Another band with a strange name which makes some people (including me) think they are getting too old (and too cold?) for Metal. Referring to the band the name is of Scandinavian origin and could be translated with the term “outlaw”, accordingly it is a honour to the founder(?) of Normandy, namely Rolfr Utlagr. The album title should ring a bell to everyone interested in history (I am not referring to the famous chess-tournament which takes place in Hastings every year), the battle of Hastings and William the conquerer served as inspiration for quite a few bands. So, chliché-breathing band-name and album-title, but luckily the second release by UTLAGR is quite refreshing. The lyrics and the band’s self-image may point into the Pagan direction, but musically Death Metal is served. Typical Scandinavian Death Metal, fast played with those epic melodies, bands like DISSECTION or NAGLFAR may give you a hint about the sound of UTLAGR. At its best moments this output reminds me of the brilliant UNANIMATED. Due to the Pagan image I fear the band is getting not the attention they may deserve – if Sepuchral Productions would not have sent me the promo I probably never listened to “1066 – Blood And Iron In Hastings”. The first album, already re-released, is unkown to me, so I do not know if they changed their style and the Pagan-fans are disappointed and honestly, I do not care. All Metalheads interested in fresh, melodic Death Metal, all those who still adore old IN FLAMES / DARK TRANQUILLITY or the above mentioned bands should take a closer look respectively listen to what the band is offering on their homepage. www.utlagr.net. Label contact: www.sepulchralproductions.com