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KALMAH (FIN) “Swamplord” (2000) [SPIKEFARM Records]
When I put “Swamplord” in the CD player my first consideration was about how much this band is skilled and how this album is well played and supported by a great production. The fans of Eternal Tears of Sorrow will be surely grateful to the members of the band who decided to give new “life” to Kalmah (previously called Ancestor and playing thrash metal!) to spread their huge inspiration. As fans of melodic death metal after listen to the excellent “Chaotic Beauty”, you will probably get this one too. Instead, if you like to have more assorted musical collection, I must tell you that even if “Swamplord” is a great album, the last ETOS “Chaotic beauty” is difficult to exceed and it impressed me more about variety.
Some other listeners will also wonder why they need to start playing the same style in another band: wasn’t ETOS enough to express their ideas? Don’t ask me, only the band can answer to this. Anyway, is this so important?
Of course, it’s pretty natural to compare the 2 bands which in some aspects are like peas in a pod. Are you so surprised by this? I expected it as I know how it’s difficult to sound different playing the same style.
Yes, this could be another good quality ETOS release!
Reviewed by Lidia Buscaino
[20 May 2001]