Pre-dating ENSIFERUM, FINNTROLL and ELUVEITIE, Germany's SUIDAKRA are one of the unsung gems of the European Folk Metal scene. Having churned out an impressive eleven albums already, "Realms Of Odoric" is a worthy addition to their discography, and is thirteen satisfying tracks of manly jigging. With violins and bagpipes cropping up throughout and a distinct Celtic feel, it is a perfect fodder for anyone that likes wearing kilts and drinking mead at summer festivals, but also enjoyable enough to suck in anyone watching curiously from the side lines too.

Inspired by long-time collaborator Kris Verwimp's "The Wall Of Doom" project, "Realms Of Odoric" is a concept record that tells the story of a nation plunged into war. With the distinctly Tolkien-ish artwork and doom-laden songs about rampaging hordes, it is atmospheric and engaging, making for a great soundtrack to a night spent reading David Gemmell books. Even if you don't pay too much attention to the story, there are loads to enjoy; and owning a twelve-sided dice isn't a prerequisite for getting into it.

Unlike a lot of their contemporaries, SUIDAKRA don't feel the need to keep bringing the Folk element to the forefront. There are a few songs here where Metal is the dominant factor. The Melodeath of "Lion Of Darcania" for instance, or the magnificent "Roads To Ruin" are hard hitting horn raisers that snarl and thrash like a pack of Wargs tearing apart the Rohirrim. They're also catchy enough to make AMON AMARTH take notice, bridging the gap nicely between raw sonic extremity and mainstream acceptance.

At the other end of the spectrum are the Folkier efforts. "Braving The End" is one highlight; a stripped back ballad in the final third that is surprisingly moving and brings to mind all those times George R.R. Martin killed off a popular character. First single "The Hunter's Horde" on the other hand is SUIDAKRA's answer to "Inis Mona;" a big, melodic anthem that's almost guaranteed to be a set-closer at some point with a melody you'll be humming after only one listen.

Elsewhere, "One Against The Tide" is a slab of muscular heroism that brings to mind blood-spattered, armour-clad giants hitting each other with swords, and "Undaunted" mixes things up with guest vocalist Tina Sobel taking the lead. And while SUIDAKRA don't always sound as epic as they perhaps intend, "Realms Of Odoric" isn't going to offend anyone that likes the other bands name-checked above. Be sure to check out Kris Verwimp too, the man has some skills with a pencil.