Sweden’s contribution to the world of music is undeniable, where would pop music be without ABBA and without the Stockholm scene the world of extreme music would be in a very different place to where it is today. Grand Magus are neither pop nor Death Metal but do certainly continue the tradition of high quality music from the land of the Northern Lights.

“Hammer Of The North” is the bands fifth album and yet Grand Magus could well be one of Metal’s best kept secrets; but this record is sure to change that fact! The band has shed their early reputation of being an out and out Stoner/Doom Metal band and has delivered a record that is pure Heavy Metal. What makes Grand Magus so unique is their ability to fuse influences as wide ranging as Bathory, Venom and Judas Priest into a potent mix which not only flows from song to song but has delivered a sound that is instantly recognisable as Grand Magus.

“Hammer Of The North” is the first album to be released via Roadrunner Records, and whether the label change has meant a larger recording budget only the band know but this record really benefits from an enhanced production quality. Album opener “I, The Jury” is bursting at the seams with Heavy Metal heritage and is a tone setter for the rest of the album. Much of the bands dynamism is driven my front-man JB, not only is he accomplished guitarist but also possibly one of the most underrated (Metal) vocalists out there today. While not carrying perhaps the range of a Halford or Dickinson, JB’s vocals are more akin to the likes of Dio, all based around a powerful delivery sat on top catchy riff after catchy riff.

“Hammer Of The North” is as strong an album as you’re likely to listen to in 2010. At no point do you get the feeling that a particular song is being used as filler, with each standing up to scrutiny in its own right. “Mountains Be My Throne” is perhaps the most immediately appealing song on offer but whatever your mood there is something to quell your Metal urges; be it the Sabbath inspired title track or the Motorhead infused “Northern Star”, there really is something for everyone.

Bands all too often are architects of their own demise, over reaching themselves and expanding their sound to the point that the record looses direction, with songs conflicting rather than complimenting one another. Not so Grand Magus. “Hammer Of The North” maintains the bands steadfast Heavy Metal ethics while still looking to provide progression from their last offering, “Iron Will”. There is little doubting Grand Magus are quickly becoming a Metal, and while “Hammer Of The North” is not quite up there with “Number Of The Beast” or “British Steel”, the band continue to impress and confound with their brilliance