CLAYMOREAN – Eternal Curse

Описание: CLAYMOREAN – Eternal Curse
Stormspell Records
Serbian epic metal force CLAYMOREAN is back with “Eternal Curse”, their fourth full-length release and perhaps their most confident statement to date. Rooted in the traditions of classic heavy and power metal, the album draws on the larger-than-life sound of bands like MANOWAR, MANILLA ROAD, VIRGIN STEELE, and CIRITH UNGOL, while also channeling the melodic sensibilities of HAMMERFALL and the commanding presence of WHITE SKULL. It's a passionate and dynamic release that fans of epic metal in all its forms will likely find rewarding.
At the helm is Dejana Garcevic, whose soaring and gritty vocal performance anchors the entire record—evoking the spirit of Federica De Boni with both power and emotion. The album runs just under 49 minutes, featuring eight original tracks plus a CD-exclusive bonus: a faithful and fiery cover of KISS’s “The Oath” (originally from their “Music from The Elder” album), a deep cut that fits remarkably well with the album’s mythic and heroic themes.
The record opens with “Overture 1914,” a stirring instrumental dedicated to those who perished in the Battle of Kolubara. It sets a solemn, cinematic tone before launching into the martial stomp of “By This Sword We Rule” and “Under the Sign of the Cross,” both rich in melody, riffs, and themes of war, honor, and conviction.
Midway through, “Battle Born” and “300” deliver some of the album’s most anthemic moments, with tight, dual-guitar leads and rhythm work that’s both thunderous and melodic. “Wind Before the Storm” stands out as well, bolstered by a blazing guest solo from Srdan Bilic, adding a fresh spark to the record’s second half.
The title track, “Eternal Curse,” offers a darker, more brooding atmosphere, with lyrics by Matt DeVries that add an extra layer of mysticism. Meanwhile, *“Bannockburn” closes the main album on a sweeping, historic note, incorporating lines from 18th-century Scottish poet Robert Burns into a tribute to the legendary battle. As a bonus, the band’s rendition of “The Oath” (originally written by Stanley, Ezrin, and Powers) feels like a hidden gem—paying homage to classic hard rock roots while still firmly grounded in CLAYMOREAN’s epic sound.
Production is clean yet heavy, handled by Boris Šurlan, and the overall package is thoughtfully put together—complete with full-color artwork by Anton Atanasov, a 12-page booklet of lyrics and band photos, and a polished layout by Mumintroll.
In short, “Eternal Curse” is a no-nonsense epic metal record, steeped in history, myth, and battle-hardened conviction. It doesn't chase trends—it celebrates the genre’s enduring spirit with skill and sincerity. Whether you're a longtime devotee of classic epic metal or just looking for an honest, passionate heavy metal album, this one is well worth your time.
For fans of: MANOWAR, MANILLA ROAD, VIRGIN STEELE, CIRITH UNGOL, HAMMERFALL, WARLORD, WHITE SKULL, and true steel in all its forms.
Nick Parastatidis