Shortly after the The Clans Are Marching EP (read the review here), German Power metallers REBELLION fulfil their schedule with the release of the final chapter of their Vikings history triplet. Arise: From Ginnungagap To Ragnarok - History of the Vikings Vol. III wraps up the saga built in 2005 with Sagas Of Iceland... and raised through Miklagard... anno 2007.
Featuring two known ex-GRAVE DIGGER members, Uwe Lulis and Tomi Gottlich, the band flirts a lot with a relevant sound, both due to the overall volume and Michael Seifert's throat. REBELLION also utilizes several elements found in the so-called Teutonic Metal style, without - on the other hand - getting even close enough to any candy Euro Power limelight. Before we proceed to something more in-depth, let's start by saying that this CD sounds good (in a 'Metal' sort of way). Mentioning names and tracks isn't always a fitting case, since the overall atmosphere is - for many - the key point on deciding to spend money on a CD nowadays.
Clarifying things a little bit, now, are you fans of GRAVE DIGGER music? Indeed, REBELLION walks on the same path while tying to bring on the Vikings saga via fast or pounding or epic drumming, furious or barbaric riffs and some harsh vocals paving the way for a general result being majestic here but kinda hilarious there. The drums sound could be more convincing, I think, but the guitars work sticks to your mind while some leads are honestly impressive; if you think, though, the music is kinda naive at times, no one will blame your ears. Acoustic parts, a warlike atmosphere were needed and a partial profile linked to the likes of e.g. AMON AMARTH or ICED EARTH are also crucial elements for REBELLION's taste in this attempt.
Arise...Vol. III exhibits a remarkable range of bewitching parts when it comes to piano/acoustic guitars time. The distortions know how to keep a low profile when the strings speak in the foreground, while at other times the songwriting seems to voluntary step off for the lyrics to depict a certain ambience (no lyrics in the promo copy, sorry). Connected to the previous two albums of the trilogy, Arise...Vol. III sounds somehow more mild. Strictly talkin' bout the songs' power, I'd vote for the Miklagard... predecessor. Still, it would be a difficult task to pick up one of the three parts and leave the other two intact. If you're a fan of e.g. the approach GRAVE DIGGER followed in their post 90s deeds or/and you like the Teutonic masters of Germany in the '90s, REBELLION won't disappoint for sure.