Svolk are the originators of Bear Metal, forged deep in the forests of East Norway they have been spreading their particular brand of hard rock since 2005. Now, if like me you are not up to speed on your bear metal;it’s pretty much stoner rock with a classic hard rock twist to it. There’s the fuzz and stomp of the stoner greats whilst they manage to hammer in a few Maiden-style gallops into the mix. This, not surprisingly, has pretty decent results!

There actual sound is pretty close to their Scandinavian neighbours, Grand Magus, who were also branded as a stoner band when they first appeared but in fact share more similarities with hard rock and metal greats of years gone by. Svolk are treading the same path here, they play hard rock in a true and simple style of rock riffs and good time songs. ‘Nights Under the Round Table’ is crammed full of thunderous rock stompers. There’s no better example than the lead single from the album ‘Painbringer’ which starts of with a Karma to Burn style bass rumble followed by a simple riff. Knut Erik‘s vocals are a warm and recognisable tone to many a good hard rock singer.

‘Nights Under the Round Table’ is exactly what you want and expect from a bunch of mullet and beard wearing Norwegians. It’s good honest rock n roll delivered by the fistful. It’s not to be taken too seriously and probably best served chilled!

7.5/10

‘Nights Under the Round Table’ is out 3rd Sept on Napalm Records

Rob W