All customer reviews by Graham R.
Posted on: 21 Dec 2014
Rally Now To Fight For Ithiria!
Another gothic masterpiece from the German maestros, Haggard and, as ever, it is worth the wait. Rather than just review the album (which is fantastic) and repeat the superlatives of others, I shall review this boxed set format instead and tell you what you actually get for your money. First of all, the album itself is in a card "wallet"-type sleeve, as is to be expected (it has to fit inside the box after all) which faithfully reproduces the artwork from the other editions. The same is true of the 20 page lyric booklet and the outer card box, both of which are beautifully illustrated, laid out and executed. All very nice and classy so far -so why the box? Well, you also a get sew-on patch with the Haggard logo in white on black, 4cm high and 20 cm long and guaranteed to look very cool indeed on your denim or leather jacket or even sewn onto the bum of your jeans. Considering that simple logo patches normally cost three or four quid each on their own, this is actually a pretty cool freebie. Given that the whole package of CD, booklet, box and patch is currently available on EMP at a greatly reduced price, this is a bargain not to be sniffed at. I got mine with EMP bonus points so it was effectively free -thanks again, EMP! I raise my horn in your honour.
Posted on: 21 Dec 2014
The Wolves Died Fast!
Great track from "Pariah's Child" and just as it was a logical choice for an album opener, so is it an obvious choice for a single. Available as a limited edition single in a digi-pack, this is perhaps one strictly for the collectors. The packaging is beautiful, particularly the front cover -which should have been a t-shirt design too! However, the music offers nothing new for fans: the album version and a slightly shorter "Radio Edit". Personally, I prefer singles and EP's which offer material not otherwise on albums, especially when it's unreleased studio recordings and radically different versions (acoustic, orchestral, etc.) of favourites and not just live tracks and "demo versions". I bought this item with EMP Bonus Points, so it was effectively free (thanks, EMP!) but if cash is an issue, maybe stick to the album. Still a great cover though... EMP, make this into a t-shirt PLEASE!
Posted on: 9 Dec 2013
Thor Himself Would Approve!
Through raw talent, dedication to their art and persistence of vision for over twenty years, the name of Amon Amarth has become synonymous with Viking Metal. It is only logical, therefore, that they should license exclusively to EMP, the gods of quality band merchandise this wonderful design with that most iconic of Norse gods, Thor. On the front, a bold skull motif, on one sleeve, their famous logo -all beautifully executed but the real joy is the backprint: a marvellous depiction of Thor seated on his throne in the Halls of Asgaard with trusty Mjolnir ever-ready by his side. As with all EMP merchandise, the printing is of the highest quality and the basic hoodie is warm, comfortable and well made. I bought this excellent garment for my shield maiden for her birthday and she was delighted and wears it all the time. What more could a warrior ask for?