While so-called "pagan metal" bands seem to be popping up around every corner lately, trying to conform to current trends instead of coming up with ideas of their own, SUIDAKRA have stayed true to the sound that they have become known for. Reaching new heights in their fifteen year history, the German Celtic metallers return full steam ahead with their 10th studio album, "Book Of Dowth".
Combining fast melodic death metal, Irish folk music, and a torrent of harmonies, they demonstrate yet again the ability blend several different influences into their unique sound. To put a spin on things, the new album contains some fresh elements, e.g. highland bagpipes or a mandolin. Recorded at Gernhart Studios with producer Martin Buchwalter, "Book Of Dowth" delivers a powerful dose of ear candy. But the eyes and mind will also be pleased, as famous Belgian graphic artist Kris Verwimp is responsible not only for the magnificent artwork in the digipack and 16-page booklet, but also for the lyrics of this fascinating concept album. "Book Of Dowth" can interpreted best as "Book of darkness" and it deals with the sinister side of Celtic mythology.
With overwhelming reactions to their previous releases, SUIDAKRA have performed over 300 live shows, including six stints at the world famous Wacken Open Air festival, as well as completing several tours in Europe, Russia and North America. In March 2009, the band successfully took part in a four week tour around the US and Canada. In June 2009 SUIDAKRA played 4 highly-acclaimed shows in China before the band travelled to the UK for a 6-show tour in November with Anvil and Saxon. The first half of 2010 marked several shows throughout Europe in Spain, Portugal, France, Switzerland as well as another North American Tour in the US (including a performance at SXSW) and Canada in March 2010.
The release of "Book Of Dowth" is due in a few weeks; thus, SUIDAKRA will perform a lot of live shows in 2011. First, the band will go back to Spain for a small tour with Equilibrium in March 2010 before taking part in a major European tour in March/April with Onslaught and Debauchery! Some summer festival appearances will be announced in the near future as well as a 10-day tour in Russia and Ukraine in October. Of course their North American fans will also experience their share of Celtic metal when SUIDAKRA return in the 2nd half of 2011 to summon epic verses from the "Book Of Dowth"!