There’s an array of metal bands across the globe that utilise Celtic themes, imagery and costumes. However, very few incorporate these elements with such passion and sincerity as Cruachan. As the founders of Irish folk-metal, they have created and defined their own genre of heavy music – and it is indisputably Irish. Their latest effort, Nine Years Of Blood, brings the listener through an odyssey of epic proportions.

The album’s opening tracks, ‘I Am Tuan’ and ‘Hugh O’Neill Earl of Tyrone’, immediately drop the listener onto the frontline of a Gaelic battle. The latter is a brilliant black metal excursion, imbued with the standard quotient of Irish lore. Throughout Nine Years Of Blood, Cruachan do a superb job of balancing both elements: the band’s black metal riffs dovetail nicely (well, nastily) with their folk influences: the bridge of ‘Blood And Victory’ is a crowning example.

In addition, vocalist Keith Fay is on top form, with tracks like ‘Flight Of The Earls’ showcasing his signature roar to stunning effect. The first half of the album simply does not let up, with the bodhrán-driven ‘The Harp, The Lion, The Dragon And The Sword’ among the catchiest and most unique numbers. Concluding with an anthemic take on Christy Moore’s ‘I Wish I Was Back Home In Derry’, Nine Years Of Blood – the final installment in Cruachan’s “trilogy of blood” – is an awesome exercise in majestic brutality. The flag for Irish metal is flying high.
Out now
8.5/10