To call NOMANS LAND a Pagan Metal trend-setter would be a little exaggerated, but nobody can ignore the fact that they had been one of the first Pagan acts from Russia. But even 13 years of constant dedication to this scene cannot change the fact that the band is lacking (at least since their former release “Raven’s Flight”) two major things – progress and passion. This starts with a more than unsuitable album cover which is hardly offering a connection to the Pagan universe and / or the album title – the cover by German Dragon Design seems to be far more suitable for the next Power / Fantasy Metal act from Italy. All presented eight songs on “Farnord” are nice – I really want to avoid the world standard – Pagan Metal which will for sure harm nobody but nearly all songs are played in the same speed and the arrangements are very seldom an ear catcher – one exception from to the rule is ‘Ulvsjar’. With strong in house competition by leading acts like ARKONA I really doubt that the fourth NOMANS LAND release can open any “stargate” to a bright future. www.einheit-produktionen.de, www.nomansland.ru, www.myspace.com/nomanslandrus