Scythia are one of the few folk metal bands whose music can’t be pictured being performed by anyone other than Nordic warriors. It’s not just that the lyrics that have epic fantasy themes about traveling through dangerous valleys and getting into sword fights, but the music itself. Violins and flutes set the scene for ancient villages with blacksmiths and horse-drawn carts full of hay. Heavy guitar riffs and galloping drums prepare you for an epic battle in a blood-soaked field of the dead. The singing is beautiful, and at times a triumphant bellow of victory. Such a lovely blend of heavy and melodic should draw fans of both metal and folk music. (Independent, www.myspace.com/ScythiaFolkMetal) Paul Nordin
Winnipeg music & culture since 1989