Conquering Swords

The debut full-length from Swedish quartet Templar, 'Conquering Swords' is an exercise in traditional heavy metal, recalling the first wave of Swedish metal and the NWOBHM with its galloping rhythms, soaring twin-guitar harmonies, and raw, analog-tinged production. Lyrical themes are drawn from epic and medieval fantasy, with song titles referencing mythology and heroic sagas that complement the music's adventurous and nostalgic character. The album solidifies the band's position within the modern classic metal movement, praised for its energetic conviction and adherence to established genre forms.