Listening to VHÄLDEMAR nowadays, after I haven't done so for the past several years, has me a bit in a puzzlement. How come nothing major happened with this group? Is it their decision to remain in the same status or it is actually comfortable? Like any speculation that couldn't be answered, I might just leave it be and wonder about the music rather than the inner politics or market demand. Anyway, the veteran Spanish Power Metal band signed with the new local sub-label of Xtreem Music, Fighter Records, for the release of their fifth album to be released in the coming months. However, there is nothing better than to draw you into their realm than a brand new EP, a follower to a double reissue of their first two albums, titled "Old King's Visions".

The bombastic European Power Metal of the late 90s, early 00s, has been an integral part of VHÄLDEMAR since day one. I have always found similarities to the Italian legacy of the melodic Metal subgenre, acts such as RHAPSODY / VISION DIVINE / LABYRINTH among others. Similar to their previous releases, on "Old King's Visions" nearly everything sounds pompous, fairly energetic and swarming with dramatic elements. Furthermore, I think that one of their major powerhouses is their longtime singer, Carlos Escudero, displaying passionate soaring vocals that hovers above the band's musical might. This band aimed to create hits and they made the right selection of tracks as a teaser on this EP.

"Howling At The Moon" displays the band's Melodic Power Metal intensity, amazing guest performance by the unknown Ruben Miranda which clearly inserted additional energies and grace to the song. With a driving chorus, smooth and well written song and victorious sensation, I believe that VHÄLDEMAR won the jackpot with this one. "Gorgar", an insanely heavy version for the old HELLOWEEN classic out of their debut. Carlos Escudero is a vocalic beast and the song's chorus is like an iron pound on an anvil. A well picked cover that shows the band's Heavy Metal respect and devotion. "1366 (Old King´s Visions Part V)" is a classic European Power Metal of the late 90s, early 00s, melodic guitaring and overhaul of keyboards to attribute the atmosphere. Once again I witnessed a fierce vocal line with that special Spanish accent that added an Epic proportion to the song. Finally, there is the Heavy Metal hymn, "I Will Stand Forever". As much as it is a cliché, it came out as a good song, delivering the 80s right in the face, so who am I to say no?

It is just a teaser, sometimes it is irritating, especially if it is good. Let's hope that these songs won't be the only thing grand out of the upcoming album.