Swedish power metal band The Storyteller has signed a new record deal with Greek-based label The Circle Music. Under the new agreement, the band will release their long-awaited seventh full-length album, The Final Stand, on 25th April.
The album’s first single was ‘They Will Fear Our Battlecry’. Described as a powerful anthem of defiance, paints a vivid picture of a final battle. A desolate battlefield, teeming with monstrous hordes on one side and a valiant alliance on the other, sets the stage for an epic clash. The single captures the clan leader’s inspiring speech to his troops, a rallying cry against the forces of darkness.
It’s just been followed by ‘Fields Of Blood And Steel’, a tale of desperate defense and unwavering resolve during war-time. The song transports listeners to a plateau overlooking a serene beach, now invaded by a hostile army. Witness the allies, the island’s defenders, as they prepare for a desperate stand against overwhelming odds. “We make our stand on the fields of blood and steel – either we die or will be free,” the chorus cries, encapsulating the fierce spirit of those willing to sacrifice everything for their home.
You can check out videos for both singles here at RAMzine.
“We are proud to announce the signing of Swedish heavy metallers The Storyteller,” said The Circle Music. “The Storyteller is the first heavy metal band to join The Circle. This was not done on purpose. Although we have focused on more extreme aspects of the dark sound, we have long expected something special from the field of traditional heavy/power metal, something that stood out and we found this in the new material of The Storyteller.
“Dreamy, fairytale, crystalline, hot and bombastic, their new songs will captivate traditional heavy metal fans looking for something more. “Having already released six albums and with a long career in the concert scene, it’s time for The Storyteller to take the big step with an album that picks up where their historic 2000 self-titled debut left off.”
Formed in 1998, the band signed their first record deal with Swedish label House Of Kicks that now goes with the name Sound Pollution. Their debut album The Storyteller was recorded at Studio Fredman and released in the Spring of 2000.
Since then the band has released five more studio albums and made themselves known as one of Sweden’s stronger acts in the power metal genre, touring as an opening act for bands like Helloween, Blind Guardian, Gamma Ray, Sonata Arctica, Stratovarius, Bruce Kulick (ex Kiss).
The Storyteller describe their music as power metal with medieval tunes, with lyrics that follow the fantasy genre. Storytelling is a trademark for the band, with the vision of taking the listener on a journey both musically and in lyrics.
After a period of dormancy, The Storyteller is said to have “once again awoken with a new source of power that captured the vision that was present at the band’s inception.” The collaboration between L-G Persson (vocals) and Cedrick Forsberg from Blazon Stone resulted in a new studio album being recorded, about which Persson commented: “This is the production that managed to reach all the way. In this production, the music reflects the vision that was there right from the start. For the first time it feels that everything is at the top of the game.”
Praise for the new album has been coming in ever prior to release. Dream Evil‘s Niklas Isfeldt said: “I got the opportunity to get a pre-listening to The Storyteller‘s latest album. This album is a must-listen for any power metal fan. It is a masterful blend of fantasy and metal, brought to life by the exceptional talent of L-G Persson one of the greatest metal voices in Europe. This album not only reaffirms The Storyteller‘s place in the pantheon of power metal but also sets a new standard for the genre. I hope you enjoy the album as much as I enjoyed writing about it!”
Jaguar‘s Garry Pepperd said: “I’ve been listening to this album on pre-release, the band, led by my good friend Lars ‘LG’ Persson have returned in blistering form, carefully blending power and melody in their own unique style. Essential listening for fans of the genre!!”
Majestica and ex-Sabaton member Tommy Johansson said: “The new Storyteller album is absolutely amazing!! It’s a glorious mix of nordic folk melodies and guitar driven power metal! I can’t help but to think of the early Blind Guardian albums when I hear this – and that’s a good thing!! L-G’s strong voice fits like a glove to the songs and after listening to Storyteller for many years I wouldn’t lie if I said that this might be their best album in my opinion!”
Firewind, ex-Ozzy Osbourne and ex-Dream Evil guitarist Gus G said: “The Storyteller continues to deliver epic power metal and blending Nordic folk elements in their own unique style. Great melodies and vocals from L-G throughout the album. Power metal fans, you must check this out!”
