Folk Metal, you either love it or hate it. At least, that's what I've always believed. I know I always love it if the circumstances are right, if the idea behind the music is genuine, and of course when the music is able to blow you away. in the case of CRUACHAN we are dealing with a band that has been around for a lengthy amount of time. In fact, since 1992, when they were called MINAS TIRITH. They changed their name to CRUACHAN in 1993, and except for a pause from 1997 until 1999, they have been pestering our ears ever since. They hail from Ireland, and really know how to treat our ears to some strange but fitting musical endeavours.

"The Living And The Dead" is their ninth full length album, and I have heard some, but not all of their former music. Even reviewed a few. And to be fair, I have never found the band lacking in authenticity of sincerity. Plus, they always have had a way to make sure you notice whatever they release. And it's also a fact for me that I never disliked them, but neither did they rock my boat in a major way. So you can understand that I was rather glad that I have to type that I really can't think of anything I experienced or remember from their past that is as impressive as "The Living And The Dead". This really has everything you would expect from a proper Folk Metal album. It goes from very slow, very Folk-like to extremely heavy and thrashy, and everything in between.

If I were to compare this to anything, it would be to the Martin Walkyier era of SABBAT. That to me was the best ever had to offer. Until now, that is. CRUACHAN is a little more Folk than Thrash than SABBAT was, so yes, of course you will hear the violins very often, but they do serve a purpose, as do the very Irish lyrics and tones. What is the deciding factor that this is good is that everything is being done to enhance the song, amplify it's importance and meaning. And because of all the variations in intensity and tempo, "The Living And The Dead" never has a dull moment. I really do think that CRUACHAN have surpassed themselves on this album, making it something to be fecking proud of!