Draconian Darkness II
Wolfheart

If you see the roman numerals for number two behind a title, it usually means there is a number one as well. In the case of WOLFHEART, that is the case, but whereas "Draconian Darkness I" is a full album, this "Draconian Darkness II" is an EP of just over 20 minutes. It is filled with Melodic Death Metal mixed with Epic Rock and Metal and it apparently has been recorded to be played alongside the original album. WOLFHEART originates from Lahti in Finland and have been a band since 2013. In the twelve years of existence they have given us seven studio albums and one EP before this one. And as usual when you read my reviews, I haven't had the opportunity or chance to listen to any of them, as I never encountered WOLFHEART before now.
The first two songs on the "Draconian Darkness II" EP are pure and unadulterated Melodic Death Metal, but you can hear that the band has more up their sleeve. In "Carnivore" as well as "Forefathers" you can experience how WOLFHEART is able to mix choir singing with speedy Death metal rhythms without breaking a sweat. That to me is a confirmation that we are dealing with some very good musicians who are proper educated song writers as well, with a knack in arranging everything accordingly. After this you get three songs that were on "Draconian Darkness I". "Burning Sky" is played live, and the band showcases that they can actually replicate their music on stage in a very good way. Then you get the acoustic version of "The Gale". Somehow, I don't think that this one is any less impressive than the original, as the band is able to give it a very Heavy feeling, even though it is very light in appearance. What does get your attention is that singer/guitarist Tuomas Saukkonen has a very good clean voice.
"Draconian Darkness II" ends with an orchestral version of "Grave". Again I have to admit that the band has got it right. This one hits the mark. It is a testament to the fact that WOLFHEART not only has the experience, but also know how to put all of that to good use as well. And even though all songs are good in their own rights, none of them come up trumps as exceptional for me. But rest assured; I don't think/feel that listening to "Draconian Darkness II" by WOLFHEART was punishment in any way or form.
7 / 10
Good
Songwriting
Musicianship
Memorability
Production

"Draconian Darkness II" Track-listing:
1. Carnivore
2. Forefathers
3. Burning Sky (Live)
4. The Gale (Acoustic)
5. Grave (Orchestral)
Wolfheart Lineup:
Tuomas Saukkonen – Vocals, Guitars
Vageliss Karzis – Guitars, Vocals
Lauri Silvonen – Bass, Vocals
Joonas Kauppinen – Drums
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