic session creating very good tempos and rhythmic changes.

"Praise to the Nova Rider" has a fine balance between musical aggressiveness with a fine melodic sense, showing good vocals; "The Beast Cometh" has heavy and catching tempos, hypnotizing fans with tasteful guitar riffs; on "The Inner Core of the Middle Sun", the bitter work of the guitars is excellent, with melodic lines that hook us all, even with all the heavy weight of the guitars; you'll feel a great rush of raw and catching energy on "The Battle of Sûr" that is a faster and melodic song, showing a good technical work on the tempos, where bass guitar and drums are really great; "Ambush at Antarox IV" is another energetic song, with bitter guitar riffs and with a very good dose of musical accessibility, and what good guitar solos. And on "Son of Korhan", there's a very deep and introspective atmosphere, inherit from the forefathers BLACK SABBATH, showing a dynamic work from vocals, bass guitar and drums.

It's not a masterpiece of Metal, and not something new at all, but it's truly very good. As "Sword of Korhan" is their first album, their future will be great as evolution and maturity take their toll.