The fusion of celtic mythological lore and crushing metal is a much revered combination of musical symbiosis. When done right, it takes the listener to a truly unique place otherwise not accessible with either genre apart. In step Celtachor - exploring themes of Irish history and mythology through black metal and folk - it makes for an interesting listen. Their third album ‘Fiannaiocht’ cuts down the centre with moments of shimmering traditional strings and flutes to contrast eviscerating brutality. Tracks ‘Sons of Morna’ and ‘King of Tara’ are fine examples of this, setting the record off with a breakneck tempo.

Taking inspiration from Irish Mythological hero Fionn Mac Cumaill, the album features instrumental tracks comprising of traditional bodhran and flute led excursions. ‘Great Ships Came from Over the Waves’ and ‘Tears of Aoife’ are charming pieces of music, but do feel a bit strangely placed and disrupt the records momentum. ‘The Battle on the Shore’ is one of the catchiest numbers of the bunch, but suffers slightly in its battlecry-esque bridge section. ‘Caoilte’ is a shining example of the band at their best, with interesting melodies and bone-crushing riffs galore.

While ‘Fiannaiocht’ is good overall, the contrasting song archetype is somewhat distracting. Frontman Stephen Roche is excellent when performing the harshier vocals, but the stanza-like moments in songs such as ‘Cauldron of Plenty’ are untoward and appear to serve little purpose. The song does end on a high note, with the final bridge being one of the albums high points courtesy of Anais Chareye’s machine gun drumming. A solid effort from Celtachor that is not without its flaws, but is an interesting piece that is worth a listen.

Record label: Trollzorn
Listen to: ‘Cauldron of Plenty’
Overall rating: 7/10

Check out the video for Sons of Morna here