Have you ever sat down and wondered what it would be like to be a Viking, leading your hordes to new lands to conquer? No? I’m the only one? Oh… well, ahem. Anyways, Amon Amarth makes me feel like I’m finally achieving my life’s goal. Play their album Surtur Rising once through and it’s got the perfect recipe for metal – heavy guitars, killer drums and one of the best growls ever. The sound alone sets you into this fantasy world of pillaging and danger. But then you listen to the lyrics (or in my case, look them up on the internet) and it’s a totally different experience. This album takes you through the story of the giant Surtur who battled a god at Ragnarok. It’s actually better than pulling out the book and trying to figure it out yourself. The band gives the perfect soundtrack as lead singer Hegg growls you through the beginnings of war all the way to the rotting body of a warrior in a shallow grave. One of the songs on the album, “Live Without Regrets,”  takes you through the preparations for war. The Norsemen are all on the front lines, waiting for their first taste of blood in battle. It tells exactly how Norse warriors should face their fates with bravery and fight their hardest. Definitely the rally call needed for war and good advice for every day as well. What it all sums up to is this: Surtur Rising is one epic tale you don’t want to miss. If metal and epic tales of godly battles are both up your alley, then this a great way to spend a bit of your day.